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Editor's Picks

A reading list, curated by our editors. All original, nuanced stories that we keep coming back to.

When Jeepneys Outlive Their Drivers

The traditional jeepney was made by survivors—it continues to survive, held together by recycled parts that endure for 30 years or longer. But in the name of sustainability, drivers are told to give them an expiration date.

The Barangay That Lives with Plastic

Barangay Potrero in Malabon and its Waste Warriors have managed their plastic crisis—except for the single-use sachets that are designed to be hard to get rid of.

The Eternal Business of Ukay-Ukay

Old clothes in the Philippines remain useful long after their original owner bought them—thrift stores resell them, upcyclers transform them. But is it enough to curb the endless supply?

The Ocean Cleanup cites logistics behind Philippines’ delayed launch—but a familiar funding problem lurks

Despite $121 million in backing, is there enough local support to get the project off the ground?

Why young Filipinos are turning to creativity to navigate climate anxiety

Amid a worsening climate crisis, more young Filipinos are creating their own creative, outdoor communities as an act of resistance and hope.

What LGBTQIA+ community builders want us to know about inclusion

From using lived names to just inviting them to the party, here are some steps any social impact space can integrate.

How the words we choose decide who’s welcome

At a women's networking event, Sustina's resident nonbinary raised a hand and a hard question. The room wasn't quite ready with an answer.

Explainer: Why is the Philippines offering the US-led Pax Silica 4,000 acres of land?

New Clark City is hosting an 'AI hub' under the Pax Silica program, a U.S.-led international coalition.

The Philippines’ second NDC is ‘awaiting scheduling’ as ICJ climate ruling raises the stakes

As one of the world's most climate-vulnerable nations, the Philippines helped push for the ICJ ruling. But its own updated climate targets are still unsubmitted.

The most dangerous place in Asia for environmental defenders, and why we refuse to stop

When we lose an environmental and human rights defender, we lose a version of a better world—one that could have only been possible with them in it.

Can 50,000 seedlings ‘offset’ mass-cutting trees along Quirino Avenue?

Sustainability and environment experts weigh in on the costs and challenges of replanting trees.

What the waters left behind: Inside Gab Mejia’s newest exhibit

In White Water, Filipino photographer Gab Mejia visualizes memory, colonial cartography, and rising seas for FOTO Bali's International Photography Festival 2026.