Coca-Cola Strengthens Recycling Infrastructure with Expanded ‘Tapon to Ipon’ Program

Coca-Cola Philippines continues to scale its sustainability initiatives by expanding the ‘Tapon to Ipon’ PET bottle collection program.

This nationwide initiative is a major move toward enhancing plastic bottle recovery and strengthening local recycling infrastructure across the country.

What is the Tapon to Ipon Program?

Initially launched in 2021 by Coca-Cola Europacific Aboitiz Philippines (CCEAP), formerly known as Coca-Cola Beverages Philippines Inc. (CCBPI), Tapon to Ipon aims to encourage communities to recycle PET plastic bottles—regardless of brand—through accessible collection hubs. In exchange, consumers can earn exciting Coca-Cola rewards.

Nationwide Expansion: Over 6,000 Collection Hubs in Operation

With the recent consolidation of Coca-Cola’s recycling initiatives, including the Tindahan Extra Mile (TEM) program, Tapon to Ipon now operates over 6,000 drop-off points nationwide. This expansion makes recycling easier and more accessible for communities, including in sari-sari stores, carinderias, and local events like the Sinulog Festival and Dinagyang Festival.

The relaunch was marked by a community activation event on April 29, 2025, at Terra 28th in Bonifacio Global City (BGC). Attendees participated in fun recycling-themed activities like the “Dunk, Not Junk” game, where they won Coca-Cola merchandise and products in exchange for used PET bottles.

A Collective Push for a Greener Philippines

“Coca-Cola Philippines continues to innovate and improve our recycling systems to help address plastic waste,” said Tony del Rosario, President of Coca-Cola Philippines.

“By expanding Tapon to Ipon, we are reinforcing our commitment to sustainable practices and inclusive community partnerships.”

Gareth McGeown, CEO and President of CCEAP, emphasized that the expansion reflects a shared mission to “empower communities and create a more sustainable future for Filipinos.”

PETValue Philippines: Closing the Loop in Plastic Recycling

All collected bottles are sent to PETValue Philippines, the country’s first food-grade bottle-to-bottle recycling facility based in General Trias, Cavite. A joint venture between CCEAP and Indorama Ventures, the facility turns post-consumer PET bottles into new food-grade recycled PET (rPET) bottles, supporting Coca-Cola’s vision of a World Without Waste.

Partnering with Sari-Sari Stores and Carinderias for Local Impact

A key feature of the program’s expansion is its partnership with micro-retailers. Through a collaboration with Basic Environmental Systems and Technologies, Inc. (BEST) and the Philippine Association of Stores and Carinderia Owners (PASCO), sari-sari store and carinderia owners now serve as localized recycling hubs.

Participants can collect PET bottles from their communities and earn rewards via the bXTRA app, ranging from cash to Coca-Cola products, based on the volume of recyclables they collect.

Recognized and Award-Winning Sustainability Program

Tapon to Ipon has reached over 170 cities and municipalities across the Philippines. Its impactful approach to environmental responsibility has earned recognition from prestigious platforms like:

FMCG Asia Awards
Quill Awards
Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards

These accolades reflect Coca-Cola’s strong commitment to corporate sustainability and responsible waste management.

How to Participate

Joining the Tapon to Ipon initiative is simple:

Collect used PET bottles (any brand)
Visit your nearest Tapon to Ipon collection hub
Exchange bottles for exciting Coca-Cola rewards

Find a collection point near you:

https://www.coca-cola.com/ph/en/brands/coca-cola/sustainability

With the expanded Tapon to Ipon program, Coca-Cola Philippines is making recycling more inclusive, rewarding, and community-driven. By working closely with local businesses, government units, and everyday consumers, the company is playing a vital role in building a more sustainable and waste-free future for the Philippines.