The workshop brought together APEC member economies—including Viet Nam, China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Chinese Taipei, the Philippines, and others—to exchange experiences, present case studies, and share strategies on how logistics SMEs can transition to greener practices while maintaining competitiveness in the global supply chain.

During Session 3: Opportunities, Challenges and Approaches in Greening the Logistics Sector, Mr. Onrejas shared the Philippine perspective, noting that as an archipelagic country, the Philippines relies heavily on multimodal transport systems to move goods across islands. Citing government data, he noted that fragmented transport networks, high electricity costs, and climate risks drive logistics costs to around 27.5% of sales—significantly higher than in advanced APEC member economies.

Despite these challenges, FAST Logistics has been actively pioneering sustainability initiatives. Mr. Onrejas highlighted the company’s adoption of electric vehicles, solar-powered charging stations, renewable-powered warehouses, and AI-driven route optimization—measures that have already avoided more than 4.07million kilograms of CO₂ emissions since 2023. FAST also consolidates SME cargo to reduce empty trips, lowering both costs and emissions.

Mr. Onrejas noted that FAST Logistics, as a leader in FMCG logistics, has been collaborating with multinational companies and conglomerates for Green Logistics innovation. He emphasized, however, that SMEs and smaller logistics players face significant barriers to green adoption, particularly high upfront costs and limited customer demand, underscoring the importance of collaboration and business-led innovation.

He further emphasizedthat FAST Logistics has taken the proactive step of targeting Net Zero by 2050and joining the Net Zero Carbon Alliance to accelerate innovation, even in theabsence of a nationwide net zero target. With over two billion square meters ofwarehouse space and more than 3,100 trucks, the company recognizes the scale ofthe challenge but remains committed to pioneer innovation and efficiency.

“Sustainability is not a burden, it is an opportunity to innovate and build resilience,” said Mr. Onrejas. “FAST Logistics believes that Filipino SMEs can lead thegreen transition, not by waiting for change, but by driving it. Our commitmentto Net Zero by 2050 is not just a corporate goal; it is our promise to thecommunities we serve and to the future generations who will inherit the supplychains we build today,” he added.