Eco-Ikot Mobile App Now Available: Smarter Waste Management for Communities

Communities Organized for Resource Allocation (CORA), a non-profit group focused on sustainability, has officially launched the Eco-Ikot Center (EIC) Mobile App, a first-of-its-kind digital platform that makes waste diversion smarter, simpler, and more rewarding.

The launch took place on August 29, 2025, at Robinsons Manila, in partnership with Robinsons Malls and Robinsons Supermarket Corp. This milestone builds on CORA’s Eco-Ikot Center program, which has been driving waste reduction and climate action in communities with the support of the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), and the Our Sea of East Asia Network (OSEAN).

A Digital Push for Waste Management
The new app makes recycling easier by digitizing the way recyclables are collected and tracked. It introduces a points-based system where users can exchange recyclables for rewards such as e-cash, goods, and livelihood products.

Left to right: Development Academy of the Philippines, GoSolar Philippines, Robinsons Retail Holdings Sustainability Manager Francis Paul Bayan, KOICA Program Manager Choi Subin, CORA Founder and Executive Director Antoinette Taus, Robinsons Manila Mall Manager Kim Chan Sr., Optimind President Wendy Ang and Sales and Marketing Manager Krizia Algenio, and CORA Operations Manager Aiyan Montoya

CORA Founder and Executive Director Antoinette Taus highlighted how technology can empower everyday actions: "Through the Eco Ikot Center Mobile App, we are empowering individuals, schools, businesses and communities to take part in building sustainable cities. By turning over recyclables and tracking their impact through the app, people can realize that small actions—when done collectively—can create meaningful change for our people and the planet."

Partnership and Support
The launch received strong support from both international partners and the private sector. KOICA Deputy Country Director YOO Jiyoung, represented by Program Manager CHOI Subin, praised the initiative for continuing the progress of the Eco-Ikot Sustainable Cities program.

Meanwhile, Kim Chan, Sr. Mall Manager of Robinsons Manila, reaffirmed Robinsons’ commitment to sustainable practices, noting how the collaboration with CORA aligns with their vision of supporting responsible communities.

What the App Can Do
The EIC Mobile App comes with features that make it convenient for users to participate in the circular economy:

• Register and find the nearest Eco-Ikot Centers
• Track recyclables in real time, including PET bottles, plastics, tin cans, sachets, aluminum, paper, and cardboard
• View updated rates and earn points for every recyclable turned over
• Redeem points for e-cash, goods, and livelihood products
• Monitor both individual and community impact in reducing waste

Since its pilot run, Eco-Ikot Centers have already diverted more than 173 metric tons of recyclables, preventing waste from ending up in landfills and oceans.

Building Sustainable Cities Together
Launched in 2023, the Eco-Ikot Sustainable Cities program has trained women leaders in waste management, worked with schools to promote recycling, and partnered with local recyclers and businesses to expand waste reduction solutions.

The app, developed with Optimind Solutions, is designed to be user-friendly and scalable, allowing thousands of communities across Metro Manila and beyond to join the movement.

CORA is inviting households, schools, businesses, and local governments to integrate the EIC Mobile App into their sustainability programs. The app is now available for download on Google Play and the  Apple App Store.

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