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FAST Logistics Group called on APEC economies to support small and medium enterprises in adopting green logistics
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CEO for Logistics Manuel Onrejas Jr. urged governments, corporations, and multilateral bodies to adopt a “big brother” approach to support SMEs in transitioning to green logistics
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The logistics firm represented the Philippines at the APEC Workshop on Promoting Green SMEs Logistics Service Providers in Hanoi, Sept. 29-30
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Onrejas emphasized collaboration and partnerships with large companies, government, and multilateral institutions as critical to scaling green logistics
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FAST showcased its inclusive logistics model, enabling SMEs, small trucking firms, and farmers to access professional supply chain solutions
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Onrejas also called for sustained regional cooperation through virtual working groups, pilot initiatives, and knowledge-sharing platforms to scale successful models across economies
FAST Logistics Group called on APEC (Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation) economies to support small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in adopting green logistics, advocating a “big brother” approach led by larger institutions.
Speaking at the APEC Workshop on Promoting Green SMEs Logistics Service Providers Towards Sustainable and Inclusive Growth in Hanoi, held from September 29 to 30, FAST CEO for Logistics Manuel Onrejas Jr. said the shift to green supply chains cannot be achieved by SMEs alone.
“Greening logistics cannot be done in isolation. It will take big brothers – large companies, governments, and multilateral institutions – working together to help small and medium enterprises make the shift,” Onrejas said. “After all, what’s at stake is the survival of our planet, our shared home.”
The logistics firm represented the Philippines at the workshop that was attended by representatives from APEC member economies, including Vietnam, China, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Chinese Taipei.
During two sessions of the event, Onrejas explained how the company’s approach allows small entrepreneurs and farmers to access professional logistics services that are usually reserved for multinational corporations and large conglomerates.
By leveraging FAST’s FMCG logistics expertise, SMEs gain access to proper packaging in stackable boxes, insured shipments, and reliable delivery to resellers and trade partners, Onrejas said.
He added that FAST extends support to small trucking companies through assistance in securing bank loans, discounts on fuel and tires, and help with regulatory compliance. These partners are integrated into FAST’s transport systems, which include GPS tracking, AI-powered route planning, and a Transport Management System.
Onrejas also reaffirmed the company’s commitment to inclusive growth, citing efforts to create employment opportunities for women drivers, persons with disabilities, and returning overseas Filipino workers across its warehousing and transport network.
FAST Logistics Group reinforced its sustainability agenda during the APEC workshop’s third session, Opportunities, Challenges, and Approaches in Greening the Logistics Sector, where Onrejas addressed the structural challenges of greening supply chains in the Philippines’ archipelagic setting. He cited multimodal transport costs, port congestion, and climate-related disruptions as key barriers, stating that such constraints make long-term resilience through sustainability all the more critical.
He highlighted FAST’s pioneering efforts, including the deployment of the country’s first fully electric trucks, solar-powered charging stations, and renewable-powered warehouses. He also introduced community-based logistics kiosks designed to consolidate SME shipments, reduce empty miles, and extend green logistics solutions to micro-entrepreneurs.
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“These partnerships prove that scaling green logistics is possible,” Onrejas said, referring to FAST’s collaborations with major corporations to build a renewable-powered mega distribution center and roll out electric vehicles and charging infrastructure. “But SMEs need the support of bigger players and institutions to overcome barriers like high upfront costs and limited demand for green solutions.”
FAST has also partnered with government agencies, notably the Department of Trade and Industry’s Supply Chain and Logistics Group, to strengthen SME capabilities and promote sustainable logistics practices.
The company recently committed to achieving Net Zero by 2050 and launched its ESG Strategy, anchored on four pillars: customer welfare, workplace empowerment, transition to a low-carbon economy, and strong governance.
Concluding his presentation, Onrejas urged APEC economies to maintain momentum through virtual working groups, pilot projects, and knowledge-sharing platforms that can replicate successful models across the region.
“It truly takes a village to green SME logistics,” he said. “With APEC as a catalyst, we can build sustainable and inclusive supply chains that uplift small businesses while protecting our planet.”
