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CASA project recognized by the Philippines’ Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) for contributions to sustainable environmental management
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Results of Korea–ASEAN cooperation to improve air quality and strengthen environmental sustainability across ASEAN
The CASA (Clean Air for Sustainable ASEAN) Project Team at Seoul National University (SNU), led by Professor Lee Ki-Young, has received the Philippines’ most prestigious partnership award in recognition of its contributions to environmental sustainability. The honor reflects the achievements of the CASA project, supported by the ASEAN-ROK Cooperation Fund (also referred to as the ASEAN–ROK Cooperation Fund, AKCF), through which the Republic of Korea provides annual support to ASEAN.
According to SNU’s Graduate School of Public Health CASA team, the award was presented on February 26 at the “2026 EMB Environmental Sustainability Partners Awards” ceremony held at the Luxent Hotel in Quezon City, Philippines. The award, conferred by the Philippines’ Environmental Management Bureau (EMB), is titled “Gawad Kabalikat sa Kapaligiran,” which conveys the meaning of “Partner of the Environment.”
This recognition is granted to key partners who demonstrate dedication and innovative efforts in addressing complex environmental challenges. The EMB’s decision to honor the CASA project signifies the Philippine government’s official acknowledgment that the CASA (Clean Air for Sustainable ASEAN) initiative—implemented on the foundation of the ASEAN–ROK Cooperation Fund—has made tangible contributions to air pollution policy development and the establishment of air quality management systems in ASEAN member states, including the Philippines.
Over the course of the project, the CASA team has worked closely with the EMB to strengthen the country’s Air Quality Monitoring System (AQMS), provide support for satellite data analysis, and lead efforts to develop ASEAN-wide air quality management strategies and implementation guidelines. These activities have been evaluated as reinforcing Korea–ASEAN partnerships and demonstrating transformative capacity to advance environmental health across the region.
Professor Lee, who attended the ceremony, said the award was made possible by the strong support of the Korea–ASEAN cooperation fund and the collective efforts of partners working together toward cleaner air in ASEAN. He added that the CASA project will continue to serve as a flagship Korea–ASEAN cooperation initiative, and that the team will do its utmost to help ASEAN countries—including the Philippines—build long-term capacity for sustainable air quality management.
The CASA team is currently continuing international cooperation activities, including the development of an online platform and policy consulting to support air quality improvements across ASEAN. With this award, expectations are rising that the standing and visibility of Korea–ASEAN environmental cooperation will be further strengthened.
