Construction and demolition (C&D) waste management remains a critical challenge in large-scale infrastructure projects, particularly in developing countries. The North–South Commuter Railway (NSCR) Phase 1 Project in Bulacan generates substantial waste streams, yet enforcement of Republic Act 9003 and related policies remains fragmented. This study applies the PESTLE framework to analyze barriers and propose strategies for sustainable waste management in railway megaprojects. A mixed-methods design was employed, integrating quantitative surveys and qualitative insights from stakeholders including government agencies, contractors, and consultants. The questionnaire assessed awareness, concern, and implementation of waste management practices across political, economic, social, technological, legal, and environmental dimensions. Data were analyzed to identify relationships among stakeholder perceptions and implementation levels. Findings revealed systemic barriers across all PESTLE dimensions. Political and legal gaps included weak enforcement and overlapping mandates, while economic constraints centered on high costs and limited markets for recycled materials. Social barriers involved low awareness and resistance to change, and technological limitations included inadequate segregation facilities and lack of digital monitoring systems. Environmental pressures, such as landfill scarcity and disaster vulnerability in Bulacan, compounded these challenges. Despite these barriers, stakeholders expressed readiness to adopt digital tools and capacity building initiatives. The study underscores the need for broader stakeholder inclusion, implementation-oriented training, and adoption of digital monitoring platforms to enhance transparency and accountability. Expanding the scope to future phases of the NSCR and other infrastructure projects will provide comparative insights. By integrating institutional coordination, financial incentives, and technological innovation, sustainable C&D waste management can be advanced in Philippine railway projects.

Keywords: construction waste management, demolition waste, PESTLE framework, railway infrastructure,sustainability, digital monitoring