Insider Spotlight
The companies formalized the partnership during a signing ceremony held at Aboitiz Construction’s headquarters in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City on May 26.
The collaboration, supported by Aboitiz Foundation Inc., will run through 2029 and focuses on enriching mangrove areas in Barangay San Isidro.
The project aims to produce, plant, and nurture 1,000 mangrove seedlings covering an estimated 0.10 hectares of mangrove forest while strengthening the capabilities of local fisherfolk groups.
Why it matters
Mangroves play a critical role in protecting coastal communities from erosion and storm surges while serving as breeding grounds for marine life. Their restoration has become a key component of climate resilience and biodiversity conservation programs across the Philippines.
Under the initiative, 25 members of the San Isidro Farmers and Fishermen Association (SIFFA) will undergo training in mangrove enrichment, plantation design, nursery establishment, seedling production, site preparation, and maintenance.
The project will also provide income opportunities through seedling production purchases and paid work related to site preparation, planting, and plantation maintenance, according to a company release.
“We are proud to partner again with the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation for this Mangrove Forest Enhancement Project. It not only preserves vital ecosystems but also supports local livelihoods. By engaging our teams and community partners, we aim to create a lasting, positive impact for both the environment and the people of San Fernando,” Aboitiz Construction sr. AVP for business transformation Karmine Andrea Ching said.
The bigger picture
The partners are targeting a minimum survival rate of 85 percent for planted seedlings before project turnover, supported by continuous monitoring, maintenance, and community participation.
“As RAFI celebrates 60 years, it’s always our pleasure to come back to the group that started this journey with us and has also evolved with us. One to Tree used to be plain tree growing or a compliance-driven activity, but the program has grown to include communities and ensure they are part of the impact,” Ramon Aboitiz Foundation CEO and president Amaya Cristina Fansler said.
The latest initiative builds on earlier sustainability collaborations between the two organizations. In 2024, Aboitiz Construction signed a three-year partnership with the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation to plant 1,455 seedlings in Lian, Batangas as part of its broader environmental stewardship program. —Princess Daisy C. Ominga| Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
