“More than safeguarding the last remaining forests, we at Alsons Power are committed to bringing our forests back to life,” Antonio Miguel B. Alcantara, CEO of Alsons Power, said in a statement.
The company’s commitment to sustainability is embodied in the Watershed Enhancement Project (WEP), a reforestation and livelihood initiative launched in 2018 through its Maasim-based subsidiaries, Sarangani Energy Corp. (SEC) and Siguil Hydro Power Corp. (SHPC), in partnership with the Conrado & Ladislawa Alcantara Foundation Inc. (CLAFI).
Watershed rehabilitation
WEP centers on the rehabilitation of the Siguil River Watershed, a critical river system that flows between Sarangani and South Cotabato provinces. The watershed supports biodiversity, agriculture, and local livelihoods, making its restoration vital to both ecological balance and economic resilience.
In observance of Philippine Environment Month this June, Alsons Power reaffirmed its pledge to sustainability. “Each tree we plant is a step toward a greener future; a testament to Alsons Power’s deep-rooted commitment to sustainability and stewardship,” Alcantara said.
The WEP employs assisted natural regeneration (ANR), enrichment planting, agroforestry, and Sloping Agricultural Land Technology (SALT) to bolster reforestation while enhancing community livelihoods.
Enrichment planting, agroforestry
As of the first quarter of 2025, the project has planted 71,523 trees, comprising 36,337 agroforestry species and 35,186 native reforestation species. Notably, the effort has achieved an impressive 99 percent seedling survival rate.
More than just numbers, the project emphasizes community empowerment. By training and supporting local farmers and Indigenous Peoples (IPs), Alsons Power has transformed forest stewards into environmental champions and entrepreneurs.
“In the past, we planted coffee but didn’t know how to care for it. Most of it would die,” said IP farmer Manasan Galante. “Now, our farms are thriving. Alsons Power and CLAFI gave us the knowledge and support we needed. God has truly used your efforts to uplift us here in the mountains.”
Since its inception, WEP has included hands-on training for farmers in coffee cultivation — from seedling propagation to post-harvest processing. These skills have boosted crop survival and increased income potential for participants.
‘Powering with care’
The success of these efforts was highlighted during the Coffee Harvest Festival, where 17 partner farms in Sitio Datal Basak yielded 754 kilograms of coffee cherries. Of this, 241 kilograms were classified as premium ripe coffee cherries, thanks to improved techniques in drying, dehulling, and sorting green coffee beans.
“Powering with Care means taking action, restoring the environment and supporting communities, so we can make a lasting impact today and build a better future for generations to come,” Alcantara said.
As Alsons Power continues to expand its energy portfolio, including renewable ventures like hydropower, it remains firmly rooted in its brand promise: “We Power with Care.” Through WEP and similar initiatives, the company seeks to ensure that people, nature, and industry grow together — sustainably and inclusively.
In a world seeking cleaner energy and climate resilience, Alsons Power offers a model that honors both progress and the planet. —Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
