First Gen, UPLB team up to drive innovation and community resilience

January 27, 2025
8:39AM PHT

First Gen Corp. and the University of the Philippines-Los Baños (UPLB) have launched a transformative partnership aimed at driving innovation, sustainability, and community resilience through research and development initiatives.

On Jan. 15, 2025, officials from First Gen and UPLB signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) at the UPLB campus in Laguna, formalizing their commitment to collaborative efforts. 

The MOA outlines various initiatives, including research and development, technology transfer, training programs, and community-based projects, that align with global sustainability goals.

UPLB Chancellor Dr. Jose V. Camacho, Jr. (second from left, seated) and First Gen VP Shirley H. Cruz (third from left, seated) signed the MOA establishing the landmark partnership between UPLB and the Lopez-led clean energy company.  UPLB Technology Transfer and Business Development Office director Emil John C. Cabrera (extreme left, seated) and First Gen senior manager Janice O. Dugan (extreme right, seated) served as witnesses to the MOA signing. Also in photo are other officials and employees of both UPLB and First Gen./ Photo from First Gen

Seaweed farming

This partnership leverages UPLB’s expertise in agriculture and research alongside First Gen’s leadership in renewable energy to benefit local communities and promote sustainable development. 

Notably, a key project focuses on advancing seaweed farming in the coastal communities of Camarines Sur, where FP Island Energy Corp., a subsidiary of First Philippine Holdings and a sister company of First Gen, operates a microgrid system. 

By combining UPLB’s cutting-edge technology with First Gen’s innovative energy solutions, the initiative aims to empower these communities and strengthen their resilience.

Sustainable growth

“This partnership is important because it opens a lot of doors of opportunity. It’s a platform for us to work together toward a future-proof and future-ready UPLB,” said UPLB Chancellor Dr. Jose V. Camacho Jr.

First Gen vice president Shirley H. Cruz emphasized the significance of the collaboration, stating, “At First Gen, corporate social responsibility is central to who we are. This partnership reflects our commitment to delivering impactful initiatives that address local needs and contribute to global sustainability.”

As the Philippines’ largest renewable energy company, First Gen continues to pioneer clean energy solutions with its 3,668 MW capacity from renewable and natural gas power plants. Together with UPLB, it aims to foster innovation and sustainable growth for a brighter future. —Ed: CSN

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