The award, presented annually by the Stewardship Asia Centre in Singapore, honors organizations demonstrating exemplary environmental stewardship across the Asia-Pacific, it said in a statement issued Nov. 4, 2024.
Located in Barangay Pamarawan, Malolos, Bulacan, the Saribuhay sa Dampalit program spans a 47-hectare biodiversity offset site and is the first of its kind in the Philippines.
San Miguel’s program aims to balance the environmental impact of infrastructure projects, such as the New Manila International Airport, by creating a sustainable model for future development initiatives.
The program highlights San Miguel’s commitment to integrating environmental preservation into economic projects.
“We are honored to receive this recognition for our efforts in creating functional habitats for migratory shorebirds,” San Miguel Aerocity Inc. project director Cecile Ang said. “This award highlights San Miguel’s unwavering commitment to biodiversity protection while advancing critical infrastructure for the Philippines.”
Saribuhay sa Dampalit is a key element of the conglomerate’s pledge to achieve “No Net Loss” and even “Net Gain” in biodiversity.
The offset site has become an essential stopover for migratory birds on the East Asian-Australasian Flyway, helping to sustain biodiversity while also benefiting local communities through flood mitigation and livelihood opportunities.
“This program sets a new benchmark for responsible infrastructure development,” Ang added, emphasizing that the initiative illustrates how economic progress can align with environmental stewardship.
Looking ahead, San Miguel aims to expand Saribuhay sa Dampalit to other provinces near Northern Manila Bay, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable growth and nation-building.
