SNAP expands watershed conservation drive for climate resilience

Insider Spotlight

• SNAP’s watershed programs have rehabilitated, restored, reforested, and enriched more than 134 hectares in Ifugao under its PUNLA initiative
• The company has planted 487,775 seedlings across 408.34 hectares since 2008, with an average survival rate of 91 percent
• World Environment Day activities included reservoir cleanups in Isabela and eco-walks in Benguet to promote environmental stewardship
  
  
  

SN Aboitiz Power Group (SNAP) is strengthening its environmental conservation efforts through watershed management, reforestation, forest protection, and community-based sustainability programs as part of its observance of World Environment Day. 

The renewable energy producer said these initiatives support climate resilience and sustainable development in its host communities.

A key component of the company’s environmental strategy is the Partnership in Uplifting Upland Natural Resources Livelihoods and Assets (PUNLA), an Upper Magat Watershed Management Program focused on Ifugao Province. 

The initiative supports enrichment planting, reforestation, and the restoration of the Ifugao Rice Terraces while encouraging local participation in watershed protection and livelihood activities.

Why it matters

Healthy watersheds play a critical role in sustaining hydroelectric power generation, reducing soil erosion, protecting biodiversity, and strengthening communities against climate-related risks. 

For power producers with hydro assets, watershed protection is directly linked to long-term operational sustainability.

Under PUNLA, SNAP has rehabilitated and restored 34.3 hectares in Mayoyao and Banaue, reforested and enriched 100.44 hectares in Banaue and Hungduan, and established five hectares of agroforestry farms in Lagawe. 

The company said these efforts have helped mitigate an estimated 6,722 tons of soil erosion across Ifugao Province.

The bigger picture

SNAP-Benguet and the National Power Corporation are also implementing a Technical Cooperation Agreement aimed at forest fire prevention and suppression. 

The program maintains at least 13 kilometers of greenbelt areas and 12 kilometers of firebreaks annually while providing support and equipment to community volunteers engaged in wildfire response activities.

The company likewise participates in the Adopt-a-Watershed Program and the Aboitiz Group’s A-PARK agroforestry and reforestation initiative. As of May 31, 2026, SNAP had planted 487,775 seedlings across 408.34 hectares within its watershed areas from 2008 to 2025, achieving an average survival rate of 91 percent.

To mark this year’s World Environment Day, themed “Now for Climate,” SNAP-Magat conducted reservoir cleanup drives in Ramon, Isabela, while SNAP-Benguet employees joined Hug-a-Tree eco-walk activities in Itogon and Bokod, Benguet. 

The company said the activities reflect its long-term commitment to building greener, safer, and more resilient communities. —Vanessa Hidalgo| Ed: Corrie S. Narisma