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Pantabangan Dam may hit critical level by end-April
The water level in Pantabangan Dam in Nueva Ecija may reach critical level by the end of April, affecting irrigation supply, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration......»»
Ecija onion farmers get storage facilities
The Department of Agriculture has turned over two onion cold storage facilities to the DA-Central Luzon office in Nueva Ecija......»»
Aboitiz Power extends power deal with Max’s
Aboitiz Power Corp. extended its deal to supply 1,200 kilowatts of power to the food manufacturing and distribution facility of NoBia Inc., the commissary of the Max’s Group, for the next four years. The company said on Thursday that the renewed retail supply partnership with NoBia, which started in November 2021, is part of its thrust to provide partners with affordable access to dependable power via tailor-fit energy solutions. “No Bia Inc.’s dedication to evolving its menu offerings and enhancing its capabilities illustrates its unwavering commitment to leading the way in service excellence in food manufacturing and distribution. It is AboitizPower’s privilege to support that with clean and reliable energy, it can and will deliver,” AboitizPower retail head James Byron Yu said. The NoBia facility in Carmona, Cavite produces almost 2,000 metric tons of food each month, supporting over 300 retail partner stores, as well as a local network of more than 600 stores in the country. Tie-up mirrors brand values For NoBia Inc. president Cristina Garcia, the tie-up with AboitizPower “mirrors its brand values.” “Leveraging on AboitizPower’s renewable energy not only allows us to serve countless Filipino individuals with our culinary offerings but also adds significant value to the Max’s Group’s mission,” Garcia said. Moving forward, AboitizPower said it will continue to invest in renewables en route to reaching at least 4,600 megawatts, or 50 percent of its generation portfolio by the next decade. Currently, close to 1,000 MW of AboitizPower renewable energy projects — including wind and solar farms and more geothermal capacities — are in the pipeline. The post Aboitiz Power extends power deal with Max’s appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
LNG a vital transition fuel, says Aboitiz Power
Industry players and government regulators should harness cost-effective liquefied natural gas or LNG as the so-called "transition fuel" in the near term to gradually displace coal and complement the variability of renewable energy. Speaking at a recent energy forum, Aboitiz Power Corp. Chief Finance Officer Liza Montelibano reiterated that the transition to clean energy should be gradual and well thought out. Otherwise, it will result in higher power prices. Montelibano pointed out that utilizing the present supply of natural gas, which is relatively cleaner than burning coal, to buy time and keep the grid stable while renewable and low-carbon technologies are being developed. “The realistic pace to do transition is underscored by the available technology that allows you to do it reliably and affordably. Given what is available today, we believe what is realistic is a practical and gradual approach that will allow for technology development,” Montelibano said. Locally, the Malampaya project is the only local facility that uses indigenous natural gas to reduce the country's oil imports. It has been powering up to 20 percent of Luzon’s total electricity requirements. It supplies natural gas to power four power generation plants in Batangas with a combined capacity of 2,011 megawatts or MW. Meanwhile, several projects, including First Gen Corp.'s integrated LNG and regasification terminal in Batangas province, are underway to easily bring in low-cost LNG from abroad into the country. The LNG facilities are a significant source of fuel diversification to complement the efforts of the Malampaya consortium to optimize the sustainability of the remaining indigenous gas in the Malampaya-Camago reservoir. The government set the target of a 35 percent share of renewable energy in the country’s energy mix by 2035 and increased it further to 50 percent by 2040. However, it is still notable that despite an aggressive stance on clean energy utilization, the Philippines still heavily relies on coal. AboitizPower, which presently has the largest and most diversified local renewable energy platform in terms of installed capacity under its operational control, aims to support the government's goal by investing P190 billion until 2030 to have a portfolio of 9,200 MW evenly split between renewable energy and thermal sources. Close to 1,000 MW of renewable energy projects — including wind and solar farms and more geothermal capacities — are currently in the company's pipeline. The post LNG a vital transition fuel, says Aboitiz Power appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
ARI in troika to build Visayas wind project
Aboitiz Renewables Inc. or ARI, the renewable energy arm of Aboitiz Power Corp., Singapore-headquartered Vena Energy, and Cebu-based Vivant Energy Corp., have teamed up to develop, build, and operate a 200-megawatt or MW wind project in the Visayas. The project, dubbed as San Isidro Wind Power Project, will be built in San Isidro, a fourth-class coastal municipality in the Province of Northern Samar. It will be undertaken by the joint venture company that the parties formed called Lihangin Wind Energy Corp. Construction starts Q4 2023 As disclosed in the separate stock reports of ARI and Vivant Energy on Wednesday, which are both publicly listed companies, the wind plant will begin construction within the last quarter of the year. It is scheduled to be completed by early 2025. “We are excited to partner with Vena Energy and Vivant Energy so that together, we can contribute to the Philippines’ clean energy aspirations. This undertaking demonstrates ARI’s progress in growing its renewable energy capacity to 4,600 MW,” ARI president and chief operating officer James Arnold Villaroman. “Each of these investments is an important step to achieving a 50:50 balance in our renewable and thermal portfolios. We are very excited about these opportunities to contribute to the country’s energy transition journey,” he added. Meanwhile, Emil Andre Garcia, president and COO of Vivant Energy, reiterated that their undertaking will “bring us closer to the goal to expand our RE portfolio to 30 percent by 2030.” “We welcome this opportunity to partner with two leaders in renewable energy development who share our vision of helping the country attain energy security while promoting renewable energy and contributing to countrywide development,” Garcia said. Most diversified AboitizPower presently has the largest and most diversified local renewable energy platform in terms of installed capacity under its operational control. Currently, close to 1,000 MW of renewable energy projects — including wind and solar farms and more geothermal capacities — are in its pipeline. The post ARI in troika to build Visayas wind project appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
AboitizPower buys back shares amid PSE slump
Aboitiz Power Corp., or AboitizPower, purchased 11.407 million of its shares as part of its buy-back program as of the 19 September closing. The company said the move was needed to “create further shareholder value” as its current share price range fails to reflect the value of the company. As the shares are undervalued due to the poor state of the market, the buyback is expected to inspire investors to look at the real value of the shares. “Even with this stock buy-back program, there is no intention to delist from the PSE, but merely to reward our existing shareholders with a larger share of a brighter future,” the company said. The Philippine Stock Exchange or PSE, however, announced AboitizPower, the listed investment arm of the Aboitiz Group for energy-related ventures, will be dropped from the index of bellwether shares by next week. In a memorandum dated 20 September, PSE president Ramon Monzon confirmed AboitizPower’s removal from the index will be effective starting 26 September. This developed even after AboitizPower committed not to exit the index amid speculations that the company may opt to delist after its public float fell below the required threshold. Based on the new rules governing the PSE, all companies in the local bourse indices are required to maintain a minimum public float level of 20 percent. AboitizPower chief executive officer Emmanuel Rubio also conveyed that the company, which accounts for one out of every five megawatts or MW of installed capacity in the Philippines, is still in a strong position to create long-term shareholder value. “With a pipeline of about 1,000 MW of new renewable energy capacity, we are well on our way to contributing an additional 3,700 MW of clean electricity,” Rubio said. During the first half of the year, the company reported that it logged a P17.8-billion net income, 79 percent higher than the P10 billion recorded in the same period a year ago. During the second quarter alone, the company’s net income reached P10.3 billion, 46 percent higher than last year’s P7 billion. AboitizPower’s generation and retail supply businesses recorded earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization or EBITDA of P30.2 billion during the first six months. The EBITDA, used to measure a company’s financial health and ability to generate cash, was 31 percent higher than the P23.1 billion recorded in the same period last year due to “fresh contributions” from GNPower Dinginin. From the start of the year until the end of June, AboitizPower said its capacity sold increased by 25 percent to 4,718 MW from 3,785 MW a year ago. The post AboitizPower buys back shares amid PSE slump appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Aboitiz unit applies SMR, G2G focus
Aboitiz Power Corp., the investment arm of the Aboitiz Group for energy-related investments, is actively pushing for more government-to-government or G2G agreements to strengthen the country’s exploration as a key enabler of energy security. Speaking at an energy forum spearheaded by the Meralco Power Academy on Monday, AboitizPower President and CEO Emmanuel Rubio said such agreements can potentially boost the country’s energy development. “We actively engage with the government to initiate discussions and develop necessary protocols. We also recognize the importance of establishing country-to-country agreements for our energy initiatives,” Rubio said. Energy initiatives pushed “Our active participation in these discussions aims to identify viable options to ensure a continuous supply of reliable energy as our nation grows and thrives,” he added. He pointed out that the industry should be open to adopting “cutting-edge, clean, and zero-emissions technologies” to generate a cleaner power supply that would cater to the needs of the consumers. “In this context, we are actively exploring Small Modular Reactors, or SMR, for quick capacity deployment and flexibility when they become commercially viable and can be deployed in the country,” he said. Unlike other power sources, SMRs can deliver affordable electricity supply in the country, especially during summer months when demand is historically higher. For instance, Rubio noted that one megawatt or MW of solar installed capacity typically requires 1.2 hectares of land. However, he said such a requirement could pose a potential downside in the country, where the average farmer holds just 1.29 hectares of land. Rubio added that pursuing clean energy goals should not lead to potential social issues. The Philippines has a vast potential for power development. With the sector’s opening for foreign investors, even the Department of Energy or DoE said it is confident it can meet its objective of increasing the contribution of clean energy in our power generation mix by 35 percent by 2030 and 50 percent by 2040. To complement this, AboitizPower also aims to expand its portfolio to support this goal by investing P190 billion until 2030 to have a portfolio of 9,200 MW evenly split between renewable energy and thermal sources. The post Aboitiz unit applies SMR, G2G focus appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Aboitiz rolling out largest solar project
To further expand its local footprint, Aboitiz Power Corp. will build two new solar facilities in Zambales and Negros Occidental this year, one of which will be the company’s largest solar venture to date. AboitizPower president and CEO Emmanuel Rubio confirmed through a press statement on Tuesday that the projects, scheduled to start next month, will provide the company with an additional 3,700 megawatts or MW of renewable energy by 2030. AboitizPower, through its Aboitiz Renewables Inc. or ARI, will begin building the 211 megawatts or MW solar power project in Olongapo, Zambales in September. Operation starts September The project is scheduled to be commercially operational by September 2025 to provide electricity through the Castillejos substation. On the other hand, the 173 MW solar power project in Calatrava, Negros Occidental, to start also in September, is planned to export electricity to the grid via the Calatrava substation as soon as December 2024. It will be undertaken by SUMEC Complete Equipment and Engineering Co. Ltd., the same company currently completing the 159 MW Laoag Solar Project of PV Sinag Inc. With these new projects in the pipeline, AboitizPower will have five solar projects in total, which also includes San Carlos Sun Power Inc. in Negros Occidental and the Laoag and Cayanga solar projects in Pangasinan. AboitizPower, the holding company of the Aboitiz Group for its energy-related investments, has a pipeline of close to 1,000 MW of disclosed renewable energy projects. It aims to have a total of 4,600 MW of clean energy and a 50:50 balance between its renewable and thermal capacities. The post Aboitiz rolling out largest solar project appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Aboitiz takes on largest solar project
To further expand its local footprint, Aboitiz Power Corp. will build two new solar facilities in Zambales and Negros Occidental this year, one of which will be its largest solar venture to date. AboitizPower President and CEO Emmanuel Rubio confirmed through a press statement on Tuesday that the projects, scheduled to start next month, will provide the company with an additional 3,700 megawatts or MW of renewable energy by 2030. AboitizPower, through its Aboitiz Renewables Inc. or ARI, will begin building the 211 MW solar power project in Olongapo, Zambales this September — its largest solar project to date. The project is scheduled to be commercially operational by September 2025 to provide electricity through the Castillejos substation. On the other hand, the 173 MW solar power project in Calatrava, Negros Occidental, to start also in September, is planned to export electricity to the grid via the Calatrava substation as soon as December 2024. The Negros project will be undertaken by SUMEC Complete Equipment and Engineering Co., Ltd., the same company currently completing the 159 MW Laoag Solar Project of PV Sinag, Inc. With these new projects in the pipeline, AboitizPower will have five solar projects in total, which also includes San Carlos Sun Power Inc. in Negros Occidental and the Laoag and Cayanga solar projects in Pangasinan. AboitizPower, the holding company of the Aboitiz Group for its energy-related investments, has a pipeline of close to 1,000 MW of disclosed renewable energy projects. It aims to have a total of 4,600 MW of clean energy and a 50:50 balance between its renewable and thermal capacities. The post Aboitiz takes on largest solar project appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Safer, stronger communities with AboitizPower’s mangrove projects
As communities feel the effects of a warming world, the importance of propagating and protecting mangroves stand out in the efforts to mitigate carbon emissions buildup. While already being able to sequester three to five times more carbon than forest trees, mangroves also do a lot more, serving as a habitat for various species in coastal ecosystems — hence, sustaining the livelihoods of fisherfolk — and as a protector of vulnerable communities against erosion and storm surges. In celebration of the International Day for Conservation of Mangroves, Aboitiz Power Corporation recognizes the tremendous importance of mangroves, as well as the exemplary efforts of its business units and stakeholders in helping conserve and restore mangrove forests in their communities. Quarterly collaborations In Maco, Davao de Oro, AboitizPower subsidiary Therma Marine, Inc. celebrated Philippine Environmental Month last June with another one of its quarterly collaborations with the public sector and civil society organizations in cleaning the coast and planting mangroves within its vicinity. “The first mangrove tree planting and clean-up drive took place in 2019, and since then, it has become a recurring event for TMI,” said TMI safety, health and environment supervisor Chrisyl Garcia. “By organizing these activities on a regular basis, TMI is able to contribute to the restoration of mangrove habitats and the overall well-being of coastal ecosystems.” “By conducting these events, TMI aims to raise awareness about the importance of mangroves and engage community members, volunteers, and employees in hands-on conservation efforts. The initiative has likely fostered a sense of environmental responsibility among participants,” she added. On that single June day, a total of 110 kilograms of residual waste were collected, while 550 mangrove seedlings were planted. Over the years, TMI's mangrove-planting and clean-up drive has consistently gained momentum, with increased participation from volunteers from the Diocese of Maco, the Bureau of Fire Protection, the Philippine National Police, the 1001st Brigade, the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office, the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office and local private company Gas Island Petroleum Corp. “These stakeholders have played a crucial role in leading discussions on how to effectively plant the mangroves. Their expertise and experience have been invaluable in guiding the participants on the proper techniques and methods of planting mangrove saplings. They share their knowledge about the ideal planting locations, appropriate species selection, and necessary care and maintenance practices for the newly planted mangroves,” Garcia said. This collaboration has enhanced the success and impact of TMI's mangrove-planting and clean-up drives, ensuring that the activities are conducted in a well-informed and efficient manner. “Overall, the consistent involvement of volunteers and leaders in discussing mangrove planting techniques underscores the collective effort and shared commitment towards the preservation and restoration of mangrove ecosystems,” said Garcia. [caption id="attachment_162206" align="aligncenter" width="1536"] Volunteers from public, private and civil society organizations work together at TMI, not just in planting mangroves, but also in fostering strong partnerships and creating a platform for knowledge exchange and shared responsibility in mangrove conservation.[/caption] Adopt-a-mangrove Meanwhile, in Mariveles, Bataan, GNPower Mariveles Energy Center Ltd. Co. kickstarted its own efforts in mangrove conservation by signing a memorandum of agreement with development partners for an estimated P7-million “5 Hectares Orani Mangrove Adoption and Protection Project” that is expected to start implementation in September. Under the MOA, GMEC partnered with the provincial government of Bataan, the municipality of Orani, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and the Tubo-tubo Fisherfolks Association to improve the existing conditions of the mangrove areas in the allotted five hectares for a period of five years, subject to possible renewal. “Through this initiative, we envision to improve the existing conditions of the mangrove areas in the province of Bataan, starting in the municipality of Orani,” said GMEC associate vice president for community relations Arcel Madrid. “Adopting a mangrove site is vital for coal-fired power plant companies like GMEC because mangrove forests play a significant role in mitigating climate change through carbon sequestration.” “With these efforts, GMEC will also help uplift the lives of our community partner, the Tubo-tubo Fisherfolks Association, by providing a sustainable fishing ground and viable alternative livelihood to improve their socio-economic status,” he added. In the longer run, GMEC looks forward to more mangrove site adoption projects and other corporate social responsibility endeavors that are aligned with local and national development goals. [caption id="attachment_162207" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] Representatives from GMEC, the Provincial Government of Bataan, the Municipality of Orani, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, and the Tubo-tubo Fisherfolks Association sign an MOA on mangrove adoption and protection.[/caption] Coastal stronghold At the coastal area of Punta Dumalag, Davao, the Aboitiz Cleanergy Park stands as a sanctuary, not just of pawikan (turtles) and rare bird species, but also of mangrove biodiversity. “It’s unbelievable how [the] Aboitiz [Foundation] has developed Punta Dumalag Cleanergy Park to what it is today,” said frequent visitor Cyra Quilaneta of Junior Chamber International Davaoeña Daba-Daba. “The highlight for us [in visiting the park] is the education and experience it provides our members and their guests, especially the youth. We get to appreciate the importance of mangroves by seeing its functions personally — trapping [coastal] trashes and [supporting] turtle hatcheries.” The team at AboitizPower distribution unit Davao Light and Power Co., Inc. spearhead the activities at the Cleanergy Park, which include educating students and guests by hosting tours, as well as assisting them with mangrove-planting. “JCI Davaoeña Daba-Daba, together with JCI Davao, is an organization that supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly #14: Life Below Water. By protecting and restoring mangroves, we contribute to overall sustainable development,” Cyra said. To date, 18,138 mangroves have been planted at the Cleanergy Park. However, several natural and man-made factors have rendered its survival rate at only 30 percent. “While [the] Aboitiz Foundation and its partners have made commendable strides in mangrove protection, the task is far from complete. Mangrove protection requires collective effort to be effective. Mangroves face numerous threats, including habitat loss, climate change impacts, pollution, and unsustainable resource extraction,” Cyra explained. “To ensure the long-term viability of mangrove ecosystems, ongoing efforts are necessary. Continuous awareness, education and action of more groups and organizations is crucial.” “Sustainability remains at the core of AboitizPower and our business units have concretized this through their efforts in caring for mangrove ecosystems and the wider environment,” said AboitizPower president and CEO Manny Rubio. “I commend our team members for helping harness the collective efforts of the company, various partners and host communities in bringing us closer to our aspiration of a better and cleaner tomorrow.” The post Safer, stronger communities with AboitizPower’s mangrove projects appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Aboitiz Power secures 2024 solar supply deal
As part of the ongoing development and integration of renewable energy to sustainably operate their businesses, two units of the Aboitiz Power Corp. have entered a deal with an international provider to secure solar power supply next year. Under the power supply agreement, Nexif Ratch will provide ADVENT and APRI with solar capacity — a move seen to further grow their portfolio of customers from the commercial and industrial markets. The electricity supply will be sourced from the 74-megawatt peak solar project of Nexif Ratch in Calabanga, Camarines Sur once it is completed by the second quarter of 2024. AboitizPower first vice president-Head of Retail James Yu said the deal will help the company address the demand of customers while making renewable energy more accessible. Eye on energy transition “As an energy retailer, we need to address the needs of customers, one of which is their interest in knowing where their power comes from, given how more consumers want to take part in the energy transition,” Yu said. ADVENT’s services include conducting energy audits, offering smart metering solutions, and providing a range of energy efficiency and power quality solutions. APRI, a geothermal energy producer, is also a top energy retailer providing electricity supply to various commercial and industrial customers. As a power generator, APRI delivers clean and renewable baseload power with two facilities in Tiwi, Albay, and the areas of Bay and Calauan, Laguna, and Sto. Tomas, Batangas. Meanwhile, Nexif Ratch is a 51:49 joint venture between Nexif Energy and Ratch Group with assets across Southeast Asia. The post Aboitiz Power secures 2024 solar supply deal appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Reliable power seen via nuke
Tapping the potential of nuclear power, despite being a highly politicized issue, will ramp up affordable electricity supply in the country, especially during summer months when demand is historically higher. However, achieving such a great feat would require close coordination between the public and private stakeholders as emphasized by Aboitiz Group president and chief executive officer Sabin Aboitiz in a recent forum. “We are transitioning from an era powered primarily by fossil fuels to one powered by diverse, cleaner and more sustainable sources of energy, Aboitiz said. “The role of nuclear energy will be pivotal in this journey. It calls for shared learning, private-public partnerships, and imaginative exploration of new technologies and what they can do,” he added. As a member of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation Business Advisory Council or ABAC Philippines and as the Vice Chairperson of the ABAC Sustainable Growth Working Group, Aboitiz is fostering dialogue among industry leaders — enabling them to counsel on policy issues to influence the economic progress of the region. Energy Secretary Raphael Perpertuo Lotilla, during the same forum, assured that his department is closely working with the National Economic and Development Authority, or NEDA on the enabling policy framework for the private sector’s participation in the nuclear power space. “On the part of the Philippines, our Department of Energy is committed to working towards a sustainable future through a technology-agnostic approach to clean alternative energy sources to provide greater energy security, stability, reliability and affordability for the country. This involves diversification of our energy sources to include nuclear power,” Lotilla said. Cheaper bills For his part, AboitizPower President and CEO Emmanuel V. Rubio reiterated that once nuclear power is integrated into the country’s energy mix, electricity rates will be cheaper and more reliable. “It (nuclear) will be a natural portion of the energy mix in the future. I am quite pleased that there is a bill that is looking to be passed addressing a number of the concerns that the private sector has, particularly in permitting and regulations governing the use and operations of nuclear technology,” Rubio said. The government has long explored nuclear power as a viable energy source in line with the global push to reduce carbon emissions. Engaging in nuclear technology calls for the assistance and mentorship of countries that already have knowledge of nuclear energy such as China, Russia, Korea, and France. Former President Rodrigo Duterte signed Executive Order 164 entitled, “Adopting a National Position for a Nuclear Energy Program, and Other Purposes.” The post Reliable power seen via nuke appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Committed to equity, sustainability, opportunity
As the Philippines looks forward to hosting the ABAC 3 (Asean Business Advisory Council) meeting in Cebu, the Aboitiz group acts as a key driver in advancing the shared goals of equity, sustainability and opportunity. The invaluable expertise of Aboitiz president and CEO and ABAC PH member Sabin Aboitiz contribute significantly to the Aboitiz Group’s endeavors and enhance the alignment between ABAC's vision and strategies. Sabin Aboitiz demonstrates the Aboitiz Group's unwavering commitment to sustainability. The focus on exploring the viability of nuclear energy via small modular reactors highlights the Group's interest in advancing clean and efficient energy sources to reduce carbon emissions and mitigate climate change. Additionally, the integration of climate risk scenarios underscores the Group's proactive approach to understanding and addressing the potential risks and challenges posed by climate change. "At Aboitiz, we believe that businesses have a crucial role to play in promoting equity, sustainability and opportunity," Sabin Aboitiz said. "Through our collective efforts, we are committed to making a positive impact on society and fostering a better future for all." Apart from being the pioneer of renewable energy in the Philippines with 1249.17MW of total net sellable renewable energy capacity, AboitizPower, the energy arm of the Aboitiz Group, has shown commitment in promoting equity and inclusion within the company. Testament to that is the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging program, which aims to push the envelope further in creating a safe and welcoming workplace for all. The DEIB program includes the establishment of resource networks for LGBT+, women at work, and “special life” team members, which include single parents and differently-abled workers. [caption id="attachment_149059" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Aboitiz Group drives Philippine development through inclusive growth. In Cebu City, reliable power empowers the town, improving lives and supporting economic growth and trade among APEC economies. Union Bank of the Philippines, led by Aboitiz, promotes financial inclusion through digital banking nationwide.[/caption] Group wide, Aboitiz also implements several initiatives that further celebrate diversity and maintain an inclusive workplace. Among these are information sessions and people stories for Women’s Month, Pride Month and Mental Health Month. The company also boasts a balanced representation of male and female team members, fostering an environment that values gender equality and provides equal opportunities for all. Aboitiz Equity Ventures, AboitizPower and Aboitiz InfraCapital are proud member companies of the Philippine Business Coalition for Women Empowerment, a nonprofit organization advocating workplace gender equality. Aboitiz understands that the overall success of the company also depends on the individual success of the team members. And by creating a culture where everyone feels valued, respected and included, the Aboitiz group makes sure that no one is left behind in the journey toward progress. The Aboitiz-led UnionBank of the Philippines plays an important role in the group’s digitalization path, driven by its dedication to “Tech-Up Pilipinas” and fostering widespread economic growth. Environmental stewardship also lies at the core of Aboitiz’s efforts, as the company actively pursues environmentally responsible practices and solutions that meet the sustainable development goals set by the United Nations. Aboitiz Equity Ventures, the holding company of the Aboitiz Group, has placed sustainability at the forefront of its business strategy. The Aboitiz Cleanergy Park, located at the tip coast of Punta Dumalag, Matina Aplaya, Davao City, is a huge part of Aboitiz's sustainability efforts. The eight-hectare biodiversity park serves as a haven for migratory and local birds, various mangrove species, a pawikan rescue center facility and a nesting ground for critically endangered sea turtles. By partnering with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Aboitiz continues to live out its sustainability efforts by also spearheading the protection and rehabilitation of Boracay Wetland No.4. As a linear urban park, the Boracay Wetland will offer a range of recreational activities that incorporate eco-friendly tourism designs, ensuring minimal environmental impact. Apart from biodiversity conservation, Aboitiz InfraCapital, the infrastructure arm of the Aboitiz Group, advocates better water resource management via corporations like Apo Agua Infrastructura Inc. and LIMA Water Corporation. Apo Agua is building one of the Philippines’ largest private bulk water supply facilities in Davao City, which harnesses sustainable water sources and provides reliable water supply to the growing population of Davao City. The project not only ensures access to clean water but also supports the local economy and promotes environmental stewardship. The post Committed to equity, sustainability, opportunity appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
45 years of generating indigenous, renewable energy
Aboitiz Power Corporation’s subsidiary Hedcor Inc. marked on 25 May 2023 its 45th anniversary. Since 1978, Hedcor has harnessed indigenous and renewable sources of energy for businesses and communities. In the process, it has become one of the country’s top renewable energy companies, specializing in generating electricity from run-of-river hydropower systems. To date, Hedcor has 22 hydropower facilities in Luzon and Mindanao and a solar farm in the Visayas. These 22 hydropower plants — with a cumulative installed capacity of over 280 megawatts — are spread out in Ilocos Sur, Mountain Province, Benguet, Davao City, Davao del Sur and Bukidnon. [caption id="attachment_137854" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Ampohaw Hydro in Sablan, Benguet is one of 22 run-of-river hydropower facilities by Hedcor. It is also its first automated plant, having undergone automation in 1997.[/caption] Since 2021, Hedcor has also operated San Carlos Sun Power Inc. in Negros Occidental with a peak capacity of 59-MW. Hedcor aspires to become the largest RE asset manager in the country and in the ASEAN region by growing its clean energy facilities to at least 40 by 2030. This includes more hydro and solar, as well as having wind power plants. In 2022, Hedcor launched the country’s first National Operations Control Center, which allows for the operation, monitoring and control of 21 Hedcor run-of-river plants and SacaSun all in one location. This results in more efficient operations with less chance of technical errors through centralized real-time data monitoring and analysis, operation and control of equipment, management of the alarm system, and delivery of notifications and plant operation reports. “To remain competitive, we optimize our current assets, people and resources. Adopting new technologies will ensure efficiency, helping to implement operational excellence strategies necessary for future business growth,” Hedcor president and chief operating officer Rolando Pacquiao said. Hedcor also celebrates the rich culture and tradition of the indigenous peoples groups in the communities it operates in. Earlier this year, Hedcor helped renovate the tribal halls of IPs in the province of Bukidnon. It also turned over P10 million worth of infrastructure to IPs in La Trinidad, Benguet. Both projects support the IP groups’ need for venues to host tribe gatherings and meetings, among many other functions. “We know that we are only as strong as the bond we have with our community. We draw our strength from the homes and businesses we’ve sustained with the energy we provide,” Pacquiao said. Since 2000, Hedcor has also planted over 3.5 million trees with an 85 percent survival rate. Moreover, the company is now on its fifth consecutive year of implementing the #NoToSingleUsePlastics campaign, banning the use of single-use plastics in all company events. Segregation and recycling are also observed within Hedcor’s premises. “Building on its 45 years of experience and now as part of the Aboitiz Techglomerate, Hedcor will continue to be integral in AboitizPower’s efforts to service the country’s growing need for sustainable, affordable and reliable electricity,” said AboitizPower president and CEO Emmanuel Rubio. “As the Philippines sets its sights to integrate 35 percent and 50 percent RE in its energy mix by 2030 and 2040, respectively, AboitizPower and Hedcor support it by growing its own diverse clean energy portfolio and investments in innovation and technology,” he added. The post 45 years of generating indigenous, renewable energy appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Why marine turtles are worth more to us alive than dead
If a marine turtle, locally known as pawikan, is allowed to live up to 57 years, how much would be its value? Believe it or not, a whopping P4.80 million can be derived from the endangered species, said the Biodiversity Management Bureau. BMB is a line agency of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, which conducted the study under the Asian Development Bank/Global Environment Facility project on Combating Environmental Organized Crime in the Philippines. In the study, the estimation was based on the marine turtle’s ecological role in coastal and marine ecosystems and on the tourism value it generates: P900,000 and P3.90 million, respectively. “The annual use value of the entire population of the Philippine marine turtle, which is conservatively estimated at 7,294 individuals, ranged between P2.89 billion and P3.19 billion (US$57.88-63.85 million) per year,” the study said. According to the World-Wide Fund for Nature, the economic value of conserving healthy and diverse turtle populations to avoid marine turtle extinctions is more than 50 thousand times greater than the value of harvesting turtles for their meat and shells. Eight species There are only eight species of marine turtles known. Fortunately, five of them can be found in the Philippines, mostly in the Turtle Islands (located along the boundary of Malaysia and the Philippines). These are the Green Sea (scientific name: Chelonia mydas), Hawksbill (Eretmochelys imbricata), Leatherback (Dermocheyls coriacea), Loggerhead (Caretta caretta) and Olive Ridley (Lepidochelys olivacea). The three other species, not found in the Philippines, are the Kemp’s Ridley (Lepidochelys kempi), Flatback (Chelonia depressa) and Black Sea (Chelonia agassizi). All marine turtle species are protected under Republic Act 9147 or the Philippine Wildlife Act. This means it is illegal to collect, possess, buy, sell, import and export marine turtles, their by-products and derivatives. “All of the species found in our country are endangered except for the Hawksbill which is critically endangered,” said Dr. Arnel “AA” Yaptinchay, founder and director of the Marine Wildlife Watch of the Philippines. “The only sure thing is that marine turtle populations are under tremendous threats and if these are not stopped, extinction is imminent.” Aside from their meat, marine turtles are valued for their eggs, which look like ping-pong balls and rounder than chicken eggs. The yellow or yolk of turtle eggs is considered medicinal by some people. Marine turtles are also hunted to make different products. The Hawksbill’s carapace is used to make combs, brush handles, eyeglass frames, buttons, hairclips and jewelry. Pollution is another culprit for its decimation. In the past, marine turtles used to occupy the shallow waters of Manila Bay. But toxic wastes flowing from the Pasig River, ocean-going vessels plying the bay, and the government’s reclamation projects have long driven the marine turtles away. Marine turtles also face danger from the day they are born; they are hunted by monitor lizards or bayawak, dogs and ghost crabs. For every 1,000 hatchlings released in the open sea, only one survives. Dynamite fishing and the use of trawl nets where turtles abound have also threatened the marine turtles. Ditto for the rapid development of beach resorts for the tourism industry as these destroy the nesting beaches of marine turtles. “Unless we seriously take on the task of protecting our much-endangered marine turtles, these ancient creatures will no longer be swimming in our waters,” warned the environmental group Haribon. Marine protected area In Davao City, the Aboitiz Group is trying to protect the endangered marine species. It owns eight hectares in the southeastern portion of the 37-hectare Marine Protected Area located in Punta Dumalag in Matina Aplaya. As part of its corporate responsibility, it converted the area into an eight-hectare ecological preserve, called Cleanergy Park and managed by Davao Light, an AboitizPower subsidiary. In partnership with the regional office of Department of Environment and Natural Resources and the local government of Davao City, the team at the Aboitiz Cleanergy Park established a Pawikan Rescue Center inside the park to conserve and protect the pawikan and their marine habitat. The park is completely wireless and is built entirely using recycled materials. Even at night, lights and lamps are not used, except for flashlights by the roving guards and staff, in order not to disturb or confuse the pawikan’s nesting in the area and other animals that consider the park their home. “We are fully committed to our cause of saving the pawikans,” said Fermin Edillon, the park’s reputation enhancement manager. “We must all carry this responsibility so that our future generations will be able to see them. It can be through small acts such as keeping our coastal areas clean, not littering and having safe practices when fishing. These are very simple but have a large impact on preserving our environment.” Marine turtles are the contemporaries of the dinosaurs. These ancient creatures have been around for about 110 million years. Their natural lifespan is estimated to be from 50 to 100 years. But, like many other creatures, they may soon be gone — if we don’t do enough to save them from extinction. 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AboitizPower’s Hedcor observes 45th year
Aboitiz Power Corporation’s or AboitizPower subsidiary Hedcor Inc. turns 45 years old today, 25 May 2023. Since 1978, Hedcor harnessed indigenous and renewable sources of energy for business and communities. In the process, it has become one of the country’s top renewable energy companies that specializes in electricity generation from hydroelectric power. To date, Hedcor has 22 hydropower facilities in Luzon and Mindanao and a solar farm in the Visayas. These 22 hydropower plants — with a cumulative installed capacity of over 280 megawatts or MW — are spread out in Ilocos Sur, Mountain Province, Benguet, Davao City, Davao del Sur and Bukidnon. Since 2021, Hedcor also operates San Carlos Sun Power Inc. or SacaSun in Negros Occidental with a peak capacity of 59-MW. Hydro sparks initiative Hedcor started when Ernesto Aboitiz found interest in hydro power plants during a visit to Baguio City. This eventually led to Hedcor entering into a 20-year contract to operate the four American-built Asin Hydro Power Plants in Tuba, Benguet, which were fully operational by 1986. The following year, Hedcor also took advantage of Executive Order 215 — which encouraged private entities to venture into power projects — becoming one of the first to explore potential areas for hydropower generation. The name “Hedcor” is derived from Hydro Electric Development Corp. It was the name given to the initial Davao Light and Power Company team which handled Hedcor’s first hydropower plants. In 2005, generating companies North Mini Hydro Corporation and Hedcor entered into a de facto merger with non-asset company Benguet Hydro Corporation, which was later renamed to Hedcor Inc. In 2009, Hedcor became a wholly-owned subsidiary of AboitizPower. Hedcor aspires to become the largest RE asset manager in the country and in the ASEAN region by growing its clean energy facilities to at least 40 by 2030. This includes more hydro and solar, as well as wind power plants. The post AboitizPower’s Hedcor observes 45th year appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Traditional fuel still needed — APC
Despite strong initiatives to drive up renewable energy development in the country, Aboitiz Power Corp. or APC said traditional gas-fired power plants will continue to play a “critical role” in attaining energy security in the country. In a recent television interview, AboitizPower president and CEO Emmanuel Rubio pointed out that these plants provide “dependable energy,”, especially during the summer months when electricity demand is an all-time high. “Existing thermal plants will continue to have a significant role to play in terms of providing reliable and stable power for the country,” Rubio said. “Energy demand has bounced back quite significantly. We are seeing record peaks in the last few weeks given the hot weather,” he said. However, Rubio pointed out that supply and demand margins currently remain thin as the only new investment for base load capacity was GNPower Dinginin Ltd. Co.’s 1,336-megawatt power plant in Mariveles, Bataan. GNPower Dinginin, the biggest coal-fired power plant to be built in the country, operates under the private limited partnership of APC Therma Power, Inc. and AC Energy Holdings Inc. For Rubio, increasing the share of renewable energy in the country’s energy mix should be “calculated and well-managed” and not “urgent and aggressive” due to “potential unintended consequences and standing tradeoffs.” Rubio also noted that small modular reactors can also help the country’s transition to a cleaner energy mix. Small reactors in mix “I believe that small modular reactors will have a role to play in the Philippine energy setting,” he said, adding that APC is in continuous discussion with SMR technology providers, including multinational NuScale Power Corp. “I think the timeline will still be around mid-2035 when we can see this to be operating in the Philippines,” he said. Nuclear energy technology is seen as a source of reliable and clean baseload power, considering the weather-independence of its fuel and its zero CO2 emissions. APC is currently expanding its RE portfolio to 4,600 MW in the next 10 years, resulting in a 50:50 balance between its RE and thermal capacities. The company has a pipeline of more than 1,000 MW of RE projects, including developing wind and solar farms throughout the country, as well as geothermal. APC operates coal plants Pagbilao units 1 and 2 via Therma Luzon, Inc. and Pagbilao Unit 3 via a joint venture with TeaM Energy called the Pagbilao Energy Corp. The post Traditional fuel still needed — APC appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
AboitizPower to finish more projects this year
Aboitiz Power Corp. is preparing to complete this year three renewable energy projects that will help beef up the company’s clean energy portfolio......»»
Teleperformance taps Aboitiz s clean power unit to energize Philippine offices
Cleanergy is AboitizPower’s brand of renewable energy comprised of hydropower, solar power and geothermal power generated from its various power plants......»»
Antipolo City throws support on Ajido
The Antipolo City government led by Mayor Casimiro “Jun” Ynares III will provide support to Antipolo-born swimmer Jamesray Mishael Ajido, who won the country’s lone gold medal in record-breaking fashion at the recent 11th Asian Age-Group Swimming Championships......»»