By Carla Mortel Baricaua
On its second run, the Manila Bulletin Sustainability Forum 2023 promises a two-day live presentation and discussion from Nov. 21-22, 2023, at the School of Statistics Auditorium in the University of Philippines Diliman, in an event that aims to answer the need to initiate and push the sustainability agenda in today’s context.
Under the theme “If not now, when? Addressing the Urgency to go Sustainable,” the forum underlines the need for a more comprehensive reach of awareness and recognizes the best practices by business leaders in the pursuit of adopting sustainability as a social response.
Co-presented by IKEA Philippines, Ayala Corporation, and ACEN Corporation, corporate partners will be given opportunities to present their initiatives, hurdles, and gains in incorporating sustainability into their corporate values and vision.
This year’s impressive lineup of major partners include Aboitiz Infracapital Inc., Aboitiz Power Corporation, Acer Philippines Inc., Arthaland Corporation, Coca-Cola Philippines, Filinvest Alabang Inc., Megaworld Hotels and Resorts, NEO, PH Global Jet Express Inc., SM Investments Corporation, The Ascott Limited, University of Philippines Diliman, and Watsons.
The lineup of speakers will cover different topics under four categories chosen from the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Making clean energy more accessible and affordable (SDG 7); Encouraging innovation in industry and infrastructure (SDG 9); Creating sustainable cities and communities (SDG 11); and Fostering responsible production and consumption (SDG 12).
“Our purpose is to inform and inspire people to have a better appreciation of sustainability and all its facets, in the hopes that they get to know and support these companies that do espouse or champion sustainability,” said the project lead, Philip Cu-Unjieng.
“From redefining the sustainability agenda last year, we want to extend our gains and host a second forum due to the worsening situation. Despite having the countries meet on climate change, it is alarming to note that carbon emissions are actually increasing. Pledges and plans are in place and yet you can see there is still a gap between understanding and appreciation, and doing what has to be done.
We want to push the forum as a vehicle for a better articulation of what sustainability is all about. We want to harp on the urgency of the current situation, discuss what can be done now, and put on the table the future of our planet. At the very least, we want people to be more appreciative of sustainability, and even if only on a soft impact basis, adapt it into their lifestyles and be part of the solution,” added Cu-Unjieng.
Taking a holistic approach to sustainability, the forum is designed to bring together environmental, social, and governance factors into the discussion, and bridge the gap among representatives from various industries, local government units, and other stakeholders with the student youth as its primary audience.
With much enthusiasm, the University of the Philippines stepped up to be involved as the forum’s first academic institutional partner. Selected faculty members and students from different colleges will be in attendance and contribute to the exchange of experiences, narratives, and ideas. More than just an academic discussion, the event aims to help produce future champions of sustainability who will lead and dedicate their skills and knowledge to create positive change in the years to come.
To acknowledge the corporate partner’s sustainability initiatives and contribution, the Partners Recognition Night will be on the evening of Nov. 22 at the Ascott Bonifacio Global City. During the intimate gathering, participants are expected to share their journeys and insights in a setting that fosters a sense of community among participants who share the same mindset on sustainability.
If you are interested to join and support the event, please send an email to: [email protected].