Aboitiz Renewables, Foundation win award for IP women livelihood program
By MBrand
Published Jul 18, 2025 11:57 am
At A Glance
- Aboitiz Renewables, the renewable energy arm of Aboitiz Power Corporation, together with the Aboitiz Foundation, sponsored the sewing training sessions and donated sewing machines and full sewing kits for beneficiaries in Barangay Guihean, particularly the women from the Higaonon tribe in Impasugong, Bukidnon.
Outstanding CSR Project for Arts and Culture; Aboitiz Renewables First Vice President and GM for Hydro Operations Noreen Vicencio (center) and Corporate Communications Manager Beejay Castillo (third from left), together with AVP for External Relations John Michael Rico (second from left), Aboitiz Foundation COO Mardi Mapa-Suplido (third from right), and Aboitiz Renewables Corporate Services Division Head Leo Robel (second from right), receive the award during the ceremony held recently in Manila.
Aboitiz Renewables Inc. and the Aboitiz Foundation won the “Outstanding CSR Project for Arts and Culture” at the CSR Guilds Awards 2025 for “Project Tahi ‘Ta!”, a community initiative that empowers women from the Higaonon tribe in Impasugong, Bukidnon through a culture-based sewing livelihood training program.
Organized by the League of Corporate Foundations, the CSR Guilds Awards honor programs that create lasting, meaningful impact in communities across the country.
Project Tahi ‘Ta responds to two critical challenges: addressing the risk of losing traditional craftsmanship and the need for sustainable income among IP women in Bukidnon’s rural communities.
Aboitiz Renewables, the renewable energy arm of Aboitiz Power Corporation, together with the Aboitiz Foundation, sponsored the sewing training sessions and donated sewing machines and full sewing kits for beneficiaries in Barangay Guihean.
“Project Tahi ‘Ta! blends cultural preservation with livelihood support,” explained Aboitiz Renewables First Vice President and General Manager for Hydro Operations Noreen Vicencio. “Apart from crafting practical items, women aged 19 to 60 are taught to continue making traditional garments and accessories, allowing them to pass their knowledge to the next generation.”
“We see culture and livelihood working hand in hand. When women gain confidence in their skills, they bring both income and pride to their families,” she added.
In 2024, 19 women from Barangay Guihean completed sewing training, gaining skills in machine setup and pattern drafting, and further developing competencies in making garments, accessories, and traditional attire. By taking on small sewing jobs, which include making and repairing curtains, school uniforms, and household linens, the local women bring in additional income to their households.
The culture-based sewing project for Guihean IP Women's Association in Bukidnon was one of the awardees in the CSR Guilds Awards 2025. Supported by Aboitiz Renewables, it aims to continue the tradition of sewing by making both traditional attire and everyday items like curtains, rugs, and sleepwear, helping turn their skills into a steady source of income.
Through an association, the beneficiaries are currently exploring new product lines such as embroidered table runners, tote bags, and custom uniforms. They are also building partnerships with local schools and market vendors to expand their reach and opportunities.
In a nearby community, Sitio Mintapud, Aboitiz Renewables also donated essential materials for weaving and beadwork to help preserve the rich cultural heritage of the Higaonon people.
“We’re proud to support Indigenous artisans who are preserving tradition and building better futures at the same time,” said Aboitiz Foundation Chief Operating Officer Mardi Mapa-Suplido.
“Ang suporta sa Aboitiz Renewables ug Aboitiz Foundation nakausab sa among asosasyon, pinaagi sa paghatag namo og mga gamit ug kahibalo aron mapalambo ang among kahanas, makabuhat og malungtarong panginabuhi, ug mapalig-on ang among komunidad,” shared Elisa Anlicao, a project beneficiary. (Aboitiz Renewables and the Aboitiz Foundation’s support has transformed our women’s association, giving us the tools and skills to grow our craft, build a sustainable livelihood, and strengthen our community).
Aboitiz Renewables, through its wholly-owned subsidiary Hedcor Bukidnon, Inc., operates the Manolo Fortich 1 and 2 hydro facilities in Bukidnon, which harnesses the power of the Tanaon, Amusig, and Guihean rivers.