IN LIGHT of its remarkable contributions to revitalizing fishing communities of Cebu Province following typhoon Odette), the Aboitiz Foundation’s “Project Banca” was awarded Outstanding Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Project in Disaster Resilience at the League of Corporate Foundations (LCF) CSR Guild Awards on July 6, 2023.
Together with its Cebu-based Aboitiz business units, the Aboitiz Group successfully aided in the recovery of fishing communities and families affected by the calamity.
Project Banca helped restore livelihoods by providing fisherfolk with the necessary equipment to resume fishing activities.
“We are humbled and honored to receive the Outstanding CSR Project in Disaster Resilience award for ‘Project Banca.’ Being able to uplift and have a positive impact on the lives of those affected by the calamities is already an achievement for us, but this recognition will further fuel our determination to continue supporting communities in their journey towards recovery and resilience,” said Aboitiz Foundation president and chief operating officer Maribeth Marasigan.
Brand-new bancas
Coinciding with the launch of “Project Banca” on April 4, 2022 was the transfer of brand-new bancas to beneficiaries in Talisay City, Toledo City and Liloan in Cebu.
The event represented the collaborative efforts of the Aboitiz Foundation, the local government, and the resilient communities aiming to empower fishing communities and revive the local economy.
The donated boats help fishermen catch fish more efficiently and safely.
In just two months, the beneficiaries caught 645 kilograms of fish, which they sold for a total of P129,000.
With their fishing activities back on track, the lives of 75 fisherfolk and their families significantly improved.
“Project Banca” is an integral component of the Aboitiz Group’s #RebuildCebu Campaign, which aims to assist in the rehabilitation of areas severely affected by typhoon Odette in Cebu Province.
Commitment
The recognition of the Aboitiz Foundation’s “Project Banca” as the Outstanding CSR Project in Disaster Resilience underscores the Aboitiz Group’s strong commitment to responsible corporate citizenship.
As the Group undergoes its Great Transformation to become the Philippines’ first Techglomerate, it is powered by technology and a renewed entrepreneurial spirit, and through initiatives like Project Banca, it actively fosters and encourages that entrepreneurial spirit among fellow Filipinos, even in the face of setbacks and natural disasters.
By providing support, resources, and resilience training, Aboitiz empowers entrepreneurs to overcome challenges and create opportunities for themselves and their communities.