ABOITIZ Renewables Inc. and the Aboitiz Foundation received the Outstanding CSR Project for Arts and Culture award at the CSR Guild Awards 2025 for Project Tahi ‘Ta!, a community initiative that empowers women from the Higaonon tribe in Impasugong, Bukidnon through culture-based sewing livelihood training.
Organized by the League of Corporate Foundations, the CSR Guild Awards honor programs that create lasting, meaningful impact in communities nationwide.
Project Tahi ‘Ta! addresses two critical needs: preserving traditional craftsmanship and providing sustainable income for Indigenous women in Bukidnon’s rural communities.
Aboitiz Renewables, the renewable energy arm of Aboitiz Power Corporation, and the Aboitiz Foundation sponsored the sewing training sessions and provided sewing machines and complete sewing kits for beneficiaries in Barangay Guihean.
“Project Tahi ‘Ta! blends cultural preservation with livelihood support,” said Noreen Vicencio, Aboitiz Renewables First Vice President and General Manager for Hydro Operations. “Apart from crafting practical items, women aged 19 to 60 learn to make traditional garments and accessories, passing their knowledge to the next generation. When women gain confidence in their skills, they bring both income and pride to their families.”
In 2024, 19 women from Barangay Guihean completed the training, gaining skills in machine setup, pattern drafting, and making garments and traditional attire. They now earn additional income through sewing jobs like making and repairing curtains, school uniforms, and household linens.
Through their association, the women are exploring new product lines such as embroidered table runners, tote bags, and custom uniforms, while building partnerships with local schools and market vendors to expand their reach.
In Sitio Mintapud, Aboitiz Renewables also donated materials for weaving and beadwork to help preserve the Higaonon people’s cultural heritage.
“We’re proud to support Indigenous artisans who are preserving tradition while building better futures,” 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 project beneficiary Elisa Anlicao. (The support from Aboitiz Renewables and the Aboitiz Foundation 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, harnessing the power of the Tanaon, Amusig, and Guihean rivers. PR
