(TOP PHOTO) On behalf of the Aboitiz Group, Aboitiz Foundation President Ginggay Hontiveros-Malvar reaffirmed to DENR Secretary Lotilla the company’s commitment to sustainable forest management during the launch of the DENR’s Sustainable Forest Land Management Agreement (SFLMA), emphasizing collaboration for climate resilience and community impact.
Aboitiz Foundation expressed its strong commitment to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) during the official launch of the Sustainable Forest Land Management Agreement (SFLMA) on June 26, a landmark initiative that strengthens public-private-community partnerships for forest protection and climate resilience.
Speaking on behalf of the Aboitiz Group and CEO Sabin Aboitiz, Aboitiz Foundation President Ginggay Hontiveros-Malvar extended her appreciation to Secretary Raphael “Popo” Lotilla for continuing to push forward critical environmental frameworks, and to former Secretary Toni Yulo-Loyzaga for her foundational work in institutionalizing collaborative forest governance.
“We are deeply honored to support this important initiative,” Hontiveros-Malvar shared. “The SFLMA reflects a shared vision to restore, protect, and sustainably manage our country’s forest ecosystems—not just for today, but for generations to come.”
As part of the Aboitiz Group’s broader sustainability efforts, Aboitiz Foundation reaffirmed its pledge to plant and nurture at least five million trees under its Forests for Life program. In parallel, it is scaling its flagship CarbonPH Project, a long-term reforestation and watershed rehabilitation initiative in partnership with the DENR and the Province of Cebu.
Envisioned to cover up to 55,000 hectares over 40 years, the project harnesses science, technology, and grassroots engagement to create enduring ecological and social benefits.
Aboitiz Foundation also participates in the development of the Department Administrative Order (DAO) and associated guidelines critical to the successful implementation of the SFLMA framework. This contribution highlights the Aboitiz Foundation’s belief in transparent, participatory policymaking that drives scalable, inclusive, and innovative solutions.
Moreover, Aboitiz Business Units across power, infrastructure, land, banking, and food are actively exploring opportunities to embed green investments in SFLMA-designated areas, aligning sustainability with strategic impact. These investments aim to enhance ecosystem services, support local livelihoods, and fortify the country’s climate resilience.
“Today’s launch underscores the power of collaboration,” Hontiveros-Malvar stated. “When government, civil society, private sector, and communities work together, we accelerate meaningful action against climate change. Aboitiz Foundation is proud to walk alongside our partners in this journey—rooted in shared responsibility, guided by innovation, and driven by a long-term vision for a regenerative future.”
