I realized that CSR is not merely about charity; it’s about creating systemic change.
In our recent class on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), I reflected on how businesses use their resources to impact society positively. Our professor emphasized that CSR goes beyond profits, involving sustainability efforts, financial literacy programs, and disaster relief initiatives. It’s a concept that ties directly to the Lasallian values of Faith, Service, and Communion, which guide both our academic and personal growth.
One of the key takeaways from the class was the role CSR plays in shaping businesses to serve shareholders and the communities they engage with. In our breakout session, we shared real-world CSR examples from workplaces and personal experiences. These stories illustrated how companies actively contribute to social good by incorporating CSR into their core practices.
One prominent initiative that several classmates mentioned was the clean-up of the Pasig River, a large-scale environmental project in the Philippines. This effort is not just about cleaning the river but also about addressing environmental degradation and public health issues. The dedication to this long-term initiative showed how businesses can take responsibility for the environment and work toward sustainable solutions. It highlighted the importance of actions that address root causes and create lasting impact.
Another example shared was financial literacy programs aimed at underserved communities. These programs aim to teach people how to manage their finances, empowering them to take control of their economic futures. This resonates with the financial literacy workshop we held at GABAY, where we aimed to equip individuals with the tools for greater financial independence. These programs exemplify Service, as they help build the capacity for self-reliance and stability.
Additionally, many classmates shared experiences of companies providing disaster relief during typhoons, organizing donation drives, and mobilizing support for affected communities. These initiatives demonstrate the Lasallian value of Communion: when one community suffers, the entire society feels the impact. These relief efforts embody solidarity and a collective response to crises, showing how businesses can be powerful agents of change in times of need.
Reflecting on these CSR initiatives, I realized that CSR is not merely about charity; it’s about creating systemic change. The projects discussed weren’t temporary fixes but efforts aimed at long-term transformation, whether in environmental sustainability, financial empowerment, or disaster response. These initiatives demonstrate that CSR is integral to business practices and that companies can achieve both profit and positive social impact.
This insight is especially relevant when considering how De La Salle University (DLSU) aligns its actions with these values. DLSU is committed to CSR through its Center for Social Concern and Action (COSCA), which focuses on social justice and the dignity of the human person. COSCA engages in community development programs that not only support educational initiatives but also empower marginalized communities. DLSU integrates social responsibility into its mission through its outreach and service programs.
DLSU’s Sustainability Report also reflects its dedication to reducing environmental impact and promoting sustainable practices. This aligns with the university’s core values, demonstrating its commitment to integrating sustainability into all aspects of its operations. Additionally, DLSU’s Center for Ethical and Sustainable Business prepares future leaders to make ethical decisions prioritizing social responsibility and profitability. The university’s focus on sustainable business practices aligns with the UN Principles for Responsible Management Education (PRME), aiming to foster leaders who can create positive social change.
These discussions reinforced that true CSR requires committed action. It’s not enough for a company to talk about CSR; they must actively engage in practices that create meaningful, lasting impact. The examples from our class discussions and DLSU’s own initiatives demonstrate how companies can lead by example. CSR must be embedded in an organization’s culture and values, guiding actions that promote sustainability, social justice, and community well-being.
As future business leaders, we are responsible for ensuring that CSR is part of our professional ethos. We must remember that businesses can be powerful forces for good. By aligning business objectives with societal needs, we can contribute to the well-being of future generations, foster sustainability, and create long-term change.
Ultimately, CSR is about more than just doing good; it’s about shaping a future where businesses serve society, and social responsibility becomes integral to how we do business.
The author is an MBA student at the Ramon V. Del Rosario College of Business of De La Salle University and a faculty member of the Department of Accountancy. He can be reached at fernando_granada@dlsu.edu.ph.
The views expressed above are the author’s and do not necessarily reflect the official position of DLSU, its faculty, and its administrators.