Cebu Pacific (CEB) partnered with SMBC Aviation Capital and the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (RAFI) on a mangrove planting project in Sitio Sulok, Lian, Batangas.
The initiative aims to restore coastal ecosystems and empower local communities by planting 7,000 seedlings.
A total of 27 CEB volunteers, along with representatives from SMBC Aviation Capital and RAFI, participated in the planting activity.
“Cebu Pacific is dedicated to initiatives that create positive change, not only for our passengers but also for the communities we serve. This project reflects our strong focus on environmental stewardship and volunteerism, offering our employees an opportunity to contribute to long-term community efforts,” CEB chief human resources officer Felix Lopez said.
SMBC Aviation Capital, one of the world’s largest aircraft leasing companies, views this project as an essential part of its broader sustainability strategy.
“SMBC Aviation Capital is committed to corporate social responsibility and sustainability efforts that extend beyond our daily operations to the communities in which we operate. Through this collaboration, we are investing in a project that will benefit both the environment and the people who depend on these vital resources,” SMBC Aviation Capital chief operations and sustainability officer David Swan said.
The project is anticipated to create livelihood opportunities for the local community in Sitio Sulok. Members of the Samahan ng Mangingisda sa Sulok (SAMLOK) people’s organization will be responsible for seedling production, site preparation, and the long-term maintenance of the mangrove area.