Mariveles, Bataan – GNPower Mariveles Energy Center Ltd. Co. (GMEC) and GNPower Dinginin Ltd. Co. (GNPD) reinforced their commitment to community development and the environment through its 2024 P.R.O.G.R.E.S.S. Stakeholders’ Convergence held at the Emiliana Hall in Tenejero, Balanga City.
With the theme “Empowering the Future, Redefining Progress,” the event gathered almost 200 attendees including government officials, community leaders, and representatives from partner organizations.
P.R.O.G.R.E.S.S. – which stands for Protect marine life, Reforest Land, Optimize wealth from waste, Generate livelihood skills and income, Rehabilitate social infrastructure, Elevate educational opportunities, Safeguard quality health access, and Strengthen disaster resiliency – is GMEC and GNPD’s flagship Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) project, which aims to co-create positive change, shared value, and sustainable development.
Nearly 80 million pesos, with 44% allocated for signing Memorandums of Agreement (MOAs) with various stakeholders, fuels P.R.O.G.R.E.S.S. initiatives. These partnerships ensure the project’s long-term sustainability and maximize its impact on the communities. The remaining budget goes towards ongoing programs, disaster relief, scholarships, and sponsorships.
Before the program commenced, Bataan Governor Jose Enrique “Joet” Garcia graced the event, engaging in a brief meeting with GMEC and GNPD executives. Among the notable attendees were GMEC-GNPD COO Emmanuel Lopez, GMEC-GNPD AVP for Community Relations Arcel Madrid, Bataan Vice Governor Ma. Cristina Garcia, Mariveles Acting Mayor Angelito Rubia, Orani Municipal Councilor Maya Bongco, and Samal Municipal Administrator Jay Sammy Lat.
“More than the programs themselves, this Stakeholder Convergence celebrates the connections and partnerships that make them possible. We are grateful to our stakeholders who have shared their time, effort, and knowledge,” Lopez said during his welcome remarks. “This is only the beginning of stronger, more inclusive CSR programs from GMEC and GNPD. Together, we are committed to building a prosperous and sustainable future.”
Other distinguished guests included AboitizPower Executive Relations Manager Anna Jasmin Maniego, AboitizPower Regional Affairs Manager Toni Gonzales, AFAB Department Manager Eng’r. Hazel De Guzman, BPSU President Dr. Ruby Santos-Matibag, DepEd-Bataan Chief Education Supervisor Dr. Milagros Peñaflor, DENR Region 3 representative Lorie Gene Cruz-Gaba, and PGENRO OIC Raphael De Leon, who had been key stakeholders in GMEC and GNPD’s social development and environment initiatives.
One of the highlights of the event is Madrid’s keynote address called “P.R.O.G.R.E.S.S. Reimagined.”
In his message, Madrid said “With great power comes great responsibility” and “being the largest power plant in the country requires us with great responsibility.”
“P.R.O.G.R.E.S.S. isn’t just about social responsibility; it’s about redefining what it means to be an energy provider. We are not just delivering power; we are investing in the future of our communities, our environment, and our people. We invite you to join us on this journey towards a brighter and more sustainable future for all,” he said.
A symbolic “Tree of Progress” was presented during the event, signifying a collective commitment to a sustainable future. This was followed by a Pledge of Sustainability led by GMEC CSR Program Manager Joseph Chavez and the pinning of SDG pins on all attendees, symbolizing their responsibility towards the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.
A press conference capped off the event, featuring key executives from GMEC and GNPD alongside government officials. They discussed the significance of the partnerships and answered questions from the media.