Aboitiz Renewables, Foundation win award for IP women’s livelihood program

ABOITIZ Renewables Inc. and the Aboitiz Foundation won the “Outstanding CSR Project for Arts and Culture” at the 2025 CSR Guilds Awards for “Project Tahi ‘Ta!”, a community initiative empowering Higaonon women in Impasugong, Bukidnon, through culture-based sewing livelihood training.

CULTURE-BASED SEWING PROJECT Guihean IP Women’s Association in Bukidnon was one of the awardees in the CSR Guilds Awards 2025. PHOTO FROM ABOITIZ RENEWABLES

Organized by the League of Corporate Foundations, the CSR Guilds Awards recognize programs that create meaningful, lasting impact across communities.

Project Tahi ‘Ta! addresses two key challenges: preserving traditional craftsmanship and providing sustainable income to Indigenous women in rural Bukidnon. Aboitiz Renewables and the Aboitiz Foundation sponsored sewing sessions and donated machines and full kits for participants in Barangay Guihean.

“This project blends cultural preservation with livelihood support,” said Noreen Vicencio, Aboitiz Renewables first VP and Hydro GM. “Women aged 19 to 60 learn to make traditional garments and practical items, passing on their craft to the next generation.”

In 2024, 19 women completed training in sewing machine setup, pattern drafting, and garment creation. They now earn income from small sewing jobs like curtains, uniforms, and linens.

Through their association, they are exploring products like embroidered runners, tote bags, and uniforms, while building ties with schools and markets.

In Sitio Mintapud, Aboitiz Renewables also donated materials for weaving and beadwork to preserve Higaonon heritage.