Mariveles, Bataan — Aboitiz Power Corporation (AboitizPower) is transforming waste materials into livelihood opportunities in Bataan through its “Waste to Material” program, an initiative led by its GNPower Mariveles Energy Center (GMEC) and GNPower Dinginin (GNPD) facilities, in collaboration with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).

The program, part of “Project Saysay,” trained 50 women — spouses of municipal utility workers and garbage truck drivers — in Mariveles on how to repurpose discarded plastic materials, including election campaign tarpaulins, into eco-friendly products. These products include bags, plant pots, faux lamps, and various home decor items.

The initiative aims to address the growing concern of solid waste in Bataan. The Bataan Ten-Year Solid Waste Management Plan for 2018-2027 estimates the province generates 310.6 tons of solid waste per day, projected to rise to 396.6 tons per day by next year. Recyclables constitute about 23 percent of this total, underscoring the need for such projects.

TESDA instructors guided participants in creating practical household items and creative decor from tarps and plastic waste. GMEC and GNPD provided toolkits containing essential supplies such as scissors, glue guns, soldering irons, cutters, spray paint, cable ties, and recyclables, enabling the 50 beneficiaries to kickstart their ventures.

Project Saysay is an employee-led monthly outreach program where AboitizPower employees who are celebrating birthdays volunteer their time to engage with and contribute to the community. This aligns with the company’s commitment to fostering safe, empowered and sustainable communities.

The project was implemented in collaboration with the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO) of Mariveles, strengthening the partnership between AboitizPower and the local government in promoting sustainable practices.

This collaboration follows MENRO’s support for the team’s Arbor Day tree-planting activity last month, reflecting a shared dedication to environmental sustainability.

AboitizPower holds a 78.3 percent effective partnership interest in GMEC and a 70 percent effective partnership interest in GNPD, both of which are private limited partnerships.