Villar Foundation receives DENR Green Legacy Award

The Villar Foundation has been recognized by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) with the Green Legacy Award for its sustained commitment to environmental protection and sustainable development.

The recognition was conferred during the Green Legacy Awards 2025 held in Quezon City under the theme “Greenerships: Building a Sustainable NCR Together,” which honored institutions and partners that have made significant contributions to environmental preservation and ecological balance.

In its citation, the DENR cited the foundation’s long-running environmental programs, including river rehabilitation projects, waste reduction initiatives, and environmental education campaigns implemented in communities and schools.

Former Senator Cynthia Villar, managing director of the Villar Foundation, welcomed the recognition and underscored the group’s long-standing advocacy for sustainability.

“We are honored by this award. Sustainability has always been central to our advocacy. Protecting the environment secures the future of every Filipino family,” Villar said.

Under Villar’s leadership, the foundation has spearheaded multiple environmental initiatives in Las Piñas, notably the rehabilitation of the Las Piñas–Zapote River. Other projects include the Waterlily Weaving Project, the Coco Coir and Coco Peat Enterprise, organic composting programs, and the production of school chairs made from recycled plastic waste.

Villar has also been a leading advocate for the conservation of the Las Piñas–Parañaque Wetland Park, a Ramsar-listed wetland ecosystem and legislated protected area in Metro Manila.

DENR officials commended the Villar Foundation for what they described as a “consistent, innovative, and people-centered approach to environmental management,” noting the foundation’s role in fostering community participation in sustainability efforts.

The award, according to the foundation, reinforces its commitment to further expanding its sustainability initiatives and strengthening partnerships with government agencies, educational institutions, and community organizations nationwide.