Aboitiz InfraCapital's Apo Agua program empowers future leaders through its High School Financial Assistance Program, supporting students in partner communities.  
BUSINESS

More than infra: Aboitiz InfraCapital powers up communities

TDT

Aboitiz InfraCapital, Inc. (AIC), the infrastructure arm of the Aboitiz Group, continues to expand its corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives in 2024, focusing on environmental conservation, education, and economic empowerment. These programs aim to create long-term positive impacts across AIC’s operational areas while promoting sustainability and inclusive growth.

"At Aboitiz InfraCapital, we're committed to investing in communities to create meaningful and lasting change,” said Cosette V. Canilao, Aboitiz InfraCapital President and CEO. "Our CSR initiatives align with our mission to support businesses while uplifting communities across the Philippines, ensuring our efforts contribute positively to society and the environment. Through strategic partnerships and innovative programs, we're building a foundation for sustainable growth that benefits all."

Driving sustainability

AIC has prioritized biodiversity conservation and sustainability across its estates. At West Cebu Estate, the company organized a tree-planting initiative in Balamban, Cebu, where over 300 volunteers from MEZ2 Estate and Unity Digital Infrastructure participated, planting more than 2,500 seedlings to enhance local green spaces and preserve biodiversity.

Meanwhile, the upcoming Sustainability Hub at LIMA Estate is set to introduce responsible waste management programs, including a compost-to-fertilizer initiative to promote organic waste recycling; a plastic-to-eco-brick project that repurposes plastic waste into useful building materials; and community waste management sessions designed to educate residents on sustainable practices

In Davao, Apo Agua Infrastructura, Inc., in partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and the Watershed Management Council, installed an Automated Weather Station to improve climate resilience and disaster preparedness while protecting essential water resources.

Educating and empowering women

AIC remains committed to bridging education gaps and empowering women. Through its Solar Scholars initiative, in partnership with Aboitiz Foundation and Aurora PH, Mactan-Cebu International Airport Corporation installed solar power systems at Pangan-an Elementary School. The initiative provides renewable energy access to off-grid schools, reducing operational costs and improving learning conditions for students.

Solar panels installed at Pangan-an Elementary and High School provide reliable renewable energy, reducing costs and supporting better educational resources.

In Davao City, the Apo Agua High School Financial Assistance Program has helped over 100 students since 2019, with plans to expand the program further.

Meanwhile, AIC’s Elevate AIDA program, in partnership with Connected Women, continues to empower women with digital skills. The initiative provides training in data labeling, professional communication, and computer literacy, equipping women with opportunities for remote work. The program recently celebrated a new batch of 51 graduates in Laguindingan, Misamis Oriental, demonstrating AIC’s commitment to closing the gender gap in digital careers.

Aboitiz InfraCapital launches its first batch of the Elevate AIDA program in partnership with Connected Women and the Laguindingan LGU in Laguindingan.

Job creation

Aboitiz InfraCapital is also strengthening economic opportunities in its estate developments. At LIMA Estate in Batangas, AIC hosted a job fair in late 2024, connecting 652 applicants with industrial locators, leading to 47 immediate hires. The initiative will expand to MEZ2 Estate and TARI Estate, increasing employment opportunities for host communities.

Aboitiz InfraCapital Economic Estates team at the LIMA Job Fair, connecting job seekers with growth opportunities.

In Davao City, Apo Agua’s Project Blue has improved access to clean water for over 1,070 households in Barangay Tamugan, donating 134 pipeline rolls in collaboration with the Davao City Water District and Aboitiz Foundation.

AIC is also working to improve government efficiency through Project PinasBilis, a collaboration with the Anti-Red Tape Authority. This initiative aims to enhance public service delivery by providing technology infrastructure such as servers and computers, ensuring faster and more efficient government transactions.

Community engagement and sports

AIC continues to integrate sustainability into sports programs. Partnering with Coca-Cola Beverages Philippines (now Coca-Cola Europacific Aboitiz Philippines, Inc.), AIC launched the "Wasteless Campaign" at the Aboitiz Football Cup. The initiative encouraged young athletes to collect and recycle PET plastic bottles, reinforcing environmental responsibility among the next generation.

Young athletes join Coca-Cola’s Tapon to Ipon program, turning plastic waste into valuable resources for a greener future.

AIC’s commitment to corporate social responsibility and sustainability was recognized at the Asia Corporate Excellence & Sustainability (ACES) Awards, where it was named one of Asia’s top community-centric companies. This recognition further solidifies AIC’s role in driving positive social and economic change through its sustainability and community development programs.

Looking ahead

With a strong focus on community-driven growth, Aboitiz InfraCapital continues to scale its initiatives, forming strategic partnerships to enhance environmental sustainability, education, and economic empowerment. As the company expands its footprint, it remains committed to creating sustainable, resilient communities while fostering inclusive development across the Philippines.