Cavite makes big push for CSR Council

05/11/2008

The Cavite CSR Council, a non-stock, non-profit organization aimed at harmonizing all the CSR efforts by various business enterprises in Cavite, was recently launched by Gov. Ayong Maliksi.

It plans to promote more CSR initiatives in the areas of governance, environmental management, stakeholder engagement, labor standards, employee relation, community relations and purchasing/responsible sourcing.

“These are areas which we believe are critical to growth and development,” Maliksi said.

Among the prime movers in making this council a reality is Intel Philippines, whose CSR programs are focused on education, environment and community.

According to Arlita Narag, “CSR is very much embedded in our corporate culture. We always integrate social responsibility into everything that we do. In fact, in General Trias, where we are located, our Intel Involved volunteers are very much known.”

“We know that many companies are already doing CSR here in Cavite. But we believe that if all these are consolidated, then our CSR efforts would be more effective,” he added.

The governor cited the volunteers of Intel Philippines and Unilever, both located in General Trias, who have been active in tree planting, coastal clean up, education programs and the like. “In fact, Mayor JonJon Ferrer declared General Trias a Town of Volunteers in honor of the Intel Involved volunteers who have done so much, especially for the public schools in General Trias,” he shared.

The Cavite CSR Council’s launch coincided with the Coffee and Humanity of the Philippine National Red Cross.

Coffee and Humanity is a series of coffee gatherings with select executives and CEOs in an effort to raise pledges to support the Philippine National Red Cross’ blood bank.

Cabrera said the pledges gathered at the Cavite CSR Council launch will certainly go a long way in saving many lives.

“In fact, Gov. Maliksi, in his recent state of the province address, also revealed his plan to build a blood bank for the province of Cavite, too. We recognize the important role that Red Cross plays, especially in times of disasters and catastrophes.”

Cabrera also stressed that the Cavite CSR Council is open to all businesses, both and small, local and multinational.

“As long as you have a CSR program, you are welcome to join. And if you want to join but do not have a CSR program, the Council also provides relevant trainings to prospective members,” she said.

Another highlight of the launch of the Cavite CSR Council was the presentation of Chris Nelson, managing director, Philip Morris Philippines Manufacturing Inc., as an adoptive son of Cavite. The cigarette company has a diverse range of CSR programs, and several are being implemented in the province.

Photo shows Nelson signing the commitment to advocate CSR at the Cavite CSR Council launch as Maliksi looks on.

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