Supporting farmers with renewable energy

In a GROUNDBREAKING move, ACEN and SariSuki have joined forces to launch the Agro-Circularity in Renewable Energy (ACRE) program, a visionary initiative to uplift local farmers in ACEN’s host communities. This partnership is not only a testament to the power of synergy between agriculture and renewable energy, but also a model for sustainable development and food security in the Philippines.

The ACRE program aims to revolutionize the agricultural landscape by providing farmers with the necessary training and support. By growing the right crops on ACEN renewable energy sites, farmers can increase the market value of their produce and improve the supply chain. This initiative introduces modern farm management practices and essential skills such as crop selection and basic business practices, ensuring that farmers are well-equipped to thrive in a competitive market.

ACEN, the energy platform of Ayala Group, has long been a pioneer in renewable energy projects, with the goal of achieving 20 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030. By integrating agriculture into its renewable energy sites, ACEN promotes responsible land use while contributing to the Philippines’ clean energy transition. This innovative approach not only maximizes land utility but also supports local communities by providing them with sustainable livelihoods.

SariSuki, an online marketplace founded by Brian Cu, has played a key role in transforming the agricultural supply chain in the Philippines. By connecting micro-entrepreneurs and farmers directly with consumers, SariSuki ensures fair prices and efficient access to fresh produce. The partnership with ACEN strengthens SariSuki’s impact, enabling farmers to reach broader markets and improve profitability.

ACRE is more than just an agricultural initiative; it is a holistic approach to sustainable development. By improving agricultural infrastructure and ensuring effective market access, the program addresses critical challenges faced by farmers. This partnership demonstrates how responsible land use and innovative solutions can drive economic growth and enhance food security.

The partnership between ACEN and SariSuki is a great model of how collaboration can lead to transformative change. By combining the strengths of renewable energy and agriculture, ACRE is paving the way for a more sustainable and prosperous future for local farmers. This initiative not only supports the livelihoods of farmers but also contributes to the broader goals of sustainable development and food security in the Philippines. It is a model that other sectors should emulate, showing that with the right partnerships we can achieve extraordinary progress.

Unlocking Potential and Shaping Future Leaders at Ayala Group

The Ayala Group recently welcomed a new cohort of 93 college and university students to the revamped Ayala Group Summer Internship Program (AGSIP), a groundbreaking initiative designed to identify and mentor talented young individuals with exceptional potential to become future industry leaders.

The interns, hailing from top Philippine institutions and foreign countries, will embark on an exciting journey within one of the largest and most enduring conglomerates in the country.

AGSIP goes beyond the traditional internship experience. It’s not just about counting hours; it’s about preparing young talents for the future. As Francisco Romero Milán, Chief Human Resources Officer of Ayala Corporation, aptly put it, “AGSIP is more than just an internship. It’s about helping (them) become not only professionals but also valuable contributors to society.”

During the intensive 8-week program, AGSIP interns will be placed in 20 different companies within the Ayala Group. Participating companies include Ayala Land, Bank of the Philippine Islands, Globe Group, ACEN, AC Health, AC Logistics, ACMobility, Asticom, GCash, and Ayala Foundation, Inc.

Interns will immerse themselves in key functional units, participate in real-world missions, and receive mentoring from seasoned professionals. This hands-on experience will equip them with practical skills and insights, laying the foundation for their future careers.

Cezar Consing, president and CEO of Ayala Corporation, welcomed the interns to one of the most exciting companies in the country. Consing said Ayala’s commitment extends beyond the internship. Even if the interns don’t end up working at Ayala, they will leave with a set of skills and experiences that set them apart. This program is Ayala’s commitment to shaping the future workforce, ensuring that these young talents thrive wherever their career paths take them.

Consing encouraged interns to make the most of the opportunity. “Find meaning, understand corporate life, learn how companies like ours operate,” he advised. “The connections you make during AGSIP, the people you meet, and the lessons you learn will impact you for the rest of your life. To the upcoming summer interns, enjoy these eight weeks—this is a stepping stone to a bright future.”

The AGSIP program will run from June 20 to August 9, 2024, and Ayala Group looks forward to seeing the impact these interns will have. ([email protected])/PN