Energy initiatives all over the world can fuel conflict between many different sectors. Local communities must protect against the impact of big projects on their way of life, energy companies must address critical power supply issues, and local governments must mediate between the two.
In the past, Mindanao has seen success via unique partnerships between all three stakeholders. Companies like AboitizPower know that the only way toward sustainable energy development is to prioritize the well-being of indigenous peoples (IPs) in their service areas.
The Value of Supporting Indigenous Peoples
Supporting local communities is crucial for energy companies for several reasons. Aside from having a moral obligation to respect the rights and cultures of IP groups, many of whom have lived on the land for generations, energy companies must also comply with local regulations that ensure that IPs are consulted on projects that affect their land.
It is a smart way to get to know their project site as well. Native communities often have valuable knowledge about local ecosystems and sustainable practices. Collaborating with these groups can lead to better environmental stewardship and more sustainable energy solutions.
In addition, advocating for their partner IPs also wins the trust of their host communities, and the trust of the national government as well.
A Trusted Champion of the People
Hedcor, a renewable energy company with extensive experience in operating hydropower systems, was recently recognized by the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) Region XI as a “Champion for Indigenous Peoples” for its outstanding support to the IP communities in the Davao Region.
NCIP Region XI Director Atty. Geroncio Aguio praised the AboitizPower subsidiary’s partnership with their host communities. “We recognize Hedcor for its unwavering dedication to the indigenous peoples of the Davao Region. Their consistent efforts in uplifting the lives of IP communities, while respecting and preserving their cultural heritage, truly set a standard for corporate responsibility,” he said.
Hedcor President and COO Rolando Pacquiao highlighted the company’s dynamic partnership with IPs, sharing, “Our relationship with the IPs has grown stronger through years of working together and respecting each other. We greatly value this partnership, recognizing its vital role in fostering the growth and well-being of their communities.”
A Champion for Corporate Social Responsibility
The National Commission on Indigenous Peoples is a government agency established to protect and promote the rights and welfare of indigenous peoples in the country. Created under Republic Act No. 8371, also known as the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act (IPRA) of 1997, the NCIP aims to uphold the constitutional rights of indigenous peoples, which includes their rights to ancestral domains, self-governance, cultural integrity, and social justice.
Through its various programs and initiatives, the NCIP strives to ensure that indigenous peoples in the Philippines can exercise their rights, maintain their cultural identity, and participate fully in national development.
The NCIP also bestows the Champion for Indigenous Peoples award, which acknowledges a company’s efforts in building strong relationships with IPs, protecting the environment, and helping preserve cultural traditions.
Supporting Partner Communities
Hedcor has generously allocated IP shares worth over Php5 million to various communities in Davao del Sur, covering the 2023 period. This will benefit the following IP groups that advocate for better education, healthcare, livelihood, infrastructure, and cultural programs for IP communities in Region XI:
- The Mount Apo Bagobo-Tagabawa Ancestral Domain, Inc. represents the Bagobo-Tagabawa indigenous community residing around Mount Apo, the highest mountain peak in the Philippines. The group aims to empower its members and ensure their traditional practices are respected and upheld.
- The Tudaya Falls Tribal Association is a group advocating for communities surrounding Tudaya Falls, the highest waterfall in the Mount Apo area.
- The Barangay Tribal Council of Sibulan Sta. Cruz, Inc. represents the indigenous residents of Barangay Sibulan in Sta. Cruz, a municipality of Davao del Sur.
IP leader Matanam Gideon Tolentino said this financial assistance is more than just a donation. It is an investment in the future of the local communities. He added, “These funds will enable us to create sustainable programs that elevate our quality of life while preserving our cultural heritage. This partnership is essential to our community’s growth and long-term sustainability.”
