Written by: Ronnabelle Bartolay
In a notable display of commitment to environmental stewardship, multinational conglomerate corporation 3M collaborated with ABS-CBN Foundation (AFI) Bantay Kalikasan for a seed germination activity at the La Mesa Nature Reserve last November 25, 2023.
They were led by 3M Customer Service Manager Jenifer Razon-Laygo, one hundred (100) 3Mers actively engaged in this hands-on initiative to embody the values of 3Mgives — the philanthropic arm of 3M. This partnership goes beyond corporate boundaries, leveraging AFI’s environmental advocacy alongside 3M’s mission to balance scientific innovation and social responsibility.
The seed germination activity supports Bantay Kalikasan’s reforestation efforts within the La Mesa Watershed. Cultivating new plants and trees enhances the watershed’s resilience against potential flooding in nearby areas while also ensuring the preservation of its vegetative cover, given that it serves as one of Metro Manila’s primary drinking water sources. In his speech, 3Mgives Champion and Program Management Office (PMO) Operations Manager Albert Velasco emphasized the integral role of 3M’s environment committee in driving this initiative.
“3M has had a strong push on sustainability and had a 10-year plan to save the environment. As you know, 3M’s innovation has a lot to do with that, [and] the science that we do will help move that faster. But it starts with us; it starts with 3Mers, it starts with the people.” he expressed. Velasco added that 3M hopes for a “bigger and better” partnership with AFI in the future. 3M also sought to foster this shared identity by distributing shirts to participants, foresters, and La Mesa employees.
Among the AFI representatives who were present were the La Mesa Watershed Team: Program Officer Mar Zeri Ramirez, Admin Assistant and Forester Rona May Cadelino, and La Mesa Ecopark and Watershed Operations Supervisor Sarah Alcayde-Agcaoili.
Following the said activity, 3Mers and AFI representatives embarked on a trekking adventure, encouraging connections among members as they explored the serene environment of La Mesa. Beyond community engagement, this initiative will serve as a reminder that environmental responsibility is a conscious choice that individuals and organizations can make for the benefit of future generations.
Want to make your mark for a more sustainable Philippines?
Contact us today to collaborate on your own Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives. Please email us at foundation@abs-cbnfoundation.com