Wednesday, September 24, 2025

Eton Properties volunteers restore Mt. Makiling Forest in partnership with ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity

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Over 50 employee volunteers from Eton Properties joined the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity (ACB) in a tree-planting and biodiversity restoration activity at Mt. Makiling. The initiative is part of Beyond Green, Eton’s sustainability strategy that has evolved from campaign to the company’s full framework for environmental, social, and governance integration.

Beyond Green reflects how Eton Properties, the real estate arm of the Lucio Tan Group, is embedding sustainability into every part of its business—from community building to stakeholder engagement.

From office to forest: Over 50 Eton Properties volunteers trade desks for shovels as they prepare soil and seedlings for the day’s biodiversity-restoration activities

At the Makiling Botanic Gardens inside the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB), Eton volunteers planted native and endangered tree species, including the Kalingag or Philippine cinnamon, directly contributing to biodiversity restoration in one of the country’s most important watersheds.

The activity extended beyond planting. Volunteers embarked on a guided trail through Mt. Makiling’s foothills, led by Dr. Jerome L. Montemayor, ACB Executive Director, who shared insights on native trees, medicinal plants, and local wildlife. ACB conducted an afternoon learning session on how biodiversity conservation supports watershed health, climate resilience, and community well-being.

“This effort goes beyond planting trees. It’s about protecting ecosystems and inspiring our volunteers to preserve the natural world for generations to come,” said Ar. Adrian Chua, Chief Operating Officer of Eton Properties.

Mt. Makiling is recognized as an ASEAN Heritage Park, part of a regional network of areas with exceptional biodiversity value, alongside other Philippine sites including Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park, Turtle Islands Wildlife Sanctuary, and Apo Reef Natural Park.

Trail of knowledge: ACB Executive Director Dr. Jerome L. Montemayor (right) leads participants along a lush Mt. Makiling trail, pointing out native trees, medicinal plants, and local wildlife
Learning in the forest: During an on-site session, ACB experts explain how Mt. Makiling acts as a vital watershed and sanctuary for countless species, underscoring the importance of ecosystem restoration

“‘We are Eton. We Go Beyond.’ is more than a tagline. It is our pledge to build responsibly and sustainably. Beyond Green began as a campaign but has now become our full sustainability strategy, guiding how we create spaces, engage with communities, and protect the environment,” said Donna Kristine B. Salgado, AVP – Head of Marketing, PR & Corporate Communications, and Sustainability & ESG Officer.

With muddy hands and renewed purpose, Eton Properties volunteers returned carrying the responsibility of continuing restoration and stewardship work. From muddy hands to lasting change—that is Beyond Green.

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