The Aboitiz Group joined the launch of the Green EDSA Movement (GEM) in a virtual ceremony held during the Earth Day on April 22 when government and private sector leaders declared their solidarity to transform EDSA to an iconic tree-lined Greenway, prioritizing people mobility over vehicle mobility, and a greener environment to address climate change.
The MMDA who has charge over EDSA will be a key player in its transformation and beautification under a sustainable green program with measurable targets and a timetable that the GEM will advocate and support.
Supporting the movement are the largest business, professional, civic and green organizations, in the country, among others: Management Association of the Philippines (MAP), Financial Executives Institute of the Philippines (FINEX), Makati Business Club (MBC), Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FFCCCI), Employers Confederation of the Philippines (ECOP), PhilExports and Move-As-One Coalition.
Aboitiz Equity Ventures chief financial Officer Manuel Lozano delivered the message of support of the Aboitiz Group to GEM. “To the Aboitiz Group, EDSA has been the main thoroughfare since we expanded our business from north to south Luzon. We believe that all of us play a critical role in helping our communities overcome the challenges of climate change, air pollution, and traffic congestion, compounded by the challenges of the pandemic. There is no better time than now to make the commitment to be part of the solution in restoring the city by establishing green spaces and sustainable transport solutions.”
The Aboitiz Group champions several efforts to address environmental challenges including strategies to address Climate Change. The company became the first Philippine company to support the Task Force on Climate Related Financial Disclosures. This initiative aligns the goals of the company with the Net Zero targets of the Paris Accord.
In Davao City, the company pioneered Best Bus, a fleet of electric buses that provide sustainable, eco-friendly and inclusive public transport for communities. As part of the group’s Ecosystem-based Biodiversity Management programs, the group reached a milestone of planting 11.7 million trees in 2020 exceeding the original target of 9 million for their A-PARK reforestation program.
Government and private sector collaboration on the Green EDSA Movement will provide a participatory and inclusive approach in ushering developments that would consider social, economic, and environmental impact in making safe and resilient green public spaces.
