By Ignacio R. Bunye
In a groundbreaking move, ACEN and SariSuki have joined forces to launch the Agro-Circularity in Renewable Energy (ACRE) program, a visionary initiative aimed at uplifting local farmers in ACEN’s host communities. This collaboration is not just 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 is set to revolutionize the agricultural landscape by providing farmers with essential training and support. By cultivating suitable crops within ACEN’s renewable energy sites, farmers can enhance the market value of their produce and streamline 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 the Ayala Group, has long been a pioneer in renewable energy projects, with a goal of achieving 20 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030. By integrating agriculture into their renewable energy sites, ACEN is promoting 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 platform founded by Brian Cu, has been instrumental in transforming the agricultural supply chain in the Philippines. By connecting microentrepreneurs and farmers directly with consumers, SariSuki ensures fair prices and efficient access to fresh produce. The partnership with ACEN amplifies SariSuki’s impact, enabling farmers to reach broader markets and improve their profitability.
The ACRE program is more than just an agricultural initiative; it is a holistic approach to sustainability. By improving agricultural infrastructure and ensuring efficient market access, the program addresses critical challenges faced by farmers. This collaboration exemplifies how responsible land use and innovative solutions can drive economic growth and enhance food security.
The partnership between ACEN and SariSuki is a perfect model of how collaboration can lead to transformative change. By combining the strengths of renewable energy and agriculture, the ACRE program 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 sustainability and food security in the Philippines. It is a model that other sectors should look to emulate, demonstrating that with the right partnerships, we can achieve remarkable progress.
Unlocking potential and shaping tomorrow’s leaders at Ayala Group
The Ayala Group recently welcomed a new cohort of 93 college and university students into the refreshed Ayala Group Summer Internship Program (AGSIP), a transformative initiative designed to identify and nurture promising young individuals with exceptional potential to become future industry leaders.
The interns, hailing from top institutions in the Philippines and abroad, are about to embark on an exciting journey within one of the country’s largest and most enduring conglomerates.
AGSIP goes beyond the traditional internship experience. It’s not just about clocking hours; it’s about preparing these young talents for the future. As Francisco Romero Milán, chief Human Resources Officer of Ayala Corporation, aptly puts it: “AGSIP is more than just about an internship. It is about helping [them] become not just professionals but valuable contributors to society.”
During the intensive eight-week program, AGSIP interns will be deployed across 20 different companies within the Ayala group. Among the participating companies are Ayala Land, Bank of the Philippine Islands, Globe Group, ACEN, AC Health, AC Logistics, ACMobility, Asticom, GCash, and Ayala Foundation, Inc.
The interns will dive into critical functional units, engage in real-world missions, and receive mentorship from seasoned professionals. This hands-on exposure will equip them with practical skills and insights, laying the groundwork for their future careers.
Cezar Consing, Ayala Corporation’s President & CEO, welcomed the interns to one of the most exciting companies in the country. Consing said that Ayala’s commitment extends beyond the internship period. Even if the interns don’t end up working with Ayala, they’ll leave with a toolkit of skills and experiences that set them apart. This program is Ayala’s pledge to shape the future workforce, ensuring that these young talents thrive wherever their career paths lead.
Consing encouraged the interns to make the most of this opportunity.
“Find meaning, understand corporate life, learn how companies like ours operate,” he advised.
“The connections made during AGSIP, the people met, and the lessons learned will resonate throughout your lives. To the incoming summer interns: Enjoy these eight weeks — it’s a stepping stone toward a bright future.”
AGSIP runs from June 20 to August 9, 2024 and the Ayala Group eagerly awaits the impact these interns will make.
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