Sustainability Initiatives
Sustainability is both a strategy and mindset for JG Summit, shaping how we do business and how we work together in building a more sustainable future.
In JGSOC, we strive to incorporate sustainability initiatives in our operations and aim to embed sustainability in all aspects of our business and as part of our overall business strategy.
JGSOC continues to progress on its sustainability journey and to contribute to the United Nation’s sustainable development goals through its operations and several initiatives.
Environmental
JGSOC is committed to protecting the environment and conserving energy, water, raw materials, and resources. Some of our environmental advocacies are as follows.
Artificial Reef Project
Since 2002, JGSOC has initiated a marine biodiversity project focusing on environmental preservation on the coast of Barangay Simlong in Batangas Bay. We have deployed artificial reef blocks in the area, which serve as habitats for diverse marine life. Based on recent inspection, the artificial reefs show rich marine biodiversity. Fish and other marine organisms have become more abundant, creating fishing opportunities for local fisherfolk.
One Million Trees Project
The “One Million Trees” project, launched in 2016, aims to contribute to the regreening and reforestation of specific areas in Batangas City. By the end of 2024, JGSOC has achieved a significant milestone, having planted over 640,000 indigenous and fruit-bearing saplings. These plantings were made possible through partnerships with various local government units, local communities, civic organizations, schools, and employee volunteers.
Rehabilitate and Restore
In 2019, JGSOC partnered with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Biodiversity Management Bureau (DENR-BMB) to rehabilitate and restore Wetland No. 8, a 1.8-hectare swamp and marshland located in Brgy. Manocmanoc in Boracay Island, which is home to 39 species of trees and 20 faunal species of birds, fish, mammals, and gastropods.
Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Station (CAAMS)
In July 2023, in partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Environmental Management Bureau, JGSOC donated a Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Station (CAAMS) unit to Batangas City. This monitoring station will continuously and in real-time measure the concentration of Particulate Matter (PM10). The real-time data from the monitoring station will be valuable for assessing air quality in Batangas City and for taking necessary actions to address any environmental concerns.
13.8 MW Solar Rooftop Project
The 13.8 MW Solar Rooftop project was completed in December 2023 by Merbau Corporation, JGSHI’s renewable energy arm. This project supplies solar energy to the petrochemical complex, replacing 17.8 gigawatt-hours of power sourced from the national grid and in-house diesel generators with renewable energy. The goal is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 17,000 metric tons of equivalent CO2 per year.
Social
At JGSOC, corporate social responsibility (CSR) is a cornerstone of our commitment to creating meaningful change.
Abot Kamay Program
The Abot Kamay program is at the heart of JGSOC’s CSR initiatives. Initiated in the late 1990s, it reflects our dedication to education and community development, positively impacting our host communities and beyond. We empower individuals by supporting education and promoting sustainable community development. Our focus on long-term success strengthens the foundations of our host communities and fosters a culture of growth and resilience.
Through these efforts, we promote sustainable growth and inclusive development in alignment with global goals like SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).
Scholarship Grants
In partnership with the Gokongwei Brothers Foundation, JGSOC offers scholarship grants to students from our host communities. These scholarships not only provide educational opportunities but also instill a sense of environmental stewardship. As part of their journey, graduating students participate in the Tree Adoption Program, planting trees as a symbol of sustainability before they graduate.
Brigada Eskwela and Balik Eskwela Initiatives
For over two decades, JGSOC has partnered with the Department of Education to support Brigada Eskwela, a school clean-up initiative, and Balik Eskwela, which provides essential school supplies to students, held before the start of each school year. Year-round, we also offer feeding programs, training sessions, and coaching activities that contribute to the well-being and development of students in our host communities.
Community Outreach Programs
Since 1998, JGSOC has spread joy to local schools through our annual Christmas Outreach Programs. Each year, we celebrate with the students and teachers at public elementary schools in our host barangays and nearby communities in Batangas, spreading holiday cheer and fostering a spirit of generosity. In addition to our holiday celebrations, JGSOC has also donated food and medical supplies and constructed facilities such as streetlights and multi-purpose halls for the overall benefit of the community.
Medical Mission, Training, and Livelihood Initiatives
JGSOC is committed to enhancing community resilience through various training and livelihood programs. We provide first aid training, support local livelihoods, and donate critical equipment and facilities. Additionally, we conduct medical missions and disaster relief efforts to ensure the health and safety of our host communities in Batangas.
Through Abot Kamay, JGSOC continues to build stronger, more resilient communities by addressing their most pressing needs. Our efforts to support education, community welfare, and sustainable development reflect our vision of driving inclusive growth and fostering long-term success for the communities we serve.