The Honda Foundation, Inc. (HFI) has taken significant strides in its commitment to environmental preservation and community upliftment with the launch of Honda’s Tree Planting and Livelihood program in Barangay Magsaysay, Siniloan, Laguna. As part of this long-term initiative, Honda has committed to a 5-year Tree Planting and Livelihood program, adopting 28 hectares of the Sierra Madre Mountains under the Department of Environment and Natural Resources’ (DENR) National Greening Program. This reforestation effort involves the planting of 14,000 fruit-bearing trees, a significant contribution to the restoration of the local ecosystem.
In formalizing this commitment, Honda signed a Memorandum of Agreement on March 12, 2024, with DENR Region IV-A and the Magsaysay Coconut Farmers Association (MACOFA), marking the beginning of a collaborative effort towards reforestation and sustainable livelihoods for the local community.
To coincide with the national celebration of Arbor Day, an event dedicated to tree planting in the Philippines every June, Honda organized a tree planting activity. The event was attended by key figures, including HFI President and concurrent President of Honda Parts Manufacturing Corp. (HPMC), Mr. Seiji Fujimoto; Honda Philippines, Inc. (HPI) President, Ms. Sayaka Arai; Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI) President, Ms. Rie Miyake; and Honda Trading Philippines Ecozone Corp. (HTPE) President, Mr. Tomoyuki Mabuchi. The activity also received robust support from Mayor Patrick Ellis Go and the local community of Siniloan.
The event saw the participation of around 100 volunteers, comprising Honda employees, support team members, personnel from the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO), Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO), the Philippine National Police (PNP), and farmers from MACOFA. As of June 21, 2024, the collective effort led to the successful planting of over 2,000 trees, marking a significant milestone in the program’s early phase.
Promoting a Cleaner Environment through River Rehabilitation
In alignment with its environmental advocacy, Honda also initiated a river cleanup activity earlier this year in Barangay Macatad, Siniloan, Laguna, in collaboration with DENR-CENRO Sta. Cruz and the Municipality of Siniloan. This effort was part of the World Water Day celebration on March 22, 2024, aimed at raising awareness within the community about the importance of preserving clean water sources and the environment. The cleanup drive was a resounding success, with 240 kg of waste collected, including 75 kg of biodegradable waste, 150 kg of non-biodegradable waste, and 15 kg of residual waste.
Siniloan River, one of the 21 tributaries of Laguna de Bay, was chosen as the cleanup site due to its significance as a gateway to various waterfalls and as a popular destination for mountaineers and recreational activities. The river is currently being developed into an ecotourism site, making it an ideal location for Honda’s conservation efforts. This initiative not only promotes the conservation of the river but also supports the well-being of local residents, tourists, and visitors to Siniloan.
Empowering the Youth through Education and Skills Development
In another noteworthy development, the Honda Foundation, Inc. (HFI) partnered with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Regional Training Center – NCR to launch the TESDA RTC NCR – HONDA ROOM in Taguig City. This Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program is designed to provide a specialized learning environment for HONDA motorcycle and automotive technologies. The facility is equipped with advanced tools and resources, enabling instructors and trainees to gain the necessary skills and knowledge in HONDA technology. This initiative aligns with Honda’s goal of providing access to quality education and employment opportunities, particularly for the youth and underprivileged families.
On March 20, 2024, a Memorandum of Agreement was signed between TESDA and HONDA to formalize their partnership and commitment to sustaining the training programs. The TESDA RTC NCR – HONDA ROOM will serve as a venue for TESDA Training and Assessment Center activities, with a capacity of up to 25 learners per training batch. Honda’s contribution includes the donation of six motorcycle units, two automobiles, lifters, special tools, and classroom furnishings, ensuring that the facility is fully equipped to deliver comprehensive training.
HFI’s Ongoing Commitment to Social Responsibility
As the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) arm of Honda companies in the Philippines, HFI continues to play a pivotal role in Honda’s mission to contribute to the realization of a sustainable society. Established as a non-stock, non-profit organization on December 23, 1992, HFI has been steadfast in its advocacies, which include Protecting the Environment, Supporting the Youth for the Future, Addressing Community Needs, and Promoting Traffic Safety. Through initiatives like the Tree Planting and Livelihood program, river cleanups, and educational partnerships, Honda aspires to be “a company that society wants to exist,” continuously expanding the potential of people’s lives through meaningful social contributions.
