Metro Pacific Investments Corporation Joins Forces in Historic Environmental MOU to Safeguard the Verde Island Passage

Metro Pacific Investments Corp. Chairman, President, and CEO Manuel Pangilinan shares a message at the MOU Signing for Private Sector Involvement in the Protection and Management of the Verde Island Passage

(From left to right) Metro Pacific Investments Corp. chairman, president, and chief executive officer Manuel Pangilinan; Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla; Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Maria Antonio Yulo-Loyzaga; San Miguel Corp. president and chief operating officer Ramon Ang; and Aboitiz Equity Ventures Inc. president and chief executive officer Sabin Aboitiz.

MAKATI, Philippines, 7th May 2024 – Metro Pacific Investments Corporation (MPIC), the Philippines’ leading infrastructure investments company, announces its commitment to protect and enhance the Verde Island Passage (VIP). Together with Aboitiz Equity Ventures (AEV) and San Miguel Corporation (SMC), MPIC has agreed to assume joint stewardship of this critical waterway between Luzon and Mindoro islands through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the Department of Energy (DOE).

Building upon the established efforts of MPIC’s Shore It Up initiative, which has championed the protection of the Verde Island Passage since its inception, this new partnership will further solidify the role of private sector involvement in the conservation of one of the world’s most crucial marine biodiversity hotspots. The VIP is not only a critical ecological asset but also a vibrant economic avenue for local communities, supporting both traditional fisheries and ecotourism.

MPIC’s Chairman, President, and CEO, Manuel V. Pangilinan, emphasized the strategic integration of environmental stewardship with private and government partnerships, stating, “Today, we take a giant step together towards a healthier marine environment, and towards thriving communities. But rest assured, this will not be the last time we attempt a great, monumental task together. The work of nation-building continues, and I am thrilled to be working alongside all of you.”

DENR Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo Loyzaga highlighted the significance of the partnership in her address, stating, “We strive to achieve our commitment to building adaptive and resilient communities nationwide as we adopt a ridge-to-reef approach in ecosystems protection, recognizing their critical roles in providing food, water, and energy. I am therefore very pleased and privileged to be able to be part of a joint undertaking of the DENR and the DOE with the powerhouses in the energy sector, as they commit to the conservation and protection of our Biodiversity in the Verde Island Passage.”

The agreement outlines several key objectives, including enhancing biodiversity, promoting sustainable economic opportunities for local communities, and supporting the nation’s transition to a low-carbon future. It further aligns with international environmental goals and the Philippine government’s clean energy initiatives, creating a robust framework for ongoing cooperation. 

This partnership represents the group’s efforts to contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 7 – Affordable and Clean Energy, 13 – Climate Action, 14 – Life Below Water, and 15 – Life on Land.

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About Metro Pacific Investments Corporation (“MPIC”)

MPIC is a leading Philippine company with investments in power, toll roads, water, transportation, healthcare and real estate. The Company seeks to create long-term value for all its stakeholders through responsible and sustainable investments that contribute to national progress and improve the quality of life in the communities it serves.

MPIC and its group of companies are making a difference in the lives of millions of Filipinos, powering commerce and households, connecting people and places, delivering clean and safe water, and making world-class healthcare available to all.

For further information please contact:

Melody del Rosario

Vice President, PR & Corp. Comms (MPIC)

Cel. No. 0918 9635639