First Gen Corporation secured a Gold Anvil at the 61st Anvil Awards of the Public Relations Society of the Philippines (PRSP) for its MAMAFASWAS Weavers program in Jabonga, Agusan del Norte, an initiative recognized for reviving indigenous craft while creating sustainable income for the community.

The award was received by the Lopez-led energy company during the PRSP’s “Gabi ng Parangal” on January 28 at the Solaire Resort North in Quezon City. The recognition highlights a corporate social responsibility effort that links livelihood, cultural preservation, and market access for the Mamanwa indigenous community in Barangay Maraiging.

The program, which started in 2021, established the Maraiging Mamanwa Farmers Skilled Workers Association (MAMAFASWAS) with direct support from the Department of Trade and Industry, the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples, as well as other civil society groups.

Through the initiative, the association grew into a regenerative weaving enterprise that provides technical skills and leadership training, along with guidance on improving and organizing their handicraft products.

One of the key accomplishments of the program was the revival, sustainment, and improvement of traditional weaving skills using buri leaves and abaca fiber. The handcrafted products were later introduced for sale in wider markets through participation in local and national trade events, including Lopez Group expos and the World Bazaar Festival in Manila.

“All these efforts under MAMAFASWAS Weavers have strengthened the weavers’ ability to produce quality, market-ready handicrafts and to participate more in value chains beyond their immediate community,” First Gen Senior Vice President Dennis Gonzales explained.

“The MAMAFASWAS Weavers initiative also has helped rekindle indigenous craft practices that were at risk of being lost, positioning them not only as sustainable livelihood opportunities but also as living expressions of Indigenous art, cultural heritage, and community-based cultural tourism,” Gonzales added.

Beyond just income generation, the program has been credited in restoring the pride in indigenous identity, encouraging the sharing of traditions, and strengthening community spirit through collective learning and work.

The Anvil Awards recognize prominent public relations programs that demonstrate strategic, creative, and measurable impact within their respective communities.

First Gen is currently developing a run-of-river hydroelectric power plant in the host community of Jabonga as part of its plan to expand its capacity to 13 gigawatts by 2030.

As more energy companies expand operations in host communities, how can livelihood and cultural preservation initiatives further shape long-term partnerships between industry and indigenous groups?

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