Converge ICT Solutions Inc. has capped off 2024 with a powerful commitment to environmental sustainability, joining forces with the Energy Development Corporation (EDC) to plant 600 critically endangered Philippine teak seeds in Lobo, Batangas. This initiative, which took place last December, is part of Converge’s larger environmental agenda and aims to ensure the long-term health of the province’s flora and fauna.
The tree-planting event, a gift to the local forest community, took place at a 200-hectare conservation site dedicated to the Philippine teak. It also serves as a part of Converge’s goal to give back to nature, engaging 53 participants including suppliers in the effort.
“This partnership with Binhi helps us meet key UN Sustainable Development Goals—specifically those focused on climate action, biodiversity, and poverty reduction,” said Jennifer Ambanta-Realubit, Converge community relations manager. “The holidays often contribute to higher carbon footprints, and we wanted to make a positive impact by reducing ours while fostering employee engagement around sustainability.”
Soleil Acu, EDC partnership officer, highlighted the significance of the collaboration: “Our partnership is a natural fit—Converge’s Pasig headquarters is powered by our geothermal plant, reinforcing the shared values of environmental responsibility between our companies.”
EDC’s Binhi program, the country’s largest private sector-led forest restoration initiative, has been active for 15 years, with Converge as one of its 222 partners working to restore degraded forests and protect endangered tree species.
As part of its broader sustainability strategy, Converge set a goal to plant 4,000 trees by the end of 2024—a target it has surpassed, starting with its initial efforts in Pampanga in 2021. Looking ahead, the two companies are set to formalize their collaboration with a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) in the first quarter of 2025.
“We plan to continue this partnership as we and other businesses transition to a lower-carbon economy,” said Jay-Anne Encarnado, VP and corporate communications and public relations head. “We are excited to expand our environmental efforts in the coming year.”
