Lopez-led First Gen Corp. has won a Gold Anvil award from the Public Relations Society of the Philippines(PRSP) for its corporate social responsibility (CSR) program that supports the Mamanwa indigenous community in Mindanao.
The award was presented during the 61st Anvil Awards held on January 28 at Solaire Resort North. Often called the “Oscars of PR,” the Anvil Awards recognize public relations programs that show strong strategy, creativity, and measurable impact.
First Gen was recognized for its MAMAFASWAS Weavers program, a livelihood initiative for the Mamanwa community in Barangay Maraiging, Jabonga, Agusan del Norte. The program was launched in 2021 after the company organized the Maraiging Mamanwa Farmers Skilled Workers Association, with support from the Department of Trade and Industry, the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples, and civil society partners.
Through the program, community members received technical and leadership training to improve their weaving skills and strengthen their organization. The initiative helped revive traditional weaving using buri leaves and abaca fiber—skills that were at risk of being lost.
The woven products are now being sold in larger markets after being showcased in trade events such as Lopez Group expos and the World Bazaar Festival in Manila. This has allowed the weavers to earn more income and connect to buyers beyond their community.
According to First Gen senior vice president Dennis Gonzales, the program has enabled the weavers to produce better-quality, market-ready products and take part in broader value chains. He added that the initiative not only provides livelihood but also helps preserve indigenous art, culture, and heritage, while promoting community-based cultural tourism.
Beyond economic benefits, the program has strengthened community ties and restored pride in indigenous identity, as members work together and pass on traditional knowledge.
The award highlights the importance of community-centered development and shows how companies can create meaningful social impact alongside business growth.
First Gen, one of the country’s leading clean and renewable energy providers, currently operates 1,700 megawatts of renewable energy from geothermal, hydro, wind, and solar facilities. The company is also building a run-of-river hydroelectric power plant in Jabonga as part of its goal to expand its capacity to 13 gigawatts by 2030.
