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Ethical Biz

Sustainability is core to Epson, with products made to be kinder to environment

Across the business today, Epson continues to leverage on its efficient, compact, and precise technologies to drive innovations that will make the world a better place. In fact, the company has taken their commitment to sustainability one step further to ensure that each new generation of core products are ever better for the environment.

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Over the last decade, we have seen a growing preference for products made by companies that have built purpose and sustainability into their business model.  Some of the world’s most successful and fastest growing companies have adopted care for the environment and a commitment to work to help solve some of society’s most pressing problems so that purpose and sustainability have become hallmarks of successful and respected businesses.

Research shows that consumers are willing to change their consumption habits to lessen their negative impact on the environment. In fact, millennials and Gen Z are especially willing to pay more for products that contain sustainable ingredients or products that have social responsibility claims.  

Harvard Business School Professor Rebecca Henderson explains it simply in her online course on Sustainable Business Strategy: “Doing well and doing good are intertwined, and successful business strategies include both”. 

Being able to communicate that your company does good in the world is a competitive advantage that attracts and retains employees, helps protect against issues, and creates trust so that people will choose your services and your products over others again and again.    

Epson had the foresight to create a company built on purpose from its early years as a watch manufacturer in the 1940’s. Guided by the keywords “integrity and effort”, and inspired by the character of Epson’s founder Hisao Yamazaki, the drive to innovate, the creativeness and willingness to take on challenges, and a strong commitment to both local and global environmental preservation took root throughout the growing organization. Beginning with a pledge to keep Lake Suwa in the Nagano prefecture clean, Epson later became the first company in the world to declare that it would eliminate ozone-depleting CFC’s from its operations, which it did across the group in 1993.  Epson joined the United Nations Global Compact in 2004, and later declared a commitment to contribute to the U.N. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Products designed to be better for the environment

Across the business today, Epson continues to leverage on its efficient, compact, and precise technologies to drive innovations that will make the world a better place.  In fact, the company has taken their commitment to sustainability one step further to ensure that each new generation of core products are ever better for the environment. 

From conception to completion across the complete product range, products are designed to be more eco-friendly by eliminating hazardous substances. You will see this in the ‘heat-free technology’ employed by Epson printers to eliminate heat from the printing process, thus consuming far less electricity compared to laser printers.  You will also see this in high-capacity ink tanks which significantly reduce environmental impact while boosting operational efficiency.

“We are committed to transform the way businesses work and drive the circular economy,” explains Siew Jin Kiat, Epson SEA Senior Director for Regional Marketing.  “Within the office space, we designed our inkjet printing products to offer more cost-efficient printing that is better for the environment.  Our printers today offer one-tenth average printing costs, use one-eighth the average power consumption and can print 100 pages a minute. In the future, we will be able to provide an office-based paper recycling loop using our water-free dry fiber technology that can make new paper from used copy paper on the spot.” Epson’s revolutionary Paper Lab is the first office-based papermaking system that will shrink the office’s environmental footprint by repurposing used paper and using 60% less water in the process.

On the shop floor, products developed by Epson teams based on customer feedback are enabling better productivity, efficiency, and lower environmental impact.  Epson’s reliable robotics solutions are automating processes in labor-intensive industries to enable employees to leave behind harsh working conditions and long hours. Piezoelectric inkjet systems in digital textile printers are also driving a technology shift from analog, help textile manufacturers cut waste material by up to 95%, enable faster turnaround and the flexibility to run short-run jobs on a wide range of material.  

Purpose in the way teams work and the activities that we embark on 

This desire to make the world a better place is embraced and evident in the Epson work ethic which embraces the desire to build purpose and sustainability “into the details” of innovation and the “everyday”. Nowhere is this more evident than in Epson’s new office and solution centers where its own products are used to support a hybrid workplace while reducing power consumption, waste and caring for the environment. Workspaces are designed to be more energy efficient with layouts that allow resources to be better shared, enabling collaboration across teams that produce their best work.

Wherever they are in the world, Epson teams work to make significant contributions to global corporate climate change and social issues advocates championing human rights, environmental action, workforce diversity, and sustainable sourcing in supply chain management.  In Indonesia, for example, Epson launched an initiative that encouraged young students to take the lead in managing waste through the ‘3 R’s’: reduce, reuse, recycle. 

In the Philippines, partnered with the Rotaract Club’s ‘Juan Bottle at a Time’ project, Epson shared the basics of proper waste management and eco-brick making with the youth community of Santa Ana, Manila.

The Philippine office also partnered with the local Department of Environment and Natural Resources and its youth arm, GREENducation Philippines, for a film competition that aimed to raise public awareness on environmentalism.

In Thailand, Epson worked with the Better Thailand Foundation, to encourage underprivileged and disabled children to find self-appreciation through art.  

Says Siew Jin Kiat: “Our mission is to build stakeholder trust as we grow and prosper with communities and to help create a better world.  Aligned with our vision of a sustainable future, we are dedicated to laying the groundwork for a low-carbon society and will journey to keep educating the public and engaging the youth for longer lasting impact.”

Ethical Biz

Maxim Cebu drivers extend help to communities affected by natural disaster

Driver-partners of Maxim Cebu extended humanitarian aid to communities affected by the recent natural disaster, delivering water and rice to the damaged area and donating blood at the local hospital.

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In the first days of October, driver-partners of Maxim Cebu extended humanitarian aid to communities affected by the recent natural disaster, delivering water and rice to the damaged area and donating blood at the local hospital.

The assistance reached about a hundred families in Bogo City, who had taken refuge in temporary shelters set up at Cebu Provincial Hospital Bogo City and Bogo Gymnasium. The supplies were transported in Maxim’s trucks, but since the road leading to the shelters had been destroyed, the task of delivering the goods was taken on by driver-partners using more mobile vehicles – motos.

A total of 62 Maxim driver-partners took part in distributing relief goods to those in need. Together, they delivered more than 500 kilograms of rice, 200 packs of biscuits, and around 100 bottles of water. The campaign was jointly sponsored by the company and its partners, who were eager to help the affected residents during this difficult time.

The following day, a group of driver-partners visited Vicente Sotto Hospital to donate blood. More than 60 victims of the earthquake had been admitted to the hospital, which, subsequently, left the medical facility with critically low blood supplies. Seventy-two driver-partners donated approximately 35 liters of blood, while their colleagues in Lapu-Lapu City followed with 30 more donors, contributing nearly 15 liters. All donations will be used to treat the patients injured by the earthquake.

To further support recovery efforts, Maxim Cebu also organized a street cleanup to help mitigate the disaster’s aftermath. From 5 to 8 a.m., the company’s team cleared debris and helped restore order in the affected zone. This initiative not only improved the local environment but also reinforced Maxim’s commitment to supporting local communities in times of crisis.

Building on these humanitarian efforts, Maxim–Angeles Pampanga will also hold a blood donation activity at the Mabalacat LGU this coming October 30, continuing the company’s advocacy of helping communities in need and promoting volunteerism among its driver-partners.

“This earthquake has become a grave challenge for our communities, and it is at a time like this when we must stand together,“ said Poliran Christopher Landong, Head of Maxim Cebu. “Maxim and our driver-partners are doing everything we can to support the people, be it street cleanups, blood donations, or whatever else that is needed. We are a team, and only by staying united can we overcome major difficulties.”

This effort is one of the many social initiatives launched by Maxim Rides & Food Delivery and its driver-partners. It marks another important step in community support, showing that Maxim’s partners are always ready to come together when lives are at stake.

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Ethical Biz

Canon champions lifesaving advocacy with blood donation drive in partnership with NKTI

As part of Canon’s Health and Wellness initiatives, the event united employees in a shared mission to save lives and promote the spirit of giving. A total of 30 Canon employees participated as donors, contributing to NKTI’s blood bank and providing vital support for patients in need of blood transfusions.

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Canon Marketing (Philippines), Inc. (CMPI) reinforced its commitment to corporate social responsibility and community health through a successful Blood Donation Drive in collaboration with the National Kidney and Transplant Institute (NKTI).

As part of Canon’s Health and Wellness initiatives, the event united employees in a shared mission to save lives and promote the spirit of giving. A total of 30 Canon employees participated as donors, contributing to NKTI’s blood bank and providing vital support for patients in need of blood transfusions.

“Every drop of blood is a symbol of compassion and hope,” said Anuj Aggarwal, President & CEO of Canon Marketing (Philippines), Inc. “We are proud of our employees for coming forward to make a real difference. This initiative truly reflects Canon’s philosophy of kyosei—living and working together for the common good.”

Dr. Jose Dante Dator, Executive Director of NKTI, commended Canon’s initiative:

“Partnerships like this highlight the power of collaboration between the private sector and healthcare institutions. Canon’s support directly contributes to saving countless lives, and we hope more organizations will follow their example.”

Through this initiative, Canon Philippines continues to advocate for health, wellness, and community service, embodying its vision to create a positive impact beyond business. The Blood Donation Drive also underscores Canon’s dedication to nurturing a culture of care, empathy, and social responsibility among its employees.

Canon is a global multibillion-dollar company with one of the world’s most extensive digital imaging product lines. In 2020, it marked its 35th consecutive year among the top five U.S. patent holders and its 16th straight year as the leading Japanese company for U.S. patents granted—a testament to its culture of innovation.

Guided by its Kyosei philosophy of living and working together for the common good, Canon delivers total imaging solutions that enhance both personal and professional lives. Recognized as one of the Top 20 brands in Asia-Pacific (Campaign Asia-Pacific & Nielsen, 2018), the brand is known for performance, reliability, and corporate citizenship.

In the Philippines, Canon Marketing (Philippines), Inc. operates nationwide with a strong network of offices and authorized service centers. It has earned multiple honors, including the Corporate Award and Gold Bagwis Seal of Excellence for outstanding customer service.

Canon Philippines is committed to sustainability, embedding eco-friendly practices across its operations and product lifecycle to help build a greener future.

For press materials, visit the Canon Press Center. For product and service inquiries, contact our Customer Care Hotline at +63-2-884-9000.

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Ethical Biz

Chevron leads coastal cleanup in Batangas with 250 volunteers

By joining forces, employees, contractors, and community partners were able to collect 232 sacks of trash from the shoreline near the Chevron Batangas terminal, a coastal stretch that also serves as a nesting ground for Olive-Ridley sea turtles.

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The annual Coastal Cleanup hosted by Chevron Philippines Inc. (CPI), marketer of Caltex fuels and lubricants, brought together 250 volunteers in San Pascual, Batangas. By joining forces, employees, contractors, and community partners were able to collect 232 sacks of trash from the shoreline near the Chevron Batangas terminal, a coastal stretch that also serves as a nesting ground for Olive-Ridley sea turtles.

The initiative, held in line with the International Coastal Cleanup, was made possible through the collaboration of multiple organizations, including SRDC, CJI General Services Inc., 5G Security Inc. (5GS), the Philippine National Police (PNP), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary (PCGA), Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO), City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO), and Barangay Danglayan.

Partnerships that Matter

Mae Belle Albay, Head Operator at Chevron Philippines Inc., highlighted the importance of collective action in ensuring the success of this year’s cleanup.

“This cleanup demonstrates what’s possible when everyone—local government, community members, our employees, and contractors—comes together with a shared purpose. Although this area is within Chevron’s operational control, it remains a shared space that we all rely on and have a responsibility to protect. Collaborative efforts like this show the power of collective action in preserving the environment as part of our environmental stewardship,” Albay said.The largest group of volunteers came from the Manila Shared Services Center (MSSC) with 118 members collecting 84 sacks of waste, followed by 5GS with 30 volunteers gathering 28 sacks, while Chevron employees and contractors contributed 25 volunteers and 59 sacks. The PCGA sent 7 volunteers who collected 14 sacks.

Beyond One-Day Cleanups

hevron has been organizing the San Pascual coastal cleanup since 2009, but Albay emphasized that sustainability goes beyond one-day efforts.

“It used to be just one big cleanup each year. But since 2015, we’ve shifted to more regular efforts to prevent waste from piling up. By organizing smaller, more frequent cleanups, we’ve found that we can make a bigger, more lasting impact on our environment,” she explained

Environmental Stewardship at the Core

For Chevron, environmental protection is integral to its operations, especially with its terminal located along Batangas’ shoreline.

“It’s always been the company’s social responsibility to share our part in cleaning the environment, especially with our operations dealing with the coastline and vessels from overseas,” said Raymund Año, Batangas Terminal Manager.

He added that the company also implements sustainable practices within the workplace. “Even here in the terminal, we’re eliminating the use of bottled water; we just use glasses and dispensers. Small efforts will mean a lot in protecting the environment, especially now when plastics are still widely used but remain non-biodegradable.”

Spreading Awareness and Volunteerism

The annual cleanup is more than a corporate social responsibility project; it is a call for environmental awareness and volunteerism.

“I hope every year we can do this and that more will join. This is sustainable volunteerism —and with more volunteers, the more waste we are able to collect. Each sack matters in keeping our coastline clean,” Año added.

Looking forward, Chevron plans to continue working with local government units, community organizations, and private partners to expand its environmental initiatives.

“As we spread awareness, we hope other companies and individuals are encouraged to do their part. Hindi lang naman ito tungkulin ng Chevron Philippines, kundi responsibilidad ng lahat,” Año emphasized. (“As we spread awareness, we hope other companies and individuals are encouraged to do their part. This is not just Chevron Philippines’ duty, but everyone’s responsibility,”)

A Lasting Commitment

Through initiatives like the San Pascual coastal cleanup, Chevron and its partners continue to show that collective efforts can create long-term impact in preserving marine ecosystems. The 232 sacks of waste collected this year serve as a reminder of both the challenges and the possibilities in maintaining cleaner, safer coastlines for future generations.

Protecting Olive-Ridley Sea Turtles

The San Pascual coastline is not only a community resource but also a vital ecological site. It serves as a nesting ground for Olive-Ridley sea turtles (Lepidochelys olivacea), one of the world’s most widely distributed but still vulnerable marine turtle species. These turtles come ashore to lay their eggs between August and October, making coastal cleanliness critical to ensuring hatchlings have a safe path back to the sea.

By keeping the shoreline free from plastics and other debris, volunteers help improve the chances of survival for these turtles—whose global populations are threatened by pollution, habitat loss, and poaching. Protecting their nesting sites in Batangas is a step toward preserving marine biodiversity for generations to come.

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