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Smart to power cell sites with green energy through fuel cell technology

Smart’s shift to green energy follows the announcement of the Department of Energy in Q4 of 2020 that the Filipino government will no longer accept proposals to build new coal power plants, from the new Energy Conservation and Efficiency Act signed into law in 2019. These significant policy shifts help boost the deployment of cleaner energy sources, to help ensure more sustainable growth for the country.

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Photo by Aaron Burden from Unsplash.com

In an effort to transition to more sustainable and environment-friendly solutions, while providing connectivity to more communities, Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) will roll out fuel cell sites in challenged-grid areas nationwide starting Q2 2021 until the end of the year.

As the wireless arm of the Philippines’ largest integrated telecommunications company, PLDT Inc., Smart’s shift to green energy follows the announcement of the Department of Energy in Q4 of 2020 that the Filipino government will no longer accept proposals to build new coal power plants, from the new Energy Conservation and Efficiency Act signed into law in 2019. These significant policy shifts help boost the deployment of cleaner energy sources, to help ensure more sustainable growth for the country.

“PLDT and Smart are active advocates of sustainable development.  As we face daunting challenges on how to protect our environment and promote more equitable social development, Smart’s cutting-edge technologies can play a significant role in rallying the right socio-environmental mindset and driving a greater sense of responsibility to the planet,” said Smart Communications President and CEO and PLDT Chief Revenue Officer Alfredo S. Panlilio.

Smart’s 2021 foray to green technology will be made possible through a partnership with Denmark-based renewable energy company SerEnergy. A world-leading developer and supplier of methanol-based fuel cell solutions, the company will install over 90 green cell sites for Smart in off- and bad-/challenged grid urban and rural locations.

What is fuel cell technology?

In a fuel cell, hydrogen and oxygen are combined to generate electricity, heat, and water to produce electricity through an electrochemical reaction, instead of combustion. The system is based on methanol-powered fuel, which can be combined with solar, wind and other renewable resources to present a sustainable, cost-effective eco-system. Stationary fuel cells provide virtually emission-free power and do not produce particulate pollutants or unburned hydrocarbons. They emit less carbon dioxide than other technologies, and when using fuel generated from renewable sources such as biomass, fuel cells are completely carbon neutral.

“Smart’s transition to green energy places the company upfront as one of the pioneers in its industry, setting an important agenda in securing the environment through sustainable solutions,” said PLDT and Smart SVP for Network Planning and Engineering Mario G. Tamayo.

With over 15 years of experience with cutting-edge fuel cell technology, with power and backup solutions for telecom as a prime segment, SerEnergy also provides utility and industrial sectors with methanol-based fuel cell systems. “We are excited that Smart has chosen our clean power technology that besides from delivering people-, nature- and environmentally friendly energy, makes no compromise on quality,” said SerEnergy Commercial Manager Morten Thomsen.

Aside from the environmental benefits of fuel cell -powered sites, the technology is said to be more cost-effective over the lifetime of the unit, compared to existing technologies. In cost-per-unit-of-energy terms, methanol compares favorably with both gasoline and diesel.

In many cases, fuel cells are also able to offer higher reliability, with no degradation of capacity over time and limited maintenance needed. These solutions also operate with low noise and vibration, meeting regulations for low environmental impact. In terms of safety, methanol is less prone to ignite than gasoline.

GSMA’s Race To Zero global movement

Smart’s partnership with SerEnergy follows its commitment to the Race to Zero campaign of the United Nations and GSM Association (GSMA), as a member of the trade alliance’s Climate Action Task Force.

The movement of the global industry organization of mobile network operators highlights broad-based commitment to zero emissions from all stakeholders, building back better from the COVID-19 context. Race to Zero is a global campaign that aims to mobilize leadership and support from business cities, regions, and investors for a net zero greenhouse gas emissions economy by 2050, preferably earlier.

“PLDT and Smart have been incorporating sustainable development into our strategies and have adopted relevant practices such as shifting to green technologies, progressively improving operational efficiencies, and pursuing the use of renewable energy in our facilities,” Panlilio said.

Live Smarter for a Better World

Smart’s venture into fuel cell technology for more environment-friendly cell sites is a key pillar of its “Live Smarter for a Better World” campaign. Under the movement, Smart intends to inspire people to commit to sustainable actions with lasting, positive impact to society.

“Being the country’s largest telecommunications company has put us in the best position to give back to society through initiatives that leverage on our integrated technology, digital innovations, and robust network – the fastest in the Philippines,” Panlilio said.

Smart aims to increase public awareness on green energy as it deploys fuel cell -powered sites until the end of 2021. “This initiative underscores what we have communicated in our Better World campaign: That we should strive to save what we can, while we can. Share more knowledge to build, and not to destroy. Show the ways to heal, and not to hurt. That we should strive to live smarter and make the world better, as we have the power to create a better world not just for our individual selves, but for the good of all,” Panlilio detailed.

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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