The Honda Foundation, Inc. (HFI) has marked a significant achievement in its commitment to environmental conservation and community support with the launch of its Tree Planting and Livelihood Program in Barangay Magsaysay, Siniloan, Laguna. This initiative represents a major milestone for Honda as it embarks on a 5-year program to enhance reforestation efforts in the Sierra Madre Mountains.
As part of the initiative, Honda has adopted 28 hectares of the Sierra Madre Mountains under the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) National Greening Program. The project aims to plant 14,000 fruit-bearing trees to contribute to the reforestation and ecological health of the region.
In addition to this, Honda formalized its collaboration through a Memorandum of Agreement signed on March 12, 2024, with DENR Region IV-A and the Magsaysay Coconut Farmers Association (MACOFA). This partnership underscores Honda’s commitment to sustainable development and community engagement.
Honda’s efforts are aligned with the celebration of Arbor Day in the Philippines, a national event dedicated to tree planting held every June. This program not only supports environmental preservation but also promotes the well-being and livelihood of local communities.
Present at the event were the HFI Board of Trustees led by the HFI President and concurrent president of Honda Parts Manufacturing Corp. (HPMC) Mr. Seiji Fujimoto; Honda Philippines, Inc. (HPI) President Ms. Sayaka Arai; Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI) President Ms. Rie Miyake; and Honda Trading Philippines Ecozone, Corp. (HTPE) President Mr. Tomoyuki Mabuchi. The event also received strong support from Mayor Patrick Ellis Go and the community of Siniloan municipality.
The tree planting event saw the enthusiastic participation of approximately 100 volunteers, including Honda employees and support team members, as well as representatives from the Municipal Environment & Natural Resources Office (MENRO), Community Environment & Natural Resources Office (CENRO), Philippine National Police (PNP), and local farmers from the Magsaysay Coconut Farmers Association (MACOFA). By June 21, 2024, over 2,000 trees had been successfully planted as part of this community-driven initiative.
Earlier this year, Honda took significant steps toward its environmental advocacy by partnering with the DENR-CENRO Sta. Cruz and the Municipality of Siniloan, Laguna to conduct a river cleanup in Barangay Macatad. Held on March 22, 2024, in conjunction with World Water Day, this collaborative effort aimed to raise awareness about the importance of preserving freshwater resources. During the event, a total of 240 kg of waste was collected, including 75 kg of biodegradable waste, 150 kg of non-biodegradable waste, and 15 kg of residual waste.
Siniloan River, one of the 21 tributaries of Laguna de Bay, is closely monitored by the Laguna Lake Development Authority. It is a popular spot for recreational activities and a gateway to several waterfalls, with ongoing developments aiming to transform it into an ecotourism site. Recognizing its significance, Honda chose Siniloan River as the focal point for this cleanup drive to support the river’s conservation and enhance the well-being of local residents and visitors.
In addition to environmental initiatives, Honda Foundation, Inc. (HFI) recently launched the TESDA RTC NCR – HONDA ROOM at the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Regional Training Center in Taguig City. This Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program features a dedicated space for Honda motorcycle and automotive training.
The TESDA – HONDA ROOM is designed to provide high-quality education and hands-on experience with Honda technology for instructors and trainees. The initiative aims to uplift the Filipino workforce by improving educational and employment opportunities for disadvantaged youth. Honda plans to use this facility as a TESDA Training and Assessment Center in the future, streamlining the certification process for motorcycle and automotive courses.
On March 20, 2024, TESDA and Honda formalized their partnership with a memorandum of agreement. This collaboration will sustain the offering of motorcycle and automotive mechanical courses, accommodating up to 25 learners per batch. Honda has generously contributed six motorcycle units, two automobile vehicles, lifters, special tools, and classroom furnishings to support this initiative.
The Honda Foundation, Inc. (HFI) is the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) arm for Honda’s various enterprises in the Philippines, including Honda Philippines, Inc. (motorcycles and power products), Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. (automobiles), Honda Parts Manufacturing, Inc. (manufacturing and export), and Honda Trading Philippines Ecozone Corporation (storage and warehousing).
Established as a non-stock, non-profit organization on December 23, 1992, HFI is dedicated to community-centered initiatives. Its core advocacies include Protecting the Environment, Supporting Youth for the Future, Addressing Community Needs, and Promoting Traffic Safety. Driven by a vision to be “a company that society wants to exist,” Honda aims to contribute to a sustainable society through its various social contribution initiatives, enhancing people’s lives worldwide with a commitment to social responsibility.
