CIMB Bank Philippines recently wrapped up a mangrove reforestation initiative in collaboration with Communities Organized for Resource Allocation (CORA), a non-profit organization dedicated to developing sustainable programs to tackle global issues like climate change.
The bank generously contributed mangrove seedlings to a community in need, aiming to support environmental conservation efforts and combat the critical problem of coastal ecosystem degradation. The recipients of these seedlings were the WoMangrove Warriors in Leyte, a group of women sustaining their livelihood by planting mangroves in coastal villages.
In the weeks leading up to the turnover ceremony, CIMB Bank PH employees engaged in enjoyable and straightforward activities to “earn” a seedling. These accumulated seedlings were then donated to CORA by the bank on behalf of its employees. The ceremony marked the successful conclusion of the month-long mangrove seedling drive at the CIMB office in Taguig, where CORA also delivered a brief talk on sustainability.
CIMB Bank PH Chief Marketing Officer D’Artagnan Aguilar emphasized, “Our journey towards sustainability is paved by these small actions that will have a significant impact on the communities we serve.” Aguilar highlighted CIMB’s commitment to environmental preservation, acknowledging the bank’s naturally light carbon footprint due to its digital-only banking model. However, he emphasized that their efforts extend beyond, expressing a commitment to making a more substantial contribution to environmental preservation and actively engaging in similar causes.
CORA Founder and Executive Director Antoinette Taus expressed gratitude for the partnership with CIMB Bank PH, emphasizing the crucial role of mangroves as vital ecosystems providing ecological, social, and economic benefits. Mangroves act as natural barriers against coastal erosion, protect communities from storm surges, and support diverse wildlife.
The CIMB Group, CIMB Bank PH’s principal in Malaysia, prioritizes sustainability practices across its entities. The group sets milestones and commits to tangible steps to address sustainability challenges, encouraging employees throughout the ASEAN region to champion actions that mitigate negative impacts and foster positive change in the areas where they operate.
