CHI bags PCCI eco award

CEBU, Philippines - The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) has recognized the efforts of Cebu Holdings Inc. (CHI) for integrating environmental considerations in its business operations.

CHI was conferred the 2009 Excellence in Economy and Ecology Award (large enterprise category) by the PCCI during the 35th Philippine Business Conference and Expo (PBC&E) held recently in Manila.

CHI’s innovative environmental practices as communicated in its Sustainability and Quality, Environment, Health and Safety policies, programs and activities translated in terms of legislative compliance, reduced environmental risks, improved relations with regulators and the rest of its stakeholders, cost savings, increased market opportunities and employee participation.

Part of CHI’s initiatives was having raised awareness of its best practices on environmental stewardship through communication tools that serve to inspire others.

The award was presented by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo with Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) President Edgardo G. Lacson and the Chairman of the PBC&E Roberto C. Amores and received by CHI President Francis O. Monera and Sustainability Officer Elson R. Homez.

With CHI’s corporate focus and theme for this year, Catalyzing Change: Responding to the Challenges of Sustainable Development, the company’s sustainability strategy and framework have been relevant with the PBC&E theme for this year, “One. Global. Filipino. Regional Economic Development: Frontline to Sustainability”, underscoring the important role of local and regional development in the overall agenda of national economic development against the backdrop of global financial crisis.

Last month, CHI launched its sustainable development campaign, promoting environmental awareness.

“It is time that we involve not only our mall tenants but also the mall-goers on being proactive in helping protect the environment,” said CHI President Francis Monera during the launching of the mall’s “Greenology” campaign recently.

CHI, the developer and operator of Ayala Center Cebu (ACC) shopping, also pioneered a very active move in educating shoppers to embrace full responsibility of environment awareness, through introducing year-long activities that promotes environmental protection. --- Ehda M. Dagooc