SNAP-Benguet gathers host communities to redefine impact through ESG

SN Aboitiz Power-Benguet (SNAP-Benguet) brought together over 80 representatives from local government units (LGUs) and indigenous peoples’ organizations (IPOs) for its annual Host Communities’ Forum (HCF), anchored on the theme “Redefining Impact: ESG in Community Development.”

This year’s guest speaker, Aboitiz Foundation Chief Operating Officer Mardi Mapa-Suplido, emphasized how environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles are evolving from a corporate framework into a powerful driver of inclusive, accountable, and resilient community development.

SNAP Group President and Chief Executive Officer Joseph Yu reinforced this message, saying, “Redefining impact means building solutions that are resilient, inclusive, and future-ready. Through initiatives such as battery energy storage, hydro, and floating solar, we’re shaping a sustainable energy future while ensuring that progress is shared with our host communities.”

A key highlight of the forum was the presentation of SNAP’s Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) projects. Earlier this year, the 40-MW Binga BESS 1 broke ground, the first in the Cordillera Administrative Region to reach financial close and begin construction. Two more facilities, Binga BESS 2 and Ambuklao BESS, 40 MW each, are set to follow pending regulatory approvals. These projects demonstrate how innovation, guided by ESG commitments, can power communities while contributing to the country’s energy transition.

The forum also showcased the Barangay Health Care Clinic project in Barangay Tikey, Bokod, Benguet, implemented under the Department of Energy’s ER1-94 program and SNAP’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Fund. In addition, through the ER1-94 program, the provincial government completed the construction of the Senior Citizen’s Building in Kapangan, Benguet. Both projects directly contribute to improving the health and welfare of community members.

Representing the host municipalities, Itogon Mayor Bernard Waclin and Bokod Mayor Eric Donn Ignacio expressed gratitude for SNAP’s continued support.  Mayor Ignacio said, “With this ESG framework in mind, we will deliver projects that have a lasting impact on our people.” Mayor Waclin noted that the annual forum helps ensure that SNAP-funded projects are aligned with the needs of his constituents.

The annual HCF once again served as a bridge for dialogue, collaboration, and accountability —strengthening partnerships between SNAP and its host communities for a more sustainable future.#