Converge ICT Solutions Inc., a leading fiber broadband and technology provider, celebrated the 2024 holiday season with a commitment to environmental sustainability. Partnering with the Energy Development Corporation (EDC), Converge planted around 600 Philippine teak seedlings in Lobo, Batangas, a critical conservation site for this endangered species.

The activity, held in December, gathered 53 participants, including Converge employees and suppliers. The effort supports the preservation of the 200-hectare Philippine teak conservation site while reinforcing Converge’s agenda for environmental stewardship.

“This partnership with EDC’s Binhi program allows us to address UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Nos. 13, 15, and 1. It’s our way of giving back to the planet while fostering positive community impact,” said Converge Community Relations Manager Jennifer Ambanta-Realubit.

She emphasized the initiative’s role in reducing holiday carbon footprints and engaging employees to appreciate the company’s sustainability commitments.

The partnership aligns with EDC’s Binhi program, the country’s largest private-sector-led forest restoration initiative. Now in its 15th year, the program has 222 partner organizations working to restore forests and rescue threatened tree species.

“We are proud to collaborate with Converge, a fellow advocate for environmental stewardship. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to sustainability, with Converge’s headquarters in Pasig powered by our geothermal plant,” said EDC Partnership Officer Soleil Acu.

Converge aimed to plant 4,000 trees by the end of 2024, a goal it has surpassed. The initiative began in 2021 with tree-planting efforts in Sapang Bato, Pampanga, and culminated with the Batangas activity.

To formalize their collaboration, Converge and EDC plan to sign a Memorandum of Agreement in early 2025, paving the way for future projects in forest restoration and other environmental causes.

“This partnership is a step toward adapting to a lower-carbon economy. We look forward to more forest preservation projects and broader environmental initiatives in the coming years,” said Converge VP and Corporate Communications Head Jay-Anne Encarnado.

Converge’s greener holidays underscore its commitment to sustainability, fostering a culture of environmental responsibility while creating a lasting impact for the planet and future generations.