Renewable energy provider SN Aboitiz Power-Benguet, Inc. (SNAP-Benguet) has strengthened its commitment to the indigenous peoples (IP) communities of Itogon, Benguet, with the turnover of additional benefits to the Tinongdan Indigenous Peoples Organization (TINPO) on December 18, 2024, followed by the Itogon Indigenous Peoples Organization (IIPO) on December 23, 2024.
The additional benefits were shared based on a 60-40 split as agreed upon by the IPOs, with TINPO receiving 60%, amounting to PhP3,808,530.00, and IIPO receiving 40%, equivalent to PhP2,539,020.00.
SNAP-Benguet provided PhP5 million for special CSR projects for the first three years, which was allocated to the Tinongdan Indigenous Peoples Organization (TINPO) as agreed upon by both IP groups. For succeeding years, PhP1 million will be awarded to barangays as determined by the two IPOs.
The additional benefits – the result of direct negotiations between SNAP-Benguet and the IP organizations (IPOs) – are intended to help the IPOs implement development and capability-programs within their Ancestral Domain, preserve their cultural heritage, and support similar initiatives. This forms part of SNAP-Benguet’s long-standing partnership with the indigenous cultural communities that host the 140-MW Binga hydroelectric power plant. SNAP-Benguet has committed to providing the Itogon ancestral domain with approximately PhP10.3 million in total benefits annually starting in 2024.
“On behalf of the COELs [Council of Elders], we want to express our gratitude to SNAP for the support,” said TINPO Chieftain Norberto Pacio. “We now have the benefits that we have been waiting for.”
Mrs. Rosita Bargaso, IIPO Chair, said, “Salamat sa SNAP at sana ay magtagal pa ang magandang samahan nating dalawa. (We thank SNAP and hope our partnership lasts even longer.)”
SNAP-Benguet assumed ownership and operation of the Binga hydroelectric facility in 2008 through a successful privatization bid. Following this transition, the company conducted consultations with the IP communities, which culminated in an agreement to provide benefits through a corporate social responsibility program. To date, SNAP has provided PhP37.2 million in benefits to TINPO, reflecting the company’s commitment to fostering sustainable development and empowering its host communities while advancing renewable energy in the region.
