Melo Villareal
Cebu Pacific Foundation Launches to Strengthen Communities, Restore Nature, and Support Sustainable Tourism
As Cebu Pacific celebrates its 30th anniversary, the airline is extending its long-standing mission of connecting people and places beyond air travel by launching Cebu Pacific Foundation Inc. (CPFI).
MANGROVE SITE. Coastal area in Roxas City where Cebu Pacific Foundation, Inc.’s pioneer project will be implemented.
The newly established Foundation aims to help build stronger and more resilient communities while advancing sustainable tourism through nature-based solutions. Working with local organizations, the private sector, civil society, development institutions, and government partners, CPFI will support initiatives that reduce disaster and climate risks, protect ecosystems, strengthen livelihoods, and create opportunities for sustainable local economies.
“For three decades, Cebu Pacific has connected people, places, and opportunities. Through our Foundation, we hope to build on that role by connecting people on the ground with the institutions, expertise, and resources they need to protect the natural environments that sustain them and create better opportunities for their families,” said Xander Lao, CPFI Chairman and President.
Restoring Coastal Communities in Capiz
The Foundation’s first major initiative is the Resilience & Inclusive Support for Empowerment of Capiz Coastal Communities Project, or RISE Capiz Coast Project.
The project will begin in Barangay Culajao in Roxas City before expanding to other areas in the city and the municipalities of Ivisan and Panay in Capiz.
One of its key goals is to restore 100 hectares of degraded coastal areas through mangrove rehabilitation, with a long-term target of restoring 500 hectares by 2030.
Beyond restoring coastal ecosystems, the initiative will provide capacity-building programs focused on sustainable livelihoods, disaster risk reduction, and climate change adaptation, as well as other interventions designed around the needs of communities that depend on the coast for their income and way of life.
From left to right: Elezandra Almeida (KACUSA), Joanna Clarito (KACUSA), Amy Alcazaren (KACUSA), Christopher Dasal (KACUSA), Charon Fabrigar (KACUSA), Camille Vergara (Project Manager, Futures Inc.), Pocholo Espina (Country Manager, Futures Inc.), and Jean Racraquin (KACUSA).
Reviving Livelihoods and Eco-Tourism Opportunities
For the Katunggan sa Culajao Salbaron Association, Inc. (KACUSA), which leads local stewardship efforts in Barangay Culajao, the RISE Capiz Coast Project represents an opportunity to restore both the environment and community livelihoods.
The area was severely affected by Typhoon Yolanda, which disrupted ecotourism activities and damaged key income sources for local residents.
“We were greatly affected by Typhoon Yolanda, disrupting our eco-tourism activities and our income sources. We are grateful and hopeful that this partnership will not only restore our mangrove forests, but also help revive tourism, strengthen our economic situation, and create new opportunities for our families,” said Christopher Dasal, KACUSA President.
The project will be implemented in partnership with Futures, Inc., a Japan-based climate finance-linked project developer, and the Zoological Society of London (ZSL), an international conservation organization.
Connecting Communities Beyond Air Travel
Through Cebu Pacific Foundation, the airline is expanding its role in connecting people and opportunities beyond flights and destinations.
The Foundation’s work reflects the growing importance of protecting natural environments while ensuring that communities can benefit from sustainable economic opportunities. By supporting ecosystem restoration, climate resilience, local livelihoods, and sustainable tourism, CPFI aims to help communities build a stronger future while protecting the natural resources that sustain them.
The Foundation also welcomes collaborations with organizations and individuals committed to creating meaningful environmental and economic outcomes through shared expertise, resources, investments, and local leadership.
For partnership inquiries, participation in Foundation initiatives, or investment in impact opportunities, interested parties may contact Voltaire P. Alferez, CPFI Executive Director, at contact@cebupacificfoundation.org.
More information about the Foundation is available through Cebu Pacific Foundation.
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