Ayala Foundation’s long-running Iraya Mangyan Integrated Community Development Program was honored at the 2025 League of Corporate Foundations (LCF) CSR Guild Awards. The program, based in Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro, was recognized for its holistic and sustained approach to inclusive development. Ayala Foundation’s President, Tony Lambino, who accepted the award on behalf of the foundation, expressed deep gratitude to the many partners whose unwavering support has made the program possible. These include the Sisters of Charity of St. Anne, the LGU of Puerto Galera and its Municipal Tourism Office, the LGU Oriental Mindoro Provincial Government through the Oriental Mindoro Heritage and Cultural Center, the Mangyan Mission, the Mangyan Heritage Center, the Department of Education–Puerto Galera District, Seda Hotels, Ayala Malls, and the Zobel family.
At the heart of this initiative is the enduring legacy of the late Doña Bea Zóbel de Ayala, whose deep love for the Iraya Mangyan community began well before the foundation’s involvement. Drawn to the people and their way of life, she was a staunch supporter of the community, eventually working with Ayala Foundation in 1991 to expand efforts that would both uplift the community and honor their heritage.
The enterprise development program targets four main areas:
- Skills Training, including nito weaving, beaded bag sewing, and eco-cultural tour guiding
- Product Development
- Access to Markets through Ayala Malls and Seda Hotels
- Financial Literacy through training in financial management and entrepreneurship
Through these efforts, livelihood participants have seen a 516% increase in income since the program began. In 2024 alone, the program generated over Php 4.6 million in gross sales and participated in five bazaars and trade fairs, including the Ayala Land Malls Christmas Bazaar Holiday Promo. Products are now available across Ayala Malls, Seda Hotels, and online platforms. Nearly 11,000 tourists also visited the community last year, transforming cultural heritage into a source of pride and prosperity. Aside from sustainable livelihood initiatives, the foundation also provides support for the Iraya Mangyan community through education and healthcare programs.
Ayala Foundation remains committed to sustaining and expanding this impact. Efforts are underway to introduce new training programs in motor repair and agriculture, strengthening design and marketing capabilities, and deepening community ownership of the enterprise to ensure that the Iraya Mangyan themselves lead the next phase of growth with confidence and self-sufficiency.
“This program speaks directly to this year’s conference theme: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusivity for Shared Prosperity,” said Lambino during his acceptance speech. “By empowering indigenous artisans, honoring their cultural identity, and ensuring that they have access to opportunities, we are working together toward building a thriving community toward shared prosperity.”
In addition, a joint project on financial inclusion of BPI Foundation and Ayala Foundation was recognized as a finalist as was the Ayala Museum’s 50th Anniversary campaign at this year’s LCF Awards, marking another proud moment for Ayala Foundation and its continued commitment to collaboration and promoting arts and culture.
