AboitizPower Initiative Boosts Livelihood for Persons with Disabilities in Davao de Oro
In a significant step toward economic inclusion, the Maco Association of Differently Abled Persons (Madap) successfully completed a four-day Tsinelas Making Training for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), sponsored by AboitizPower subsidiary Therma Marine, Inc. (TMI) Mobile 1. The event, held from January 27 to 30, 2026, at the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Drop-In Center in Barangay Binuangan, Maco, Davao de Oro, resulted in the production of 72 pairs of indoor slippers, showcasing the participants' newfound skills and dedication.
Empowering PWDs Through Practical Skills
The training aimed to equip PWDs with valuable livelihood skills, enabling them to contribute to local economic growth. Most of the crafted tsinelas have already been sold to residents in Maco, with plans underway to expand the market to neighboring towns, including the local government unit workforce. This initiative not only provides a source of income but also fosters self-reliance and community integration for the participants.
Benedicto Dejan Jr, TMI Mobile 1 Senior Manager for Operations and Maintenance, emphasized the program's broader impact: "By supporting programs like this, we hope to empower persons with disabilities, help them unlock their full potential, and enable them to contribute to the town's economic prosperity." His statement underscores AboitizPower's commitment to corporate social responsibility and sustainable development in the region.
Community Collaboration and Future Prospects
Madap President Jesus Apas praised the efforts of AP TMI Mobile 1 and the Maco local government unit, assuring full participation in future training and workshops. He highlighted the program's transformative effect, stating in Filipino: "This program does not only provide livelihood, but also gives dignity, self-confidence, and inspiration to continue striving in life." This sentiment reflects the holistic benefits of the training, which goes beyond mere economic gains to enhance personal well-being and social inclusion.
The collaboration involved key figures such as Madap members Leonale Aduca, Gideon Salot, Ranilo Rapaya, Joel Catayoc, Manuel Saruca, Regie Pacres, Randy Barro, Christine Larieta, Julito Jorgio, and Ellie Ian Tagalog, along with Persons-with-Disabilities Focal Person Jaymar Suday from MSWDO, Trainor Delria Asumbrado, and TMI Reputation and Stakeholder Management Operations Specialist Ralph Arellano. Their collective efforts ensured the program's success and set a precedent for future initiatives.
Therma Marine's Role in Mindanao's Power Stability
Therma Marine operates two 100-megawatt oil-fired power barges in Maco, Davao de Oro (Mobile 1) and Nasipit, Agusan del Norte (Mobile 2). As of 2025, it remains a vital contributor to Mindanao's power stability, supplying 40 percent of the contingency reserve requirement and 28 percent of dispatchable reserves. This training program aligns with the company's broader mission to support community development and resilience in areas where it operates.
Published on February 16, 2026, this initiative marks a positive step toward inclusive growth, demonstrating how corporate partnerships can drive meaningful change for marginalized groups. With ongoing plans for market expansion and continued training, the future looks promising for PWDs in Maco and beyond.
