Hedcor, a hydropower company and subsidiary of AboitizPower Corporation (AboitizPower), strengthened its ties with the indigenous peoples (IP) groups of the Province of Bukidnon by helping renovate their tribal halls as a place of convergence and collaboration.

In separate ceremonies held recently, Hedcor turned over these reconditioned tribal halls to various IP groups in the province, specifically the Lumikapaw Ka Guihean Tribal Council of Elders in Barangay Guihean, Municipality of Impasugong; Guilang-Guilang Apo Datu Nanikunan Association Inc. in Barangay Guilang-Guilang; Santiago Tribal Community (SANTRICO), Inc. in Barangay Santiago; and Impakibel, Apo Man Asilan Tribal Association in Barangay Maluko, Municipality of Manolo Fortich.

“This is where all the plans for the IP communities will be created, this is where the tribe’s future lies and which the people can call their own,” Hedcor President and COO Rolando G. Pacquiao said, underscoring the importance of the structure in preserving the tribe’s culture.

“We look forward to a continued partnership with our indigenous peoples and count on their support to achieve our mutual goal of driving change for a more sustainable future for the country,” he added.

The newly refurbished tribal halls will serve as a venue for the tribes’ gatherings, meetings and learnings among many other functions. Its design depicts an architectural style that’s traditional and goes according to the needs of the indigenous tribes.

Expressing his gratitude to Hedcor, Datu Delfin Abunda of Barangay Guihean said that the project is a manifestation of Hedcor’s advocacy of uplifting the lives of the IP communities.

“Our sincere gratitude and highest respect to Hedcor for always prioritizing us…This would empower us, IPs, to strive even more in fostering unity and strengthen our roles as Hedcor’s partner in peace and development,” the tribal chieftain stated.

Hedcor is the run-of-river hydropower arm of AboitizPower, managing and operating 22 hydropower plants that generate 278-megawatts (MW) of clean and renewable energy.