Dole Philippines Inc. (Stanfilco Division) marked a significant milestone in its commitment to community development today with the groundbreaking ceremony for a proposed day care center in Barangay Buenavida, Makilala, North Cotabato, July 15.
The building project, co-funded by the Dole Community Multi-Purpose Cooperative (DCo-MPC) and managed by Kasilak Development Foundation, was launched in coordination with the local government and its major development partners 512th Engineer Construction Battalion and 39th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army.
The future facility will provide a safe, nurturing, and educational environment for young children in the barangay—many of whom currently attend classes in overcrowded or makeshift venues.
During the ceremony, Dole-Stanfilco’s Employee Engagement and Corporate Citizenship Manager Jong Oville emphasized the company’s long-term vision for inclusive growth. “This project is part of our ongoing mission to give back to the communities that support our operations. We believe that investing in early childhood education helps lay the foundation for a more empowered and resilient future generation.”
Kasilak Foundation executive director Obet Tubigon reported that this facility is “designed to meet standards for early childhood care and development, featuring a child-friendly space with learning materials aimed at supporting the holistic and functional development of children in this community.”
For its part, providing the construction manpower and expertise, 512ECB commanding officer LTC Johnny Gabica, as represented by Capt. Raymart Yurong, highlighted the importance of public-private collaboration in addressing grassroots needs, where peace paves the way for this development initiative.
Barangay leaders expressed appreciation for the initiative even as DCo-MPC officials are thankful for the opportunity to invest in children’s future.
Construction is expected to be completed within 2 months with operations to begin shortly thereafter.
Dole-Stanfilco and DCo-MPC also donated through Kasilak Foundation another Day Care Center in Brgy. Indangan recently.
This project forms part of Dole’s broader CSR strategy, which includes initiatives in education, health, environmental protection, and livelihood development—all focused on creating sustainable and inclusive value for the communities where the company operates.
Source: Sunshine Online (Original Post)
