Holcim, ASKI Expand Partnership for Resilient Housing

Holcim Philippines, Inc. and Alalay sa Kaunlaran Microfinance Social Development, Inc. (ASKI Microfinance) are expanding their partnership to support the construction and renovation of disaster-resilient homes in Nueva Ecija. This initiative aims to help at least 30 families strengthen their homes against extreme weather conditions, building on the success of a similar program in 2023 that assisted 37 families in Aurora.

The partnership, which was formalized on September 13, brings together Holcim, a leading building solutions provider, ASKI Foundation, and ASKI Microfinance. Holcim will fund the project, while ASKI Foundation will handle community outreach and provide training for local masons on using the right materials, including Holcim’s Excel ECOPlanet cement, TectorCeram Skimcoat, and TectorPlast Tile Adhesives. The project also aims to educate residents on efficient material usage to lower construction costs.

Sam Manlosa, Jr., Chief Sustainability Officer at Holcim Philippines, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership’s expansion, citing the broader impact on climate resilience.

“We are excited to expand our successful partnership with ASKI and ASKI Foundation to help build resilient homes for the most vulnerable in the Philippines. This initiative gives us a more holistic contribution to climate action and complements our ongoing efforts to decarbonize operations. This program also shows the value of integrating sustainability into the business for positive results and social impact,” Manlosa said.

ASKI Microfinance, known for providing financial access to underserved communities, will extend home-strengthening microloans to qualified clients in Nueva Ecija, ensuring that homes are built or renovated using Holcim’s products for enhanced resilience.

Jane Manucdoc, Executive Director of ASKI Microfinance, highlighted the importance of the program in fostering safer, more resilient communities.

“As a social development advocate, there is no greater joy than seeing clients uplift their lives and live peaceably within the safety of their homes. The ASKI and Holcim Resilient Housing Program is dedicated to providing livable, resilient, and affordable homes for families in need,” Manucdoc stated. “This initiative not only addresses the critical need for housing but also ensures that these homes are built to withstand natural disasters, offering long-term safety and stability.”

ASKI Foundation, founded in 1986 by Christian business leaders in Nueva Ecija, has grown into a key development organization, providing microfinancing to rural communities and overseas Filipino workers. With a portfolio of PHP 1.7 billion and 92 branches across Regions 1, 2, and 3, ASKI serves over 100,000 clients and insures more than 800,000 individuals and families.

The partnership aims to create sustainable, disaster-resilient housing for vulnerable families, supporting the broader mission of building stronger communities and contributing to the Philippines’ climate action goals.