MANILA, Philippines - Unilever CEO Paul Polman met with President Benigno Aquino III at the Malacanan Palace yesterday to reaffirm the business’ commitment to the Philippines. This is the Unilever executive’s third official visit here since he first took over the helm of the company in 2009.
“Unilever has deep roots in the Philippines, with more than 1,800 local employees and a history in this country that dates back 87 years. We are committed to supporting the social and economic development of this country through comprehensive sustainability and investment programmes. We have plans in place to expand our manufacturing facilities here, as well as building the technological expertise in foods, personal care, home care, ice cream and refreshment categories,†said Polman.
During his visit, Polman will also present the sustainable living communities program – an initiative to help rehabilitate towns affected by Typhoon Yolanda. The program aims to jumpstart local economies through-entrepreneurship opportunities and skills training with local NGO’s.
“We wish to express our support to the Philippine government in ensuring a brighter future for Filipinos by enhancing their livelihood opportunities and helping build a stronger economy,â€Polman added.
To date, Unilever has donated close to P80 million to relief and rehabilitation efforts post Typhoon Yolanda, via its charitable partners, Unicef, World Food Programme, Save the Children and Oxfam, as well as a number of leading local agencies.
During the official visit, President Aquino was joined by Trade and Industry Secretary Gregory Domingo and Social Welfare and Development Secretary Corazon “Dinky†Soliman. Polman was accompanied by the president of Unilever South East Asia and Australasia (SEAA), Peter Ter-Kulve, Unilever Philippines chairman and CEO Rohit Jawa, VP for corporate affairs Chito Macapagal and VP for customer Development Carl Cruz.