EEI Corp. Head of Corporate Strategy and Communication Jesus Teodoro C. Reyes received the Golden Arrow Award on behalf of the company at the Manila Marriott Hotel on September 19.

Â鶹´«Ã½, one of the country’s leading and renowned construction companies, was recently recognized with a Golden Arrow Award for its good corporate governance and international best practices from the Institute of Corporate Directors (ICD) Philippines. ICD is recognized as a national and international resource for corporate governance content.

As a top-performing publicly listed company, EEI received an ASEAN Corporate Governance Scorecard (ACGS) of 80-89 points which qualified the company for a one-arrow recognition. The ACGS measures the performance of companies in terms of facilitating the rights and equitable treatment of shareholders, how they relate to different stakeholders, ensuring transparency and accountability through timely disclosure of material information. It also assessed how the board monitors the management and guides the company strategically. The award aims to raise the corporate governance standards and practices of the country making wellgoverned Philippine publicly listed companies attractive to investors.

EEI sees this award as an affirmation of their commitment to best practices in corporate governance. “The Golden Arrow Award is emblematic of EEI’s dedication to not just comply but to apply the best practices in corporate governance.

We acknowledge our accountability to our stakeholders and we will continue to uphold transparency in our investments and movements. This award is relevant and meaningful because it builds and strengthens the trust and confidence that our diverse group of stakeholders have for EEI,� said Jesus T. Reyes, EEI Corp. Head of Corporate Strategy and Communication.

EEI is a 93-year-old company which has a broad range of construction and engineering services, with expertise in the construction of infrastructure, buildings, and industrial and electromechanical facilities. Years of contracting and collaborating with global contractors, particularly in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia Pacific countries, have enabled EEI to achieve excellent project management expertise and competencies in all fields and disciplines of construction. EEI currently has 24,000 employees working across its several projects in the Philippines and overseas.

Construction giant EEI Corp. bags an award at the Investment in People category of the Asia Responsible Enterprise Awards (AREA) 2024 held recently at Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam. The award-giving body recognizes and honors deserving Asian businesses for championing sustainable and responsible business practices.

EEI’s Investment in People category win at AREA 2024 is a testament to the company’s commitment to take care of the well-being of their people, provide them dignity and treat them as partners to inspire productivity, sustainability and growth.

As a 93-year-old leading institution in the industry, EEI continues to strive not only to deliver quality services to clients but also to respond to the needs of the community and look after the welfare of its employees.

In 2023, for the “EEI for the People� initiative, EEI made transformational initiatives that positioned the company towards improved profitability and growth which strengthened its key pillars: governance and processes, financial health and people. The HR organization restructured to address the needs around performance management, recruitment, training and development.

It started with the launch of Values-to-Virtues Workshop, which empowered around 607 employees (as of December 2023) and the establishment of a 500-bed EEI Training Facility in Tanza, Cavite. A Management Training Program for high potential engineers was also rolled out to aid the company’s succession planning requirements.

That same year, EEI also unveiled a scholarship program with children of the workers as beneficiaries and introduced a loan program to extend financial assistance to project workers and protect them from predatory loan providers.

The company initiative kickstarted during the pandemic when it redesigned operations and processes to adapt to the crisis. EEI made sure to safeguard the livelihood and income of employees and dependents as well as those of suppliers, vendors, clients, partners, stakeholders and relevant communities.

EEI consistently implements programs and activities that support social advocacy matters, community relations, public health and safety, and environment protection. EEI Vice President for People Performance and Culture (formerly HR) Ivan Santamaria was on hand to receive the award in Vietnam and expressed his gratitude for the recognition.

“We are thankful and honored for this recognition that the Asia Responsible Enterprise Awards bestowed on EEI. It is a good reminder of our commitment to continue to be a company that leads the industry in taking care of its people EEI will not achieve its record of excellence and sustain our industry leadership and reputation without the hard work and dedication of our employees. This award is also an affirmation that we are on the right track in implementing programs that will take care of the welfare of the people both within and outside of our organization and help uplift lives,� Santamaria remarked.

EEI is a 93-year-old company which has a broad range of construction and engineering services, with expertise in the construction of infrastructure, buildings, and industrial and electromechanical facilities. Years of contracting and collaborating with global contractors, particularly in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia Pacific countries, have enabled EEI to achieve world-caliber project management expertise and competencies in all fields and disciplines of construction. EEI currently has 24,000 employees working across its several construction projects in the Philippines and overseas.

Construction giant Â鶹´«Ã½ (EEI) recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Concrete Stone Corp. (CSC), for its precast concrete requirements to be utilized for multiple mega infrastructure projects. With this MoU, CSC will be providing EEI's precast requirements for Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

The MoU signing, held recently in Makati City, was attended by EEI Vice President for Infrastructure, Roman M. Lapuz, EEI Senior Vice President for Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Security, and Facilities Department, Earl Jason R. Vistro, President of Concrete Stone Corporation, Alfredo L. Comendador Jr., and Industry Holdings and Development Corporation Chief Financial Officer, Jan Michael Lim.

“We are excited with the potential synergies between EEI and CSC. We look forward to a strong collaboration that bolsters our commitment to deliver quality and remarkable infrastructure projects that shape the Philippine landscape and contribute to the country’s connectivity, economic growth and nation-building,� said EEI President and CEO, Henry D. Antonio.

“We are honored to partner with Â鶹´«Ã½ and serve their precast requirements. Thanks to the size of our precast facilities nationwide, we can support EEI's extensive precast requirements for vital infrastructure projects across the Philippines,â€� said Alfredo L. Comendador Jr., President of Concrete Stone Corporation.

EEI is recognized as one of the leading construction companies in the Philippines with multiple mega infrastructure projects in the pipeline including big-ticket railway projects. The 93-year-old company has a broad range of construction and engineering services, with expertise in the construction of infrastructure, buildings, and industrial and electromechanical facilities.

CSC is a corporation engaged in the manufacturing and supply of construction solution materials. Its products include aggregates, precast, cement and asphalt. CSC aims to make a positive impact through a sustainable and socio-economic business approach to be able to cater to the growing market of construction materials. IHDC is the parent company of CSC.

Construction giant EEI Corp. recently made it official with Cavitex Infrastructure Corporation (CIC) by signing the P1.79 billion project contract for the construction of CAVITEX-CALAX link segment four.

The contract signing was attended by Â鶹´«Ã½ Senior Vice President for Contracts and Commercial Division Anna Payawal Figuera, EEI Vice President for Commercial Division Christopher F. Esguerra, CIC President and General Manager Raul L. Ignacio, CIC Vice President for Finance Elnora D. Rumawak and Metro Pacific Tollways Corp. (MPTC) President and CEO Rogelio D. Singson.

In an earlier report submitted to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), EEI disclosed that the company received the Letter of Acceptance issued by the CIC for the construction of the CAVITEX-CALAX Link (Segment 4 Extension) Project for a total contract price of P1,791,542,140.01. MPTC unit CIC stated that the segment four extension is set to connect Cavitex (Manila-Cavite Expressway) and Calax (Cavite-Laguna Expressway).

Under the contract, EEI’s scope of work covers remeasurement and the construction of the 1.2 kilometer, 2x2-lane carriageway from the terminus of Segment 4 in Tirona Highway to connect to CALAX. The scope of work also covers the Kawit Toll admin compound and access road. In the detailed scope of works, component includes a main alignment ramp, a main alignment elevated viaduct, Roads 1-3, and an intersection improvement in the affected portion of the Centennial Road. The duration of the project is 450 days.

“EEI, as one of the country’s leading and most established construction firms, remains committed to our role in nation-building. This latest win is a vote of trust and confidence in EEI’s expertise and experience from our partners MPTC and CIC. It is doubly meaningful not just because it’s a welcome business development but also because it enables us to share and synergize with our partners when it comes to this shared vision of doing projects that help support economic growth, improve connectivity and uplift the quality of lives of Filipinos. It is an honor to serve the private sector and the public,� EEI Corp. President and CEO Henry D. Antonio stated.

EEI is a 93-year-old company which has a broad range of construction and engineering services, with expertise in the construction of infrastructure, buildings, and industrial and electromechanical facilities. Years of contracting and collaborating with global contractors, particularly in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia Pacific countries, have enabled EEI to achieve world-caliber project management expertise and competencies in all fields and disciplines of construction. EEI currently has 24,000 employees working across its several construction projects in the Philippines and overseas.

The ceremony was attended by key executives and guests spearheaded by Department of Energy’s (DOE) Energy Utilization Management Bureau Director (CESO III) Patrick Aquino, SM Prime Holdings Vice President and Head of Commercial Properties Group (CPG) Alexis Ortiga, SMDC Senior Vice President and Head of Property Management Erickberth Calupe, SM CPG Assistant Vice President and Head of Property Operations Alvin Briones, SM CPG Senior Assistant Vice President and Head of Estates Orliber Paule, Electric Vehicle Association of the Philippines (EVAP) Executive Director Jose Bienvenido Manuel Biona, SysNet President and CEO Joel Sapul, and EEI Power Corporation President, Cris Noel Torres.

Each SM Offices E-com Center is installed with a single plug Type 2 7KW AC charger which has the following features: secured access control of EV charging, user behavior logging, eMobility and roaming capability, usage and utilization report, remote view support, ParkNcharge mobile app with navigation, and DOE’s (evindustry.ph) website visibility. The EV charging stations initially charge P28 per kWh (VAT excluded), a rate that is 60% cheaper than fuel compared to Internal-combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles. Users of the EV charging stations can pay through e-wallet cashless mode via GCash, Maya or Credit cards. “ParkNcharge of SysNet and EEI is committed to support innovative efforts and bring sustainable transportation closer to Filipinos. It is a privilege and an honor to participate in endeavors that help the government to not only comply but fully support EVIDA as we navigate a world with electric vehicles as part of our lives not just in today’s landscape but also as we move towards a future of sustainability,� Cris Noel Torres, EEI Power Corporation President, says.

This commitment was echoed by SysNet.

"The three ParkNcharge charging stations at SM Offices’ buildings are testaments to our mission to bring convenience to EV users when they are away from home. This will address range anxiety issues and accelerate EV adoption in these buildings. This kind of deployment will help contribute to attaining half of the zero-emission target for local transportation in the Philippines by 2040. We will continue to expand and sign up more buildings to reach this goal," Joel Z. Sapul, SysNet President and CEO, says.

The recent launch of the E-com Center EV charging stations is an offshoot of EPC and SysNet’s official agreement last year to install Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) and to manage the charging stations in the Philippines.

The joint venture aims to help developers, property managers and their establishments adopt quickly to the new Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (EVIDA) and to simplify the operations, monetization, and management of EV Charging Stations. EVIDA or Republic Act (RA) 11697 aims to promote innovation in the field of clean energy and sustainable transportation while developing a sunrise industry in the country and generating more employment.

Alexis Ortiga, SM CPG Head, says, “By integrating these charging stations into our buildings, SM Offices reinforces its commitment to meet environmental standards and address the evolving needs of our tenant-partners. We look forward to expanding our network of EV chargers, making green transportation options more accessible and convenient for everyone."

The solar rooftop system, comprised of 264 units of 550 watt-peak monocrystalline photovoltaic solar panels, is anticipated to yield an average annual energy output of 183,680kWh. Additionally, it is projected to curtail carbon emission by approximately 128 metric tons annually, equivalent to planting 2,150 trees. Over its 25-year lifespan, the PV system is estimated to save DDVMH up to Php 20 million in electricity expenses.

The signing ceremony was graced by key representatives from both Dagupan Doctors Villaflor Memorial Hospital and EEI Power Corporation, attesting to their common belief on sustainable energy future as an important pillar of the global drive to address climate change.

During the contract signing ceremony, Dr. Vivencio Jose P. Villaflor III, Hospital and Medical Director of DDVMH, emphasized the hospital's commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable development through the adoption of clean energy sources such as this solar rooftop system we are installing in our premises through this partnership with EEI Power.

Meanwhile, according to EEI Power’s General Manager Salvador M. Salire, Jr., “It is our privilege to have been given the opportunity to partner with a well-respected healthcare institution like Dagupan Doctors Villaflor Memorial Hospital for this environment-friendly initiative which aligns with our dedication in providing accessible and cost-effective solutions.�

A part of the Mount Grace Hospitals, Inc. network, DDVMH is a private 100-bed tertiary hospital sprawling across a two-hectare area in Dagupan City. It boasts of a team of over 150 highlytrained medical consultants and paramedical staff. Recognized for its adherence to the latest healthcare standards, the hospital is renowned for delivering professional and personalized patient care comparable to leading institutions in the region.

EEI Power's offerings extend beyond solar solutions to encompass a range of power-related products and services, including high, medium, and low voltage equipment, as well as preventive maintenance, upgrades, power quality analysis, among others. EEI Power is accredited as an electro-mechanical contractor by the Philippine Contractors Accreditation Board and registered as an Energy Service Company (ESCO) with the Department of Energy.

This project came into fruition out of the joint marketing efforts of EEI Power and Nippon Steel Trading Corporation's Manila office.

Comprised of 428 pieces of VSUN 550-watts monocrystalline solar photovoltaic panels, the 235.44kWp Solar PV Rooftop System is estimated to produce 297,330kWh annually and is anticipated to mitigate I-PEX’s carbon footprint by an estimated 116 metric tons a year. This is equivalent to saving 50,675 liters of gasoline annually and planting 3,480 new trees. Additionally, the system will reduce I-PEX's reliance on conventional energy sources. This eco-friendly project aligns with the global push towards renewable energy solutions and showcases both EEIPC's and IPEX's dedication to environmental stewardship.

According to Mr. Takeshi Hanazawa, Vice-President of I-PEX Philippines, "Our partnership with EEI Power on this solar rooftop project is a testament to our dedication to environmental sustainability and innovation. This is aligned with our goal of reducing our carbon footprint and showcase the importance of adopting eco-conscious solutions. We look forward to the positive impact this project will have on both our business and the environment, setting an example for responsible corporate practices in the country."

EEI Power affirms the partnership of both companies on sustainability endeavors.

"We are thrilled to work with I-PEX Philippines on this worthwhile initiative. By harnessing the power of the sun, we are confident that I-PEX will not only enjoy long-term cost savings but also set a remarkable example for other businesses to adopt sustainable energy practices," Salvador M. Salire, Jr., General Manager of EEI Power, says.

I-PEX is renowned for its diverse range of products and services, catering to various industries. The company specializes in designing and manufacturing of connectors, sensors, and semiconductor manufacturing equipment. Over its 60-year history, I-PEX excels in the manufacturing of precision plastic molded products for automotive and computer applications while supplying an array of manufacturing equipment.

EEI Power, on the other hand, is a power generation company that also offers a wide range of electrical equipment, services and solutions. As part of its commitment to sustainability and green energy initiatives, it has been establishing itself in the solar rooftop space. EEI Power is a registered Energy Service Company at the Department of Energy and a licensed electromechanical contractor by the Philippine Contractors Accreditation Board.

Vision 2030 is Saudi Arabia’s masterplan to transform and diversify its economy by shifting away from its reliance on oil and focusing on other future growth industries. By 2030, Saudi aims to achieve three main goals: move away from economic reliance on oil, uplift the lives of its people and sustain its place on the global stage.

As Saudi Arabia continues to make progress on Vision 2030, EEI is keen to participate on the rise of potential civil, infrastructure, oil and gas business as well as employment opportunities for Filipinos.

“EEI would like to be present and help in the Vision 2030 endeavors of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Saudi is projected to make heavy investments towards construction projects like water systems, treatment facilities, roads, bridges and livable spaces to accommodate the growing needs of its population and the demands of its vibrant economy. Saudi is also beefing up its transportation sector and we are optimistic that EEI will be able to contribute to the infrastructure development of the Kingdom. EEI’s vast experience and reliability in projects with our international partners is further evidence of our excellence and readiness to undertake massive projects here and abroad,â€� Â鶹´«Ã½ President and CEO Henry D. Antonio says.

“While it is exciting for EEI to seek and work on prospects for various projects under Saudi’s Vision 2030 plans, one of the most fulfilling tasks we have at the company is in providing overseas work opportunities for Filipinos. The multiplier effect of Saudi’s grand plan can also mean a great demand for Filipino workforce that would ultimately benefit their families and loved ones,� Antonio continues.

In the last quarter of 2023, EEI signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Samsung Engineering NEC Co. Ltd. (SENEC) in Saudi Arabia to collaborate and work on projects in the country and to further expand overseas work opportunities for Filipinos. Under the MOU, EEI and SENEC are committed to work together and mutually explore opportunities to fulfill the development objectives of Saudi Arabia including providing support through Filipino manpower mobilization to the country.

Both companies recognize the skills, tenacity, adaptability and resilience of Filipino overseas workers. Labor skills in the fields of masonry, carpentry, electrical, welding, equipment management, warehousing, steel fabrication and other construction-related crafts are seen to fulfill manpower requirements for EEI's various projects not only in the Philippines but also overseas.

EEI has been present in Saudi Arabia since 1993 through Al Rushaid Construction Company Limited (ARCC), the joint venture company of Al Rushaid Petroleum Investment Corporation and EEI Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of EEI. ARCC engages in general construction and has participated in various major developments in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia particularly in the construction of refineries and petrochemical plants, power and desalination plants, mining and industrial facilities. As one of the largest Saudi-Filipino joint ventures in Saudi, ARCC has been instrumental in providing vast overseas employment opportunities for Filipinos over the last thirty years. As of end-2023, ARCC employs 4,592 Filipinos among its 7,224 workforce and is set to add more with the new and potential prospects seen in Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 grand plan.

The MOU signing held at Shangri-la Hotel The Fort in Taguig City was attended by EEI Corp. President and CEO Henry D. Antonio, ZL Machinery Philippines, Inc. President Jesus Martin Cacho-Araneta, EEI Corp. Senior Vice President for SCM, Logistics, Security and Facilities Earl Jason R. Vistro, ZL Machinery Philippines, Inc. Vice General Manager Chris Zeng, and Earthmoving Machinery Business Unit Assistant President and General Manager Ye Yuan.

Under the MOU, Â鶹´«Ã½ will purchase brand new heavy and construction machineries from ZL Machinery Philippines and Zoomlion for the company’s equipment re-fleeting project in the Philippines and for its overseas business.

“We anticipate a surge in infrastructure projects from next year onwards which we are committed to accomplish, not just in terms of target schedules and completion, but also with excellent service and quality that come with working with EEI. We also have to be efficient with our capex (capital expenditure) budget. Acquiring equipment for several projects is one of the prudent investments we have to make to meet the demands of infrastructure work,� EEI Corp. President and CEO Henry D. Antonio states.

Antonio and Vistro recently flew to China to visit the Zoomlion Smart City and negotiated high-level terms of contract.

“In this industry, equipment reliability is a highly critical aspect of ensuring construction projects are executed on schedule. We believe that Zoomlion’s equipment and excellence in after-sales service and support will improve the capability of EEI’s project delivery and keep it on track,� Antonio adds.

Zoomlion Heavy Industry Science & Technology Co., Ltd. (ZHIST), founded in 1992, is mainly engaged in the R&D and manufacturing of construction machinery, agricultural machinery and other high-tech equipment and new construction materials. Over three decades of innovative development, ZHIST has steadily grown into a global enterprise, with key products covering 18 categories, 106 product series and 660 varieties. Zoomlion has been listed in Shenzhen and Hong Kong stock markets, becoming the first company in the industry to be listed in both markets.

Â鶹´«Ã½ is recognized as one of the leading construction companies in the Philippines with multiple mega infrastructure projects in the pipeline including railway projects in the country. The company has a broad range of construction and engineering services, with expertise in the construction of infrastructure, buildings, and industrial and electromechanical facilities. Its partnership with global contractors enabled EEI to achieve world-caliber project management expertise and competencies in all fields and disciplines of construction.

This collaboration between MMMC and EEI Power aims to harness clean and renewable energy to power a substantial portion of the former's operation. The 376.2kWp solar rooftop system will not only reduce the hospital's reliance on conventional power but also contribute to long-term cost savings, allowing for the reallocation of MMMC’s resources to enhance patient care and facility upgrades.

Comprised of 691 pieces of JA Solar 545 watts monocrystalline solar photovoltaic panels, the 376.2kWp solar PV rooftop system is estimated to produce 509,000kWh of clean energy annually. Through this project, MMMC is expected to reduce its carbon footprint by as much as 4,988 metric tons, which is equivalent to 5,955 trees planted and 86,751 liters of gasoline.

The signing ceremony was attended by key representatives from both Mary Mediatrix Medical Center and EEI Power, a testament to their shared vision for a sustainable future, aligning with global efforts to address climate change and promote green energy solutions.

Speaking at the ceremony, Jose Ronaldo H. Delos Santos, President and CEO of Mary Mediatrix Medical Center, expressed enthusiasm about the positive impact this project would have on the hospital's operations. He stated that “this collaboration with EEI Power aligns with our commitment as a healthcare organization to providing top-notch healthcare while doing our part in caring for the environment and helping this planet heal.�

For his part, EEI Power General Manager Salvador M. Salire, Jr. emphasized the importance of such partnerships in fostering a greener and more sustainable future. “In EEI Power, we are moved by our noble quest of ‘Powering the FUTURE Today!’ and it is such an honor that we are accorded the privilege to partner with Mary Mediatrix Medical Center, ‘The Hub of Healthcare Experts,’ for this worthwhile endeavor,� Mr. Salire affirmed.

Installation works for this solar rooftop project is scheduled to commence immediately, with both MMMC and EEI Power working diligently to ensure its successful implementation. As the healthcare industry continues to evolve, initiatives like these underscore the importance of incorporating sustainable practices to create a healthier and more resilient future.

MMMC, which is part of the Mount Grace Hospitals, Inc. network, has a rich history spanning more than 70 years of delivering quality medical service, taking roots from the former Magsino General Hospital. It is a premier healthcare provider and recognized as the most admired and preferred medical center in South Luzon. MMMC prides itself as a Level III hospital with among the most advanced medical systems and internationallytrained and seasoned specialists.

On the other hand, EEI Power, the power arm of Â鶹´«Ã½ and a member of the Yuchengco Group of Companies, offers a wide range of power solutions for electrical equipment and services. It is a licensed electro-mechanical contractor by the Philippine Contractors Accreditation Board and an Energy Service Company registered with the Department of Energy. As part of its commitment to sustainable development, EEI Power has become a recognized name in the solar rooftop domain. Through its wholly-owned subsidiary, EEI Energy Solutions Corporation, it is also actively engaged in the retail electricity supply business.

The MOU signing held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia was signed by EEI President and CEO Henry D. Antonio, SENEC CEO Mohamed Neffati, SENEC Board Member MinSu Ko and witnessed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

Through the MOU, EEI and SENEC committed to work together and mutually explore opportunities to meet and fulfill the development objectives of KSA. The MOU includes both parties’ obligations and commitments to the business relationship including having the support of Filipino manpower mobilization to KSA further expanding overseas work opportunities for Filipinos. Both companies recognize the skills, tenacity, adaptability and resilience of Filipino overseas workers.

SENEC is a joint venture company of Samsung Engineering and Al Rushaid Petroleum Investment Corporation. It aims to provide engineering, procurement and construction services initially within KSA and into other markets at a later stage.

EEI has been present in KSA since 1993 through Al Rushaid Construction Company Limited (ARCC), the joint venture company of Al Rushaid Petroleum Investment Corporation and EEI Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of EEI. ARCC engages in general construction and has participated in various major developments in KSA particularly in the construction of refineries and petrochemical plants, power and desalination plants, mining and industrial facilities.

As one of the largest Saudi-Filipino joint ventures in KSA, ARCC has been instrumental in providing vast overseas employment opportunities for Filipinos over the last thirty years. Currently, ARCC employs 4,965 Filipinos among its 8,341 workforce and is set to add more with the EEI-SENEC partnership.

“EEI remains to be a champion for job generation not just in the Philippines but also overseas. With our commitment to various projects that are considered of national prominence at the Kingdom of Saudia Arabia, we are going to need sets of skilled and hardworking Filipinos who are recognized all over the world for embodying strong work ethics. We look forward to empowering fellow Filipinos and help benefit their families and loved ones too through these employment opportunities. EEI has been present here in Saudi Arabia since 1993 and because of this fruitful joint venture, we are preparing for the labor needs that will arise for several upcoming projects lined up here in Saudi,� EEI President and CEO Henry D. Antonio says.

To fulfill manpower requirements for various projects in the Philippines and abroad, EEI is currently constructing a 500-person training facility in Tanza, Cavite with the aim of upgrading labor skills in the fields of masonry, carpentry, electrical, welding, equipment management, warehousing, steel fabrication and other construction-related crafts. In 2024, the facility is targeting to train at least 2,000 Filipinos a year and more than 15,000 workers in the next five years.

The recognition is based on the impact on the financial growth and strength of the PagIBIG Fund measured by Member Savings Collection (35%), Number of Short-Term Loan (30%), Short-Term Loan Collection (20%) and Membership Level (15%) with EEI emerging as one of the top-ranked employers in the region that met the criteria.

“Â鶹´«Ã½ has been awarded as one of the top employers for two years in a row by Pag-IBIG. This is a feat that comes to a company with more than 13,000 domestic employees. Receiving this recognition from Pag-IBIG underscores our commitment in providing our people with growth opportunities and benefits that improve their lives and those of their families. We continue to ensure that the employees will be able to reap and maximize the benefits offered by Pag-IBIG such as access to savings programs and affordable home financing,â€� Santamaria says.

“The Company is honored to provide jobs to thousands of Filipinos. Just this year, in the last eight months, we have mobilized employees to various construction projects reaching 7,800 for craft workers and 1,200 for professional staff. More than the awards and accolades that the Company may receive, Â鶹´«Ã½ is more glad that it had supported and will continue to support thousands of families going through each day, to have decent meal on the table, provide education to their children, and see hope that someday their lives will become better,â€� he added.

Apart from its diligence in its Pag-IBIG mandate, EEI has also been implementing programs which cover employee welfare and development. Among these is EEI’s Management Trainee Program tailored for engineering graduates with exemplary academic records and with the drive and leadership attributes necessary to make significant contributions to the Company’s growth. The program equips participants with essential behavioral, management and technical skills, as well as “necessary judgment and know-how� to excel as effective and responsible supervisors and managers.

The Company also launched its Values to Virtues (V2V) Workshop which includes values formation training in the workplace for both the craft workers and the office staff. EEI also has the “Builder of a Better Future� Scholarship Program in place which grants scholarship benefit to children of well-deserving employees. It aims to fulfill the academic aspirations of loyal employees’ children starting from senior high school towards the collegiate level.

“We have always considered our people as one of our most valued assets. This latest recognition meets the company’s vision of cultivating a culture of highly motivated and productive workers. It is our hope that the efforts we make to ensure that our people are well taken care of continue to impact them positively,� EEI Corp. President and CEO Henry D. Antonio remarks.

Among these big-ticket infrastructure projects include the most recently awarded South Commuter Railway Project (SCRP) Package 7 which involves the construction of 24 hectares Depot in Banlic, Laguna that will support operation of this 18-station rail project.

The project is seen to improve and provide affordable, reliable and safe connectivity in the public transport network by connecting with all existing LRT/MRT lines in Metro Manila, including a connecting tunnel to allow the operation of direct trains from Calamba to stations on the future Metro Manila Subway system. The Depot was awarded to the joint venture of Lotte (Korea), Gulermak (Turkey) and EEI and is set to be completed within five years.

The Malolos-Clark Railway Project (MCRP) Package 4 is another major EEI project that involves the construction of 6.5 km double track railway with elevated, at grade and underground sections. The key components of the project are one underground station (Clark International Airport Station), one road underpass, 1.2 km Depot Trackway line and 3.8 km Service Road. The project was awarded to EEI’s joint venture with Acciona (Spain) and is seen to be completed within three years. EEI is also involved in MCRP Package 5 as subcontractor of POSCO doing majority of the earthworks, integral bridges, drainages, utilities, and perimeter walls.

In congruence with the MCRP is the construction of the San Fernando Station, a part of the Contract Package 2, in San Fernando, Pampanga. EEI is subcontractor of Acciona and Daelim Joint Venture for this work package. EEI’s scope includes concreting works and supply, fabrication and installation of structural steel and is set to be completed in less than a year and a half.

Another key infrastructure project is the Metro Manila Subway Project (MMSP). The work package awarded to the joint venture Shimizu Corp., Fujita Corp., Takenaka Civil Engineering & Construction Co. Ltd., and Â鶹´«Ã½ (SFTEJV) involves the first 7.3- km section of the subway project comprising three stations namely Quirino Highway, Tandang Sora and North Avenue as well as the Depot and the Philippine Railway Institute Building in Barangay Ugong, Valenzuela. For this project, EEI is also supplying supervisory personnel and skilled workers on the Tunnel Boring Machine operations. This gives the opportunity to EEI and its employees to showcase its expertise and competitiveness in the international market. This joint venture is expected to be completed by the fourth quarter of 2027.

Also ongoing is the MMSP Phase I contract package for the construction of the Cut and Cover sections of the project located in Brgy. Ugong, Valenzuela City. EEI scope shall be excavations and construction of reinforced concrete structures intended for the Ubox and Cut and Cover sections of the subway track. The project will be completed in two years.

Similarly trusted by the real estate sector, EEI is also working on high-rise buildings and properties such as the The Grand Midori Ortigas Tower 2 and The Seasons Residences Tower D. The Grand Midori Ortigas Tower 2 is a 34-floor residential building development in Ortigas Center. The firm’s scope includes structural, architectural and plumbing works for Tower 2 and is set to be completed within three years.

The other property development in the works is The Seasons Residences Tower D, a 55- floor residential building development in Taguig City with EEI’s scope covering civil, structural, architectural and MEPF (mechanical, electrical, plumbing and fire protection) works. The project is expected to be done within three years.

EEI also bagged the Ecozone Properties Inc. (EPIC) project which involves installation of process piping, utility piping and equipment as well as completion of storage tank farm facility and utility tanks at the Special Economic Zone in Bauan, Batangas. The piping and tank works are set to be completed in six months. EEI is also installing the additional piping works of Natura and Premium Plant located in First Industrial Township Batangas.

“As we mark 92 years of service this year, EEI will continue to uphold its mission as builder of a better future. Through these projects that we are working on especially the ones that would directly benefit the general public, we aim to be contributor in creating vibrant economies and overall, to be a provider of a better quality of life not just to our workforce but also to the communities and stakeholders we serve,� Roman Lapuz, EEI Vice President and Head of Infrastructure Division, says, noting that this is aligned with YGC’s vision to futureproof the lives of the Filipinos.

EEI President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Henry D. Antonio shares the same vision that drives EEI’s strong commitment to infrastructure and various construction projects.

“Being one of the premier construction companies in the Philippines, EEI will continue to contribute to the economic growth and nation-building –- shaping Philippine landscapes and communities through infrastructure, industrial, power, and property projects. We will aggressively pursue and deliver projects that will provide quality and safe living and work spaces and facilities for the people,� Antonio declares.

EEI currently has 27,000 employees working across its several construction projects in the Philippines and overseas.

The facility is set to accommodate up to 500 trainees at any given time and offer trainings for various types of welding at different skill levels such as plate, pipe, tube, exotic material and mechanized welding as well as trainings for skills related to electro-mechanical and light industries such as those for structural fitters and steel workers, mechanical and pipe fitters, building and industrial electricians, sand blasters and painters, scaffolders, insulators and tinsmiths, riggers, crane operators and more.

Trainings for building and infrastructure related sessions for mason, carpenter, rebar man, building painter and sealant applicator as well as for MEPF (mechanical, electrical, plumbing and fire protection) manpower will also be offered.

In addition to construction-related skills training, the facility will also offer training sessions for engineers and staff of Â鶹´«Ã½ on Supervisory Development Program (SDP), Engineering Development Crash Course (EDCC), and Construction Project Management for Project Manager and Directors (CPM) to provide or improve their supervisorial or managerial skills.

The EEI Training Center is expected to be completed in December 2024. Located in Tanza, Cavite, the new center will consist of a two-storey building for classroom sessions; welding booth and PWHT (Post Weld Heat Treatment) workshop; rebar, carpentry, mason and scaffolding workshop; plumbing, painting and SMPEI (structural mechanical piping electrical instrumentation) workshop; welding office and warehouse; cutting and beveling area; an indoor recreation facility; an office building for the staff; single layer barracks for trainees; and pipe rack, pipe sleeper, tankage and boiler modular structures.

The decision to build the facility is part of the company’s recovery plans from the effects brought about by the pandemic.

“To deal with the issues and challenges, we evaluated our operations, identified and addressed weak points, restructured and continued upskilling our workforce, and strengthened our stakeholder relations. EEI is committed to physically and figuratively build foundations for an inclusive and better tomorrow for our stakeholders—not just for our clients but also for our very own employees,â€� Henry D. Antonio, Â鶹´«Ã½ President and CEO, says.

Around 20% of the manpower requirement, estimated to be at 500 people, will be initially trained in various disciplines at the EEI Training Center. The facility is envisioned to produce a sustainable supply of EEI’s workforce for its numerous construction projects. The EEI Training Center is vital to the strategic workforce planning across the business.

In line with the establishment of a new training facility, EEI recently signed an agreement with Dual Tech, a private Technical Vocational Institution (TVI) in the Philippines with 40 years of industry experience, to offer and incorporate a Values to Virtues (V2V) Workshop in the EEI Training Modules. EEI conceptualized the inclusion of values formation training in the workplace for both the craft workers and the professional staff. Dr. Zenon Arthur Udani, Life and Leadership Coach from Tech Duo and Dual Tech Center, has been tapped to conduct the values formation training.

The first batch of participants of the V2V Workshop starting this July will be coming from EEI supervisors and managers. Part of the workshop is the creation of a team of mentors and coaches to serve as support system of the participants, ensuring the application of the learning in the workplace.

“Values are meant to reflect what is important to us in life. In the workplace, our values represent how we behave with our fellow workers and the Company in general. This will help the workforce to examine if they have any concern with colleagues, to correct wrongdoings, to show support for a fellow team member in success and failure and many other things that actually matter. We believe that values formation is a very important element for the company’s improved and better performance in all aspects. These are some of the fundamental matters that the Values to Virtues (V2V) Workshop is envisioned to develop for the well-being of our employees,� the CEO adds.

In addition to the upcoming training facility and workshop, EEI has an ongoing Apprenticeship Program partnered with Dual Tech as well, using the “Dual Training System (DTS)�. The Apprenticeship Program is a two-year-course on electromechanics technology program which is currently being conducted in EEI’s Tanza Yard in Cavite. The scope of the apprenticeship is a multi-discipline wok on automotive and equipment servicing, electronics and electrical product assembly servicing, machining services, automotive body painting services and shielded metal arc welding.

The House of Investments, Inc. (HOI), the investment holding and management company that includes EEI in its diversified portfolio, confirmed on Friday May 19 that the Board of Directors has decided to sell 14.35% interest in EEI to Industry Holdings and Development Corporation (IHDC). EEI remains a portfolio investment of HI.

“EEI welcomes IHDC; a team that shares the same vision as ours in building a better future. We are excited with the potential synergies we can create that are focused on nation-building, environmental protection, supporting economic growth, and uplifting the quality of life of our own people and the communities we serve,� said EEI President and CEO, Henry Antonio.

IHDC equally expressed optimism over this development as the company’s goal is aligned with EEI’s overall thrust.

“IHDC’s investment in EEI is in line with its mission to help build the nation. We strive to create value for our stakeholders, including our customers, employees, shareholders, and the communities we operate in. IHDC has the same thrust that EEI has; which is to create inclusive growth among all its stakeholders,� stated IHDC President, Noel Jesus Santiago. Moreover, IHDC's entry as a strategic partner is in line with EEI's growth plans and restructuring efforts. “Our technology and advancements in concrete products which enable faster and more economical ways to build provide us synergies that we will take advantage of,� added Mr. Santiago.

EEI is a 92-year old company which has a broad range of construction and engineering services, with expertise in the construction of infrastructure, buildings, and industrial and electromechanical facilities. Years of contracting and collaborating with global contractors, particularly in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia Pacific countries, have enabled EEI to achieve world-caliber project management expertise and competencies in all fields and disciplines of construction. EEI currently has 27,000 employees working across its several construction projects in the Philippines and overseas.

IHDC is a firm engaged in investment, purchase, and acquisition of properties, manufacturing, and logistics. Its manufacturing arm, Concrete Stone Corp. (CSC) was incorporated in 2018 to primarily trade aggregates and started to manufacture aggregates in 2020. CSC is also completing construction of a state-of the art precast concrete manufacturing facility in Mariveles, Bataan. Its logistics subsidiary, Industry Movers Corp. (IMC) was organized in 2018 to handle freight handling and vessel operations.