Davao Light and Power Company

Samahan ng may iba't-ibang Kakayahan sa Dabaw (SAKADAB) received on September 8, its fully renovated production facility at the Gawad Kalinga (GK) community in Los Amigos, Tugbok, Davao City.

"We are very grateful and we appreciate all the things that you have done just to make our lives comfortable and sustainable… Using our talents and skills so that in the future, we can stand on our own,” said Mirasol Magalasin, SAKADAB President during the turnover ceremony held at the facility.

The facility serves as the cooperative’s work and production area for its handicrafts and sewing businesses. Through the project, Davao Light and Power Co., Inc. (Davao Light) and its social development arm, Aboitiz Foundation Inc., aim to further enhance the capabilities of the 18 differently-abled members of the SAKADAB Consumer Cooperative.

“We are grateful for this production area, for the printer, for the fund that we received. Thank you so much. Hindi namin talaga maexpress ang gratitude sa lahat ng tulong na naibigay nyo sa SAKADAB. Maraming salamat," Magalasin expressed. The improved facility now has better lighting and ventilation system, with additional office equipment for product marketing.

In her speech during the turnover ceremony, Aboitiz Foundation President and COO Maribeth Marasigan congratulated the cooperative members for showcasing their handicraft skills and products by joining the Habi Kadayawan 2023, a fashion accessories and apparel design competition during the Kadayawan celebration. SAKADAB was one of the Top 5 finalists under the community-based category.

The power distribution utility has been supporting SAKADAB since 2012, back when its team members helped build houses in their village, together with various groups and organizations. Since then, the company and Aboitiz Foundation, provided livelihood materials, equipment, and trainings to build the capability of the SAKADAB members and ensure the sustainability of their cooperative.

Davao Light, an AboitizPower subsidiary, aims to empower and add value to the communities it serves by providing tools, services, and keys to efficiency and well-being, which will bring about development in its franchise area covering the cities of Davao, Panabo, and the municipalities of Carmen, Dujali, and Sto. Tomas.