Manila, Philippines – April 25, 2025 — The UN Global Compact Network Philippines (GCNP) delivered a session on the importance of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) integration for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) at the Franchise Asia Philippines 2025 Conference, held at the SMX Convention Center. The session formed part of the Franchise and Business Seminars organized by the Philippine Franchise Association (PFA) and focused on the practical benefits of ESG in driving business resilience and sustainable growth.
In the session titled “Unlocking Growth with ESG – Why and How ESG Benefits SMEs,” GCNP Executive Director Mr. Edward Marcel C. Gacusana joined Ms. Sharon Jean Gonzales-Gulmatico, CEO and Head of SDG 2 Investments at Morination Agricultural Products, Inc., to share actionable strategies for embedding ESG into business operations. The discussion highlighted how SMEs can build more future-ready businesses by aligning with global sustainability standards while delivering long-term value.
“ESG isn’t just for large corporations. It’s a roadmap for long-term value creation, especially for SMEs navigating today’s dynamic business landscape,” said Mr. Gacusana. “Through ESG integration, businesses can strengthen operations, attract responsible investment, and meaningfully contribute to sustainable development.”
GCNP Board of Trustees Vice Chairperson and former Philippine Marketing Association President Ms. Maria Luz “Yayu” E. Javier also contributed to the event in a separate session titled “Maximizing Customer Profitability: Winning Loyalty Strategies that Drive Engagement and Revenue.” She highlighted the importance of purposeful branding and engaging customers in sustainability efforts, such as repurposing and recycling, to deepen their connection with the brand’s values and impact. Her remarks emphasized how integrating sustainability into customer experience can drive franchise success.
The Franchise Asia Philippines 2025 Conference featured a diverse lineup of business and thought leaders across sectors. With this year’s theme, “Building Success Together,” the event also marked PFA’s 30th anniversary by celebrating collaboration and bayanihan as critical drivers of inclusive business growth.
As the UN Global Compact’s local network in the Philippines, GCNP continues to mobilize the private sector—especially SMEs—to adopt responsible business practices aligned with the Ten Principles and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By doing so, GCNP supports businesses on their journey toward measurable impact and long-term resilience.
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