Quezon Wind Energy Corp. (QWEC), a subsidiary of Vena Energy—a leading green energy solutions provider in the Asia-Pacific region—marked a major milestone in its community relations today with an official check turnover ceremony for its host community, the Dumagat/Remontado Indigenous Peoples (IPs) of General Nakar, Quezon.
The ceremony formalizes the Quezon IPs’ receipt of their community funds under the Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC) process. The funds were received through the Pigtaanan ne Dumagat – Remontado de General Nakar, Quezon (PDRGNQ), the official implementing IP organization.
This milestone reflects Vena Energy’s continuous efforts to support its host communities by going beyond compliance to actively protect their rights, heritage, and self-determination. The partnership empowers community-led development initiatives based on priorities identified by the host IPs, including infrastructure improvements, access to education, sustainable livelihood programs, and enhanced healthcare services.
“Empowering the Quezon IPs is at the heart of our mission,” said Samrinder Nehria, Head of Vena Energy in the Philippines. “We are dedicated to ensuring that our green energy initiatives translate into tangible, long-term benefits for the communities that graciously host us, fostering a future built on mutual respect and sustainable progress.”
The event was attended by Vena Energy representatives, led by Mia Jarumayan, Head of Business Development and Project Development, alongside Quezon IP leaders, elders, and government officials.
Vena Energy’s strict adherence to the FPIC process serves as a successful model for private-public collaboration in the renewable energy sector, ensuring that green projects are built on a foundation of transparent communication.
Expressing appreciation for the partnership, Melecio Rotaquio, Chairman of the Board of Directors of PDRGNQ, Inc., stated:
“Ang matatag na suporta mula sa Vena Energy ay nagbibigay ng lakas ng loob sa aming komunidad na isulong ang makabuluhang pag-unlad habang pinapangalagaan ang aming pamanang kultural.” (“The steadfast support from Vena Energy gives our community the courage to pursue meaningful development while preserving our cultural heritage.”)
National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) Region 4A Regional Director Dr. Carlos Buasen, Jr. also commended the initiative: “It is inspiring to witness a corporate partner truly value the ancestral domains and the people who protect them. Vena Energy sets a remarkable standard for responsible and inclusive community engagement.”
This event marks the second check turnover ceremony recently conducted by the company, following an April 21 ceremony with the Tanay Dumagat Remontado Indigenous Cultural Communities. Together, these milestones underscore Vena Energy’s broader commitment to its indigenous partners across Quezon.
By integrating community-led development into its core operations, Vena Energy reinforces its dedication to honoring ancestral domain rights. This initiative demonstrates how renewable energy can power the national grid while simultaneously fueling the long-term aspirations and sustainable development of the Filipino people.
