News — 2025

SMBC Aviation Capital joins Cebu Pacific and RAFI for Mangrove Reforestation Project

03/03/2025

Cebu Pacific (PSE: CEB), the Philippines’ leading carrier, has joined SMBC Aviation Capital and the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (RAFI) to support a mangrove planting project in Sitio Sulok, Lian, Batangas. The initiative, which saw the planting of 3,000 mangrove seedlings, aims to restore vital coastal ecosystems while empowering local communities.

A total of 26 CEB volunteers, alongside representatives from SMBC Aviation Capital and RAFI, participated in the planting activity, demonstrating the airline’s commitment to sustainability and corporate social responsibility (CSR).

“Cebu Pacific is committed to initiatives that create positive change, not just for our passengers, but also for the communities we serve. This project reflects our strong focus on environmental stewardship and volunteerism, providing our employees with an opportunity to contribute to long-term community efforts,” said Felix Lopez, CEB Chief Human Resources Officer.

SMBC Aviation Capital, one of the world’s largest aircraft leasing companies, views the project as a core tenet of its wider sustainability strategy.

“SMBC Aviation Capital is committed to corporate social responsibility and sustainability efforts that go beyond our daily operations and extend to the communities that we operate in. Through this collaboration, we are investing in a project that will benefit both the environment and the people who rely on these vital resources,” said David Swan, Chief Operations and Sustainability Officer, SMBC Aviation Capital.

The project is also expected to generate livelihood opportunities for the local community in Sitio Sulok. Members of the Samahan ng Mangingisda sa Sulok (SAMLOK) people’s organization will manage seedling production, site preparation, and the long-term maintenance of the mangrove area.
 

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About SMBC Aviation Capital

Headquartered in Dublin, Ireland, SMBC Aviation Capital is one of the world’s largest aircraft lessors. SMBC Aviation Capital has a high-quality global airline customer base with a portfolio comprising 85% narrow-body aircraft and 70% new technology aircraft (by net book value). With an owned, managed and committed fleet of over 1000 aircraft, SMBC Aviation Capital has a strong capital position and holds an A- and BBB+ rating with S&P and Fitch respectively, reflecting the long-term strength of its business. For more information, please visit:  https://www.smbc.aero/

 

About Cebu Pacific Air

Cebu Pacific (CEB), the Philippines' leading carrier, has been transforming air travel since its launch on March 8, 1996, with its pioneering “low fare, great value” strategy. Since then, it has flown over 250 million passengers, making travel more accessible and affordable. CEB boasts the widest domestic network in the country, connecting 37 destinations across the Philippines. It also operates flights to 26 international destinations across Asia, Australia, and the Middle East.

“SMBC Aviation Capital is committed to corporate social responsibility and sustainability efforts that go beyond our daily operations and extend to the communities that we operate in."

David Swan, Chief Operations and Sustainability Officer, SMBC Aviation Capital.

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Conor Irwin/ Dara O’Sullivan/ Ellen Sherry
SMBC Aviation Capital

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Richard Webster-Smith
Partner
FGS Global

+44 7796 708 551

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