Vena Energy has been recognized as an Outstanding Stakeholder by the Department of Education (DepEd) Schools Division of Calbayog City for its support of education and community development in the area.
The recognition was presented during the annual DepEd Calbayog City Stakeholders Summit on September 23, 2026, at the Calbayog City Convention Center. The event brought together education leaders, local government representatives, and private-sector partners involved in supporting education programs in the city.
For Vena Energy, the award highlights a part of its local presence that extends beyond its renewable energy operations. Through its subsidiary, Gemini Wind Energy Corp. (GWEC), the company has worked with the local education community as part of its broader stakeholder engagement efforts.
Why are energy companies becoming more involved in community development?
Renewable energy projects operate within communities for decades, making relationships with local stakeholders an important part of project development and operations.
For companies such as Vena Energy, this means community engagement can extend beyond the construction and operation of renewable energy facilities. Partnerships with schools and local institutions can address community priorities while giving companies a more direct role in the areas where they operate.
In Calbayog City, DepEd's recognition specifically cited Vena Energy's support, partnership, and contributions to education and stakeholder engagement.
The company did not disclose specific financial figures or individual education programs associated with the recognition in its announcement.
Vena Energy and GWEC represent the company at the summit
Marivic Acuyong, CSR Manager at Vena Energy, and Falconeri Miranda, Project Manager at GWEC, accepted the recognition on behalf of the company.
The award follows an invitation from Dr. Margarito A. Cadayona Jr., Ph.D., Schools Division Superintendent, which highlighted the contributions of Vena Energy and GWEC to the local education community.
The recognition also reflects the role of private-sector organizations in DepEd's stakeholder network. Schools often work with businesses, local governments, civic organizations, and other groups to support educational initiatives and community programs.
What does the recognition mean for Vena Energy's local presence?
Vena Energy's Philippines operations are part of a broader renewable energy portfolio, but the company's relationship with host communities also involves social and community considerations.
Samrinder Nehria, Head of the Philippines at Vena Energy, said the company views education support as a way of creating opportunities for young people and contributing to stronger communities.
The company said the recognition reinforces its commitment to working with students, teachers, and schools through sustained partnerships.
For the local education sector, the award also illustrates how public-private collaboration can supplement the work of schools and government agencies. DepEd Calbayog expressed its appreciation to stakeholders, noting the role of partnerships and support networks in delivering educational programs in Samar.
Education as part of renewable energy's community footprint
The Calbayog recognition points to a broader consideration for renewable energy development: the relationship between an infrastructure project and the communities around it.
Wind and other renewable energy projects can bring economic activity and energy infrastructure to host areas, but their long-term presence also creates expectations around responsible community engagement.
Education is one area where those relationships can become particularly tangible. Support for schools can involve partnerships, resources, training, facilities, or other initiatives, depending on local needs and the programs established by the company and its community partners.
In Calbayog, DepEd's recognition provides a public acknowledgment of Vena Energy's involvement with the local education community, while also highlighting the continuing role of private-sector stakeholders in supporting schools in Samar.
As renewable energy development expands in the Philippines, the ability of project developers to maintain constructive relationships with host communities will remain an important part of how these projects are experienced beyond their energy output.