Keitech Recognized Globally, Bags AUD175,000 (P7M) for Leyte Skills Training

Posted on Mar. 4, 2026 at 12:02 pm

TACLOBAN CITY — First Gen-Energy Development Corporation (First Gen-EDC), a portfolio company managed by Australia-based Macquarie Asset Management (MAM), was honored on February 23, 2026, as a recipient of the 2025 Macquarie Shared Value Award for its exceptional initiative, the Keitech Educational Foundation Inc. (Keitech).

Established in 2023, the Macquarie Shared Value Award acknowledges Macquarie teams or assets advancing initiatives that combine business success with social impact, creating a positive effect on society while also delivering business advantages. Since its inception, the award has provided over AUD1.3 million to 11 organizations globally (AUD1=PHP41.02).

First Gen-EDC is the largest geothermal energy producer in the Philippines, managing 1.5GW of renewable energy generation capacity in geothermal, solar, hydropower and wind. MAM acquired a majority stake inFirst Gen-EDC in 2017 and has supported the business in enhancing the reliability and resilience of the Philippines’ renewable energy supply.

In 2009, in partnership with the local government of Kananga in Leyte, First Gen-EDC established Keitech to promote social purpose in the surrounding community alongside the business’s growth.

Keitech addresses the crucial need for vocational education among underserved high school graduates, aiming to equip them with the skills and training required to excel in high-demand industries such as construction, metals and engineering, and tourism. By improving access to local employment through technical vocational education, Keitech tackles the high unemployment rates and limited access to higher education in the region.

As one of the three winners of the initial round of the 2025 Macquarie Shared Value Award, Keitech will receive a grant of AUD175,000 (P7.17 million) to further support its mission of providing high-quality vocational education and training, enhancing the employability of its graduates and promoting sustainable community development.

Jasmine Chew, Regional Head of Asia for the Macquarie Group Foundation, stated, “We believe that lasting social impact comes from empowering communities to shape their own future. The Keitech Educational Foundation is a powerful example of how business and community can collaborate to create meaningful change.”

“We are proud to support Keitech’s mission. Their dedication to providing vocational education is helping underserved communities access new opportunities and build a better future,’ she added.

“We are grateful to receive the Macquarie Shared Value Award,” said Allan Barcena, Head of Corporate Support Functions at Energy Development Corporation.

“This recognition highlights the impact of our work at Keitech and reaffirms our commitment to empowering the youth of Leyte through education and skills development. The generous grant will enable us to expand our programs and reach more students, ultimately contributing to a brighter future for our community.”

Keitech’s innovative approach to vocational education exemplifies this ethos, showcasing how strategic partnerships and community-focused projects can drive meaningful change.

(Photo courtesy: Keitech)