Maria Carmelia Galapon
Write-ups
01
18th Walk the Talk Strides Toward Wellness and Sustainability
On August 31, 2024, nearly 500 participants from various subsidiaries of Lopez Group gathered at the First Philippine Industrial Park (FPIP) in Sto. Tomas, Batangas, to take part in the 18th anniversary of Walk the Talk (WTT), an event led by the Lopez Group HR Council and Lopez Lifelong Wellness.
This marked FPIP’s first time hosting the event in five years, once again partnering with First Balfour, welcoming a record-breaking attendance—the highest since Walk the Talk was revived post-pandemic.
The day began at 6:00 AM with the rhythmic beat of drums, welcoming participants as they gradually arrived at Consuelo Park Pavilion—surely, a lively and energizing start to the day. Morning treats of taho, coffee, and other light snacks were also available in different food stations in the pavilion to cater to and to ensure the participants were fueled for the activities ahead.
By 7:00 AM, everyone had gathered inside the 1,000-square-meter tent, where booths lined the venue, showcasing a wide array of health and wellness products and offering special discounts to participants. Featured brands included Unilab, Human Nature, Anytime Fitness, and PAG-IBIG, alongside other vendors like UniOil, ER Creative, and AllDay Supermarket.
Shortly after, emcees FPIP Project Manager Mr. JC Nueno and First Balfour HR Specialist Ms. Bea Quidilig officially kicked off the event, inviting everyone to participate in a fun and invigorating morning exercise routine.
Shared responsibility
Since its inception,Walk the Talk has consistently emphasized the importance of welfare. This 18th year is no exception, serving as a reminder of the Lopez Credo's concern for employee welfare and wellness, which stands as one of the seven core Lopez Values—alongside pioneering entrepreneurial spirit, business excellence, unity, nationalism, social justice, and integrity
Beyond the seven core values, FPIP and First Balfour also uphold the guiding principles of their parent company, First Philippine Holdings. Aligned with their commitment to regeneration and decarbonization, hosts FPIP and First Balfour encouraged participants to bring plastic wastes for recycling. This initiative resulted in the collection of 39.4 kilograms of plastic, marking a meaningful step forward in their mission.
Officially opening the ceremonies were First Balfour's President and Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Anthony Fernandez, who warmly acknowledged everyone attending and appreciated their participation; and FPIP’s Chief Commercial Officer Jose Valentin "Joval" Pantangco, who underlined that beyond wellness and unity, Walk the Talk serves as a reminder of the shared aspirations and mission that unite the Lopez Group and its subsidiaries.
The Walk
The 5.3 kilometer took the participants through the heart of FPIP, starting at the Consuelo Park Pavilion. Then as they ventured into Consuelo Park, FPIP’s first eco-park, they were greeted by a vibrant tapestry of lush flora—a perfect blend of nature and wellness.
Upon exiting the serene confines of the park, the group was led along FPIP’s main thoroughfares, where they encountered the impressive manufacturing facilities of global industry leaders such as Brother Industries (Philippines), Inc., Philippine Manufacturing Co., of Murata, Inc., and Philip Morris Philippines Manufacturing Inc. They were also treated to a glimpse of Dyson's new research and development facility, which is still undergoing construction.
However, the true highlight of the tour is FPIP’s solar-powered bridge. The bridge became a natural stopping point, where friends and families paused to marvel at its architectural beauty, capture memories in photographs, and appreciate the scenic view of the San Juan River below.
Giving life
Just as they witnessed life flourishing in Consuelo Park and throughout the estate, they also contributed to its growth.
The designated site for the tree-planting activity was located right next to Dyson’s up-and-coming facility—symbolizing the intersection of new growth in both nature and industry.
In a remarkable display of unity and environmental stewardship, a diverse array of tree saplings, including Dau, Narra, and Kalantas, were distributed for planting at FPIP. The initiative brought together a vibrant mix of participants—from children to adults—culminating in the successful planting of 290 trees.
Afterward, the group made their way to the Buko Station, where they enjoyed freshly cut buko for a quick and cooling treat. They then returned to the Consuelo Park Pavilion for a hearty brunch complemented by a refreshing drink sponsored by B’lue. The meal was followed by a lively raffle draw featuring prizes such as treat baskets, pastries from FPIP’s own locator-partner, Fuwa Fuwa, Travelon kits and Kursi stools from the Office of the Lopez Group Chairman, and mini-fridges from ER Creative Group, among many others.
Walk the Talk underscored its dual purpose: to champion the welfare and wellness of our employees and their families, while also advancing our commitment to regeneration and decarbonization. We not only celebrated our dedication to holistic well-being but also embraced our role in environmental stewardship. While each company that attended upholds and executes its own mission, it is through this shared experience that we see a unified tradition dedicated to honoring and embodying the values ingrained in all of us by Lopez Group.
02
Consuelo Park, a nature escape in Batangas
Within the bustling manufacturing estate of First Philippine Industrial Park (FPIP) lies Consuelo Park, a charming recreational park. Its scenic terrain of lush greens emulates ease and tranquility, offering locator-employees and guests a retreat away from the busy streets and factories that surround it.
Flourishing in its gentility, the park reflects the nurturing character of Ma. Consuelo Mercedes “Connie” Rufino Lopez, the late matriarch of the Lopez family and the inspiration behind the park’s name. Just as she embraced motherhood to care and provide for her family, the park was an outgrowth of her legacy, an answer to how FPIP can further vitalize and create a thriving and inclusive community in the estate for its locator-employees. Building Consuelo Park was the first step in mobilizing this vision.
Consuelo Park was thoughtfully designed to accommodate the varied recreational needs of both the locator-employees and the public. Upon entering the park, visitors are greeted by a 700-square meter outdoor amphitheater, an open area perfect for stimulating group activities or even just for lounging under the sun.
In the inner parts of the park awaits a 1.2-kilometer nature trail. Along the trail, visitors will find an assortment of amenities, such as educational signage, a red Japanese bridge, a koi pond, a viewing deck and a boardwalk, that will allow them to revel in nature and even learn the different plant species that thrive in the park. But apart from strolling, the park’s trail can be used for heart-pumping physical activities like jogging and cycling.
Consuelo Park was officially opened last Dec. 16, 2021. Since its soft opening, the park has already welcomed guests for casual leisure, company events and prenuptial shoots.
The park is open to the public for free from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. Visitors are highly encouraged to follow the park’s rules and regulations. To learn more, visit the FPIP Facebook page: facebook.com/FPIPInc.
03
Consuelo Park, charming events place in Batangas
Consuelo Park in Batangas has certainly stirred up a lot of interest in the past few months. The name “Consuelo Park” became a buzzword among Batangueños online as it garnered hundreds of positive reactions from different highprofile Facebook pages, such as those of First Philippine Industrial Park (FPIP) and the City Tourism & Cultural Heritage Development Office of Sto. Tomas, Batangas. Pretty soon, the excitement online quickly translated into more and more visitors wandering around and enjoying the park.
FPIP locator-employees, families, romantic couples, health enthusiasts and the like have found a place for recreation and relaxation in Consuelo Park; event organizers have found value and functionality in the park to hold get-togethers, especially with the rise in popularity of open-air event spaces amidst the COVID-19 situation.
The 700-square meter amphitheater near the park’s archway can cater to up to 600 guests, offering ample outdoor space for an array of social gatherings and activities. In addition to this, the 1.2-kilometer nature trail that rings the park provides a scenic path for leisurely strolls. The koi pond and Japanese bridge are fast becoming favorite Instagram spots!
After Consuelo Park was launched, FPIP’s “Wins and Wellness” event was held there in early 2022. Employees were invited to an afternoon picnic that combined a barbecue buffet and an assortment of outdoor activities that extended well into the evening with a lively cover band. The amphitheater has since become a venue for socializing and entertainment, with the open terrain ideal for relaxing pastimes and the trail perfect for rejuvenating bike rides.
In June 2022, Consuelo Park was included in Batangas Biker’s Club’s “Dayuhan Ride in Sto. Tomas” cycling route, welcoming a diverse set of cyclists through its arches. The park is also scheduled to host Rotary Club of Sto. Tomas’ “Color Fun Run” this November.
Consuelo Park is opening its gates to welcome more guests in the future. Soon to rise within is Consuelo Park Pavilion, which can hold large-scale events and accommodate up to 1,000 guests. To inquire about event bookings, email commercial.leasing@fpip.com.
04
Consuelo Park, gorgeous prenup shoot location in Batangas
While an engagement shoot is not a prerequisite for a successful wedding or a happy marriage, it is a chance to imprint lasting memories that you and your soon-to-be better half can look back on for years to come. After all, this will likely be a first-mile marker of your life together.
A great engagement shoot is not determined by the glamour of the dress, the brand name of the photographer or the visibility of the ring. What makes it great is the ability to capture the genuine love you have for each other. This is why it is important to choose a venue that will amplify pure and authentic love. What better way to do it than to have the shoot in a timeless venue?
Consuelo Park is First Philippine Industrial Park’s (FPIP) first recreational park. Tucked under a canopy of lush greens, its picturesque charm and quiet seclusion from the surrounding bustle of activity make it an ideal area for your engagement shoot. Its nature trail, tranquil scenery and eye-catching backdrops create the most magical atmosphere that will surely provide you with ample locations to capture the romance.
The park’s main features, the amphitheater and gazebo adjacent to each other, are wide open spaces perfect for shooting creative angles and unique themes that capture your relationship’s personality. Along the nature trail is a boardwalk with abundant foliage stringing overhead, allowing sunrays to dapple and illuminate the walkway for a romantic glow. Last but not least, Consuelo Park’s famous red Japanese bridge and koi pond paint an enchanting, scenic image one can imagine on a canvas and one that you can now replicate with your loved one.
While these are only some of the main spots to take photos at the park, Consuelo Park offers an abundance of simple yet radiant natural backdrops that are sure to please.
Consuelo Park is located at the heart of FPIP and is open for photoshoot bookings. To inquire or schedule a photoshoot appointment, email commercial.leasing@fpip.com.