Macquarie gives $A175,000 to empower Keitech Foundation to expand vocational education in Leyte

First Gen-Energy Development Corporation (“EDC”), a portfolio company managed by Macquarie Asset Management (MAM), has been recognised as a winner in the 2025 Macquarie Shared Value Award for its outstanding initiative, the Keitech Educational Foundation Inc. (“Keitech”).

Established in 2023, the Macquarie Shared Value Award recognises Macquarie teams or assets progressing initiatives that align business success with social impact, creating a positive impact on society while delivering business benefits. Since its inception, the award has granted over $A1.3 million to 11 organisations globally.

EDC is the Philippines’ largest geothermal energy producer, managing 1.5GW of renewable energy generation capacity across geothermal, solar, hydropower and wind. MAM acquired a majority stake in EDC in 2017 and during this time has supported the business as it increases the reliability and resilience of the Philippines’ renewable energy supply.

In 2009, in collaboration with the local government of Kananga in Leyte, EDC founded Keitech to help advance social purpose in the surrounding community alongside the growth of the business. Keitech addresses the critical need for vocational education among underserved high school graduates. Keitech aims to equip these young individuals with the skills and training necessary to thrive in high-demand industries such as construction, metals and engineering, and tourism. By improving access to local employment through technical vocational education, Keitech addresses the high unemployment rates and limited access to higher education in the region.

As one of the three winners of the first round of the 2025 Macquarie Shared Value Award, Keitech will receive a grant of $A175,000. This grant will further support the Keitech’s mission to provide high-quality vocational education and training, thereby enhancing the employability of its graduates and fostering sustainable community development.

“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 work together to create meaningful change,” said Jasmine Chew, Regional Head of Asia for the Macquarie Group Foundation.

“We’re proud to support Keitech’s mission. Their commitment to providing vocational education is helping underserved communities  access new opportunities and build a better future.”

“We are honored to receive the Macquarie Shared Value Award,” said Allan Barcena, Head of Corporate Support Functions, Energy Development Corporation. “This recognition underscores 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, demonstrating how strategic partnerships and community-focused projects can drive meaningful change.

For more information about Keitech and its programs, please visit Keitech’s website or watch the project video here.