From Theory to Practice: Aboitiz Future Leaders Explore Geothermal Energy

Aboitiz Future Leaders on a learning visit to Aboitiz Geothermal, exploring renewable energy and sustainability in action.

The Aboitiz Future Leaders, the college scholarship program of Aboitiz Foundation, went on a learning visit to AP Renewables Inc. MakBan Geo, one of the geothermal powerplants managed by the Aboitiz Power Corporation on November 9. Organized by Aboitiz Foundation, the activity is an opportunity for the scholars to see firsthand the operations of a key player in the Philippine energy industry. The activity is also a part of the learning sessions provided by the Foundation to its scholars.


Aboitiz Future Leaders, during the learning visit to the AP Renewables MakBan Geothermal Power Plant. The activity was capped off by the scholar’s annual year-end party

One of the scholars who joined the plant tour is Lance Esrac Matthew Calamiong, an Aboitiz Future Leader – Impact Team Intern and a graduating mechanical engineering student from the University of the Philippines, Diliman.

Lance has always been captivated by the energy sector, believing the massive influence and impact it holds over the country. “One of the sectors I am really interested in joining is the energy sector. I have always wanted to serve the Filipino people and positively influence the lives of those living here in the country. As an engineer, what better way to impact the lives of the Filipinos than to help facilitate the electricity that aids the country’s continuous development,” Calamiong said.

The chance to navigate and survey a geothermal power plant is a chance that a mechanical engineering student cannot miss. Before the tour, a mandatory briefing was conducted, which included a safety orientation and an overview of the MakBan Power Plant – its history, operation, and importance. The bulk of the plant visit was conducted via a guided bus tour, where the scholars explored the inner workings of the geothermal facility. The scholars were also able to enter the control room of one of the generators. They were able to see up close massive infrastructure and equipment that they might one day be able to operate.

“I am really happy with the tour. It was a great experience to be able to personally see the things that were taught to me in class. The equipment is a lot more massive than I thought – the cooling towers are as big as advertised but the scale of the turbines is bigger than I expected.


I felt like a kid that was finally able to see up close and understand the reality of the stories that my teachers kept telling me about,” Calamiong added.

Being an Aboitiz Future Leader, Lance is very thankful for the overwhelming support and encouragement the Aboitiz Foundation has given their scholars. He is extremely grateful for the opportunities they have continuously provided him.

 “I have always appreciated the effort that the foundation has put forth in ensuring that their scholars are presented with opportunities they would not have found elsewhere. And I am truly blessed to be a part of a program where they are never reluctant to give you that window of opportunity.”

“The Aboitiz Future Leaders learning visit to the MakBan Geothermal Power Plant is more than just a tour; it’s an immersive experience that bridges academic knowledge with real-world applications. By witnessing the operations of a geothermal facility, our scholars gain invaluable insights into renewable energy and sustainability, inspiring them to think critically about their role in building a better future for the country,” said Jowelle Ann Cruz, Aboitiz Foundation’s Impact Lead for Education.

The Aboitiz Future Leaders college scholarship program is a gateway to a brighter future for young, talented individuals with exceptional leadership potential. Beyond covering tuition fees, the Aboitiz provides personal and professional development opportunities to help Aboitiz scholars become future leaders.