The Beginning of El Nido Foundation
The establishment of El Nido Foundation, Inc. (ENF) was spearheaded by the Andres Soriano Jr. Foundation (ASJRF), under the leadership of Carlos T. Soriano. ASJRF was the pioneering development organization in El Nido through the Ten Knots Development Corporation (TKDC), owner and developer of El Nido Resorts.
Since 1994, El Nido Foundation has uplifted lives and preserved nature through community-driven conservation and development programs. We have become a catalyst for positive change, bringing together diverse stakeholders to work towards a common vision of sustainable development.
Our Vision
The vision of the Foundation is to build a prosperous and sustainable El Nido community as the result of public and private partnership and orchestrated development initiatives.
Our Mission
The mission of the Foundation is to mobilize all sectors in the community to move towards the attainment of El Nido's shared vision of having a model community: centered on God, environment, and people; healthy, nationalistic, and united in its goal of achieving sustainable development.
The Foundation will promote the improvement of socio-economic condition of El Nido's residents and, at the same time, preserve its resources for the future generation to enjoy and benefit from.
It will provide opportunities to the private sector to collaborate with government and non-government organizations in implementing programs and projects whose outputs or results will contribute to the attainment of the community's shared vision.
Our Core Values
These principles guide everything we do and shape our approach to community development and environmental conservation.
Integrity
We uphold the highest standards of honesty, transparency, and accountability in all our actions, ensuring trust and credibility within the community.
Creativity
Innovation drives our solutions. We embrace new ideas and approaches to address challenges, fostering sustainable and impactful development.
Partnership
Collaboration is key to progress. We work closely with the private sector, government, and civil society to create meaningful and lasting change.
Accomplishments
We take pride in measurable achievements that improve lives and protect our natural resources, ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.
Commitment
Our dedication to El Nido's shared vision is unwavering. We strive to create a thriving, united, and environmentally responsible community.
Our Impact Since 1994
Protecting coral reefs from anchor damage
61% are mangrove areas conserved for future generations
Families empowered through sustainable income opportunities
Snorkelers and divers trained in sustainable practices
What We Do
Over the years, El Nido Foundation has worked with civil society and people's organizations, local and national governments, private institutions, funding agencies, and research and academic institutions, in addressing the interrelation between poverty and environmental issues.
Together with our partners and donors, the Foundation has initiated and implemented programs on:
- Resource Management
- Reef Restoration and Education
- Water Resource Conservation and Rehabilitation
- Sustainable Agriculture
- Sustainable Livelihoods
- Ecotourism and Tourism-Support Services
- Primary Health Care (Malaria Control Project)
About El Nido
Located on the northernmost tip of the Palawan mainland, the Municipality of El Nido covers a land area of 92,326 hectares comprised of 18 barangays, of which ten are coastal and four are considered semi-urban.
447 Species
Hard corals identified (with 44 unconfirmed species)
910 Species
Reef fish species documented
50,494
Population (2020 Census, 4.16% growth rate)
El Nido is a nesting area of three species of turtles (green, hawksbill, and olive ridley), and is a feeding ground of such marine mammals as dugongs, whales and dolphins.
Community Involvement
ENF believes that the active involvement of all stakeholders in the community is vital to advance consensus in sustainable resource management.
We work closely with:
- Barangay representatives and people's organizations
- Local government officials and implementers
- Concerned civic and development groups
- Private sector partners
- Research and academic institutions
Join Us in Building a Sustainable Future
Whether you're interested in volunteering, partnering, or supporting our programs, there are many ways to get involved with El Nido Foundation.