In a proactive move highlighting its commitment to security and the safety of the business community, Isla Group has collaborated with the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) for a high-level dialogue to address security concerns affecting a Japanese business group operating in Makati City.
Held at the main office of Isla Group, makers of the country’s top LPG brand, Solane, in Zuellig Building in Makati, the event brought together executives from Isla as well as other companies represented by Japanese officials, officers from NAPOLCOM, and members of the Philippine National Police (PNP) to discuss a shared goal: ensuring peace of mind for customers and the greater Makati community.
While Solane is known for safely delivering household and commercial LPG across the country, the company is extending its mission by actively supporting peace and order in its home city through partnerships with law enforcement.
ONE FOR ALL, ALL FOR ONE. Members of the Japanese business communities discusses safety and security issues during their dialogue held at Isla Group headquarters in Makati. This initiative is not a reaction to any specific crime wave, but a proactive step that aligns with Solane’s commitment to safety.
“Peace of mind isn’t just about knowing your LPG tank is safe—it’s about feeling secure in your surroundings,” said Banjo Castillo, Isla Group Chief Operating Officer. “Through this collaboration with NAPOLCOM, we want to amplify that sense of security for our customers, employees, and neighbors here in Makati.”
The event began with a quick tour of the Isla’s headquarters, followed by formal introductions and a photo opportunity. Tomoaki Asai, Chief Executive Officer of the Isla Group, lead the dialogue alongside with other Japanese management representing different companies and industries that are all based in Makati. Asai, provided a contextual overview of why this dialogue is especially meaningful for them, noting that safety is a deeply held value both in their corporate philosophy and culture.
Throughout the discussion, senior police officials and legal representatives reiterated the importance of private sector partnerships in boosting public trust and improving community safety programs.
NAPOLCOM’s Vice Chairperson and Executive Officer Atty. Rafael Vicente Calinisan, emphasized how corporations like the Isla Group can act as key enablers of peace and security through information sharing, awareness campaigns, and emergency coordination.
ISLA GROUP AND NAPOLCOM PARTNERSHIP FOR SAFETY. Atty. Ralph Calinisan during a dialogue and meeting with the members of the Japanese business community, led by Isla Group management.
“This is not just about policing—it’s about creating a culture of safety where businesses and law enforcement work hand in hand,” Calinisan said. “Solane’s commitment to customer well-being now extends beyond the product into the community.”
A significant portion of the dialogue focused on the actionable components of the partnership. Among the points raised include; Joint safety awareness campaigns that will educate the public not just on LPG safety, but also on personal and community security; Coordinated emergency response protocols between Isla LPG and local police units in case of LPG-related incidents such as leaks or fire; and lastly, support from the PNP in distributing educational materials and conducting security briefings, especially in barangays with high customer concentration.
COMMITMENT TO SECURITY AND SAFETY. Atty. Ralph Calinisan humbly offers his apologies to one of the members of Japanese businessmen who attended the Isla Group led dialogue with NAPOLCOM. This came after a series of security lapses that alarmed the Japanese business community in Makati.
Isla’s executives also highlighted that the initiative is part of a long-term vision, one that seeks to create “safe zones” for businesses and residents by promoting vigilance, preparedness, and open communication with authorities.
“This partnership with NAPOLCOM is not a one-time event,” Castillo added. “It’s a sustained effort to reinforce the trust our customers have placed in us. We want to be known not just for safe LPG, but as a brand that genuinely cares about the well-being of the people we serve.”
The event closed with a commitment from both sides to further expand the dialogue into actionable programs that benefit both the business district and surrounding communities.
In a time where safety and public trust are as important as service delivery, Solane’s latest endeavor sets an example of how the private and public sectors can co-create value—not only for their respective stakeholders, but for the community at large.
The initiative by Isla could potentially pave the way for increased cooperation between other business groups and NAPOLCOM to tackle specific security issues affecting various sectors and communities within Metro Manila. By taking a leading role in this dialogue, Isla Group is demonstrating a commitment to not only its own stakeholders but also to the overall business climate and the safety of the international community operating in the Philippines.
