BATANGAS, Philippines – To give its workers more time to prepare and to enjoy parenthood, a manufacturing facility in Batangas institutionalized a progressive family leave policy which provides 20 weeks fully-paid leaves when welcoming a child.  This is regardless of employee gender, sexual orientation, or the way they become parents.

Recognized by the Top Employers Institute as No. 2 Top Employer in the Philippines, JTI Philippines is one of only 17 companies that received the certification this year.  It has made the Top Employers list for the fourth consecutive year and achieved its highest score ever for commendable people policies and practices worldwide

The company also launched the “Drive Ahead” initiative last year offering free driving lessons to women without driving experience who want to pursue a field-based career in JTI.  Since its inception, the program has so far benefitted at least 20 female JTI employees who are now licensed drivers. 

Meanwhile, its Bright Start program sponsors individuals from disadvantaged communities with the opportunity to earn a college degree while earning a salary and developing their careers at JTI.  Unlike other OJT (on-the-job training) programs, the scholars receive a full salary as a regular JTI employee in the same role would.   

These are only three of several employee programs that JTI implements to uphold employee wellbeing and development with inclusion at their core.

“To be awarded No. 2 Top Employer in the Philippines stands as a testament to how JTI puts its people at the heart of everything we do. Aside from continuing to improve our work environment and caring for their wellbeing, we pride ourselves on our focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion,” said Ari Wisnubroto, People & Culture Director of JTI Philippines.

In March, JTI will celebrate its 25th year in the Philippines as the fastest growing tobacco company in the country. 

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Wisnubroto said they owe these two milestones to their hardworking employees who live out the culture and values of JTI. 

“The Top Employer recognition is a celebration of our people and a pledge to continue cultivating a work environment that champions employees’ wellbeing, growth, and inclusion for many more years to come, she added.”  

Top Employers Institute is the #1 global authority on HR strategies.  This year, Top Employers Institute has certified more than 2,400 organizations in 125 countries/regions. These certified Top Employers positively impact the lives of over 13 million employees globally.

JTI in the Philippines is a global tobacco company with close to 40 branch offices across the country. With its market headquarters and a global business services center in Taguig City alongside its manufacturing facility in Malvar, Batangas, the company employs close to 5,500 people.

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