Dole Philippines, Inc. (Dolefil) was established in 1963 in Polomolok, South Cotabato, and operates a vertically integrated food processing facility in Mindanao. With 95% of its fresh pineapples, canned pineapple slices, and other products exported worldwide, Dolefil produces over 26 million standard cases of processed pineapple and ships 13 million boxes of fresh pineapples annually.
As one of the largest multinational companies in Region XII of the Philippines, Dolefil’s operations span 20,340 hectares of farms, fresh fruit packing operations with a daily capacity of 40,000 boxes, canneries in Surallah and Polomolok that process 1 million tonnes of pineapples yearly, and shipping terminals in Gensan and Davao. With 8,900 employees as its driving force, Dolefil is committed to fostering an equitable world where everyone has the right to nutrition from the goodness of the earth, closing these gaps one action at a time.
Guided by the Sampo Yoshi Philosophy
Dolefil’s approach to business is rooted in the Sampo Yoshi philosophy, which means creating value for the buyer, the seller, and the community. This guiding principle is reflected in its sustainable operations and stakeholder-driven initiatives. Ensuring its purpose remains steadfast, Dolefil is supported by Dolefil Kaugnay, a robust labor management union that upholds industrial peace, employee welfare, and an inclusive feedback system. Through this collaborative culture, employees are actively involved in decision-making and open communication is encouraged.
Dolefil Kaugnay aligns with the Philippines’ Department of Labour and Employment’s (DoLE) 10 dimensions of Family Welfare Programs. This alignment has enabled the company to institutionalize various initiatives that positively impact employees, their families, and the broader community. Despite facing labor-management conflicts in its early years, the establishment of Kaugnay in 1990 marked a significant organizational turnaround. Similarly, Dolefil responded swiftly and effectively to challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, implementing measures to ensure business continuity while safeguarding employees and stakeholders.
Environmental Stewardship and Sustainable Agriculture
One of Dolefil’s greatest challenges is the impact of environmental changes on pineapple production. To mitigate these risks, the company has implemented a Regenerative Agriculture Program aimed at improving soil health and vitality. Solutions include minimum tillage as a soil conservation system, soil erosion control programs, composting, the use of biomass and biogas, and carbon sequestering. These efforts ensure long-term sustainability and resilience against climate-related challenges.
People-First Approach to Employee Welfare
Dolefil recognizes its people as its greatest asset and goes beyond legal requirements to provide a fulfilling employee experience. With an attrition rate of less than 10%, mainly due to normal retirement, the company fosters a supportive workplace where employees are encouraged to grow. Learning and development programs are incorporated into annual performance reviews and serve as a prerequisite for career advancement.
Commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility
CSR is embedded in Dolefil’s DNA, with initiatives anchored in the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations. Among its flagship programs are Ridge to Reef, which focuses on green leadership and environmental conservation, Nutripan, which promotes social empowerment by addressing nutrition and food security, and Caravan of Hope, which extends health promotion efforts to communities in need. These initiatives, along with various other CSR activities, actively involve employees and customers, creating opportunities for collective action and meaningful impact.
Setting the Benchmark for Responsible Business
Dolefil’s values and best practices have been benchmarked by both local and global businesses, earning recognition as one of Asia’s Most Influential Companies by ACES. With a steadfast commitment to environmental and social responsibility, Dolefil continues to lead by example, inspiring other organizations to adopt sustainable and people-centric business practices.
“Dole Philippines, Inc. fulfils its duty of care in the most detailed and calculated way. It is not often that you see businesses foster a workplace that can be a source of positive energy and support, but Dolefil has done it tremendously well while gradually making an impact in the world. If I were a part of the company, taking pride in it would be an understatement.”
Shanggari Balakrishnan, Chief Executive Officer, MORS Group - Many businesses don’t realise that how the management chooses to treat people impacts everything for better or worse. Dole Philippines, Inc. puts the wellbeing of its stakeholders, such as its employees and the community above all else, and proves that it is certainly a force to be reckoned with. We cannot wait to see how the company continues to flourish.
