Unilever Philippines, makers of popular home and personal care products, recently held the launching of the first coffee table book on Laguna de Bay entitled "Laguna de Bay: The Living Lake", where President Macapagal-Arroyo was the guest of honor.

The book, authored by Reynaldo Gamboa Alejandro, tells the story of Laguna de Bay, the Philippines' largest inland body of water. It brings the history, legend and lore together with visions for the future of the famous lake. The book likewise emphasizes the lake's importance as an indispensable source of clean water for fishing, drinking, recreation as well as an important habitat for endangered species.

Fully illustrated with contributions from notable writers and researchers in the Philippines, the book can serve as a reference tool and a bridge across the widening distance between the Filipinos' historic past and the appreciation of future generations. It will be sold in leading bookstores nationwide.

Published by Unilever Philippines, "Laguna de Bay: The Living Lake" is reflective of the company's strong environmental commitment, particularly on Clean Water Stewardship. The company has been a resident of Paco since 1927 and has been operating beside the Pasig River for 75 years now. It is due to this commitment to Pasig River that Unilever's water stewardship role has expanded to include La Mesa Dam and Laguna de Bay.

The launch was also graced by Global Unilever Chairman Antony Burgmans who was in Manila for a 3-day visit. Burgmans spoke on Unilever's sustainable development initiatives and water projects. Also present were various foreign and local dignitaries, artists, business partners and friends of Unilever. The launch likewise featured a well-applauded Black Theater performance of select Unilever employees, ethnic dances by the Philippine High School for the Arts, exhibits by Laguna and Rizal artisans, and a musical performance by the Makiling Ensemble.

Chairman Antony Burgmans is a signatory of the company's sustainable development initiatives, with focus on sustainable agriculture, fish conservation and clean water stewardship. Burgmans chaired the CEO Panel in the last World Water Forum held in 2000 in The Netherlands.

Unilever Philippines is celebrating its 75th year anniversary. Its businesses in the Philippines include foods, ice cream, home and personal care products.