- Immediate help benefits local projects run by Welthungerhilfe
- Continental locations not affected by catastrophe
Continental is making an ad-hoc donation of USD 200,000 to help the Philippines get back on its feet. "Continental has long felt a strong attachment to the country and its committed people. Fortunately, our own plants were not hit by the typhoon and its horribly destructive clout. The people in the devastated areas are, however, desperately in need of our help," declared Continental CEO Elmar Degenhart. "Together with colleagues on site, we have selected Welthungerhilfe as recipient organization as it will direct its involvement mainly at rural areas that have to endure difficult logistic conditions."
The company is, moreover, also giving affected employees with family members in the devastated areas extra time off in some cases. Many employees are also lending a hand as volunteer helpers in local organizations like the Philippine Red Cross. The staff's willingness to help is further evident in the fact that the Christmas celebrations planned for the Continental locations in the Philippines will not be held this year. Instead, the money allotted for the celebrations will be contributed as donations in support of immediate relief measures.
At its Manila and Calamba locations, Continental employs around 1,600 employees in all. The company produces electronic control units and sensor systems for the Chassis & Safety, Powertrain and Interior divisions at these sites for use in the automotive industry.