GenPro ends Sinlaku food drive, marks 30th year by giving back to survivors

Instead of staging a grand celebration for its 30th anniversary in the CNMI, GenPro International Inc. chose to end its milestone year with a two-week food drive for survivors of Super Typhoon Sinlaku, donating about 3,800 meal packs across Saipan.

GenPro International vice president for marketing Naty Bui said the company had initially planned a major anniversary celebration similar to its 25th anniversary festivities.

“But when the typhoon hit Saipan, I talked to my manager and I said, ‘I think we need to change our plan. And it’s better to help our community because GenPro will be not here without Saipan,’” Bui told Marianas Press last May 6 during a thank you dinner with volunteers.

She added that the company’s roots in the CNMI influenced the decision to redirect anniversary funds toward relief efforts.

“So far we donated, as of today, 3,800 packs for two weeks,” she said.

GenPro, which distributes Philippine-made products including Lucky Me, banana chips, canned goods, condiments, and other grocery items, operates not only in the CNMI but also in Guam, Vietnam, the Middle East, and neighboring Pacific islands. It also has a branch in Guam managed by Buy’s son Justine and his wife, Maane.

Bui said the company viewed the relief effort as a more meaningful way to commemorate three decades in business.

“I think what is the best memorable that it will become the legacy of GenPro for 30 years,” she said. “So now I realize that instead of partying here, celebrating with our customers here in Saipan, why don’t we serve our community where people need the most.”

Saipan branch manager Jenny Cortez said the company’s owners have long quietly supported charitable causes.

“This is the first attempt that we try to advertise that GenPro is giving away food for the Sinlaku survivors,” Cortez said, noting that previous donations were usually done privately.

Cortez said the company decided the anniversary was an opportunity to give back to customers and the community that supported GenPro over the past three decades.

“Thirty years is like, yes, we’re ready to give back,” she said.

The meals were prepared by Puerto Rico Bento, one of GenPro’s longtime customers. Cortez said the caterer agreed to provide discounted pricing to support the community effort. She also acknowledged SuperTECH Saipan, Inc. for helping with donations during the final weekend of the food drive.

Bui thanked CNMI residents, customers, and employees for supporting the company through the years.

“I would like to thank you all, especially giving us an opportunity to have my business built here in Saipan for 30 years,” she said. “I really appreciate the people of CNMI, the government, and all our valued customers.”