(from left)Phu Bia Mining Managing Director, Steve Gimpel (first left); Medical Doctor, Dr Anongxai Khoutphouthone;Regional Chief Medical Officer, Dr Bounhome Phouvong and Company’s representatives following the virtual Awards ceremony in Vientiane.

Phu Bia Mining’s HIV and AIDS programme recognised at 2022 ARROW Awards

Phu Bia Mining’s outstanding HIV and AIDS programme has been recognised at the 4th Asean Red Ribbon for Outstanding Workplace (ARROW) Awards, during the 8th meeting of the Asean Business Coalition on HIV and AIDS held in Singapore on October 12-13.
This award recognises companies in the region that implement initiatives to create a safe and healthy working environment through HIV and AIDS awareness and prevention programmes.

A Phu Bia Mining doctor provides HIV and AIDS education to residents of Nam Mo and Nam Gnone villages in Xaysomboun province.

Since 2016, the Asean ARROW Awards are held every two years and this year, for the first time, Lao companies were invited to participate.
In August, Phu Bia Mining and two other companies were shortlisted by the Lao government’s 2022 ARROW Awards selection panel. The government nominated Phu Bia Mining for the awards, in recognition of the Company’s good practice HIV and AIDS programme targeted at its employees, contractors and local communities in Xaysomboun province.
The Company’s initiatives are designed to increase knowledge and awareness of sexually transmitted infections and HIV prevention, treatment, and care, combat stigma and discrimination, spark public debate, and provide medical support to those living with HIV. Phu Bia Mining’s Chairman, Mr Chanpheng Bounnaphol, spoke proudly of the recognition which acknowledges the Company’s ongoing commitment to protecting the health of people in Laos. “The Company is honoured to receive the ARROW Award. On behalf of the Board of Phu Bia Mining, I would like to thank the Government of Laos for its nomination, and the Asean Business Coalition on HIV and AIDS for this recognition.
“This Award acknowledges the Company’s efforts that align with the Government of Laos and health authorities’ approach to preventing the spread of HIV and AIDS across its operating sites and local communities.
“I would also like to thank and congratulate every employee who has contributed to initiatives recognised by this Award. In particular, the site medical teams for their outstanding approach to implementing health and safety programmes that protect our people and communities,” Mr Bounnaphol said.

By Times Reporters
 (Latest Update October 18, 2022)