Achieving Ecological Balance Sustainably: PMC and MMPRC's Endeavors
In a noteworthy collaboration, Philsaga Mining Corporation (PMC) and Mindanao Mineral Processing Refining Corporation (MMPRC) have come together with a shared vision to revitalize and enhance the ecological health of local creeks in the Bayugan 3 and Consuelo area. Their joint venture, known as the Adopt-a-Creek Orchestrated River Clean-up and Riparian Enhancement Program, was expertly organized by the Company's Mine Environmental Protection and Enhancement Office (MEPEO) and took place on September 30, 2023.
The principal objective of this program was to cleanse and enhance the banks of Agsao Creek, Bayugan 3 Creek, and Coo Creek, spanning a total distance of two kilometers. PMC and MMPRC rallied support from various organizations, including the Alpha Kappa Rho Fraternity, DENR-CENRO, DENR-MENRO, the community, the municipal LGUs of Rosario and Bunawan, and barangay LGUs of Bayugan 3 and Consuelo, to effectively execute the clean-up activity. The focal point rested on implementing proper waste segregation and disposal practices, leading to the successful removal of solid waste from the creeks and the preservation of their natural allure.
Additionally, the program placed great emphasis on reforestation and the conservation of biodiversity. As part of this endeavor, the banks of the creeks were enriched with the planting of 250 fruit tree seedlings. To guarantee the unimpeded growth of previously planted trees, a meticulous ring weeding process was implemented. Together, these efforts fostered the establishment of a sustainable ecosystem within the area. Appreciating the importance of assessing the impact of conservation endeavors, the MEPEO conducted regular water sampling to evaluate the quality of the creeks. The results were encouraging, as they aligned with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources' (DENR) established standards, thereby providing a testament to the program's success and effectiveness in upholding the ecological integrity of the creeks.
This laudable achievement serves as a testament to PMC and MMPRC's steadfast dedication to environmental sustainability. By cultivating collaborative relationships and actively involving numerous organizations, the Adopt-a-Creek Orchestrated River Clean-up and Riparian Enhancement Program has made significant progress in the restoration and augmentation of the ecological well-being of local creeks in the Bayugan 3 and Consuelo area. In doing so, they have set a remarkable example for other mining companies to follow, proving that responsible mining practices can effectively coexist alongside environmental preservation.