TAMPAKAN, South Cotabato — In a continued demonstration of its commitment to environmental sustainability, Sagittarius Mines, Inc. (SMI) successfully held a coastal cleanup in Barangay Bawing, General Santos City, on Saturday, January 31, 2025.
Recognizing that meaningful change begins at home, SMI anchors its external clean-up efforts on practices that start within the organization—encouraging employees to keep their workplaces clean, properly segregate waste, and reduce plastic use in their daily routines before bringing the same discipline and advocacy to the communities they serve.
The initiative, which involved SMI employees, staff, and partner organizations, highlighted the company’s strong belief that environmental protection is a shared responsibility that should be embraced every day. SMI’s Corporate Security Department Senior Superintendent, Rembert Baylosis, emphasized that environmental care should not be confined to specific events or seasons. Traditionally held during the month of May, coastal cleanups are often seen as a yearly activity. However, Baylosis urged that the task of cleaning and protecting the environment should be a consistent practice.
“Ang coastal cleanup ay karaniwang ginaganap tuwing buwan ng Mayo, ngunit hindi na natin kailangang maghintay pa. Araw-araw dapat nating isabuhay ang ating obligasyon na linisin at pangalagaan ang ating kapaligiran,” Baylosis said, stressing the importance of making environmental stewardship part of daily life.
During the cleanup, participants successfully gathered 20 sacks of trash, which included plastic water bottles, food sachets, and other waste that had accumulated along the coastline. The activity not only addressed immediate pollution but also aimed to raise awareness about the ongoing need for cleaner, healthier surroundings.
The event received support from several partner organizations, including FEMJEG Security Agency. Mr. Jesus Apolonio, the agency’s Managing Director, commended SMI for its steadfast environmental commitment, noting the success of the cleanup and the active participation of various stakeholders.
“Lubos kaming nagpapasalamat sa management ng Sagittarius Mines, Inc. Dahil sa kanilang malasakit sa kalikasan, naging matagumpay ang aktibidad na ito. Maraming lumahok mula sa SMI at maging sa amin, bilang security service provider,” Apolonio shared.
The activity concluded with a sumptuous budol fight, where participants shared food and strengthened camaraderie among attendees.
As a responsible mining company, SMI continues to ensure compliance with environmental laws while promoting sustainable practices in the communities around the Tampakan Project area. By starting its clean-up and waste management efforts within the organization and extending these to its host and neighboring communities, the company reinforces its role as a leader in promoting environmental awareness and fostering a culture of care for nature. (30)
