Tampakan, South Cotabato – Sagittarius Mines, Inc. (SMI) brought energy and opportunity to Barangay Tablu, in Tampakan, South Cotabato, as it rolled out a two-day Enterprise Training Development and Management Program last April 7-8, 2026, designed to spark local enterprise and equip residents with practical skills to build and grow their own livelihoods.
The training, primarily benefited women from the community, including Indigenous Peoples (IPs) and mothers who mostly stay at home. Through the program, participants were introduced to fundamental business concepts such as starting a small enterprise, managing capital, and handling basic financial operations. By strengthening their entrepreneurial skills, the program empowers them to become more productive and financially independent, contributing to their families’ well-being.
Jean Puli, president of Blaan Women’s Association of Barangay Tablu, Tampakan, expressed her gratitude and appreciation to SMI.
“Nalipay mi nga giimbitahan mi sa training, ug nagkahiusa ang mga babaye nga mu-participate aron mas daghan pa mi’g makat-onan. Nagpasalamat gyud mi sa SMI sa ilang pagtabang sa amoa. Amo gyud ibutang sa among hunahuna ug kasingkasing nga kining tanan malamboon, aron kami adunay makat-onan ug aduna mi’y income matag adlaw. Salamat SMI! “
As the Tampakan Project progresses toward future development, SMI envisions creating broader opportunities for employment, enterprise growth, and community advancement. Initiatives like this serve as early steps in preparing local residents to actively participate and benefit from the long-term economic opportunities that the project aims to generate.
SMI continues to demonstrate its commitment to responsible development—ensuring that as the project moves forward, more members of the host communities are equipped, empowered, and ready to share in the benefits it will bring. (30)
