Tampakan, South Cotabato — In the small community of Barangay San Isidro in Tampakan, South Cotabato, one man’s story stands as a testament to hard work, resilience, and the life-changing opportunities brought by responsible employment, especially for community members who continue to support and believe in the Tampakan Project, whom Sagittarius Mines Inc. (SMI) prioritizes in its hiring.
For many years, Edilberto Albarico has served as an Environmental Nursery Aide at Sagittarius Mines Inc. (SMI). But long before the company became known by its current name, he was already part of its early operations.
“Dili pa SMI ang pangalan ato nga time, 2005 pa lang, nakasugod na ko diri as rotational worker. Ma-assign ko sa bukid, sabay ko sa monitoring sa soil ug tree inventory,” Edilberto recalled.
From the very beginning, Edilberto showed dedication in his work, supporting environmental initiatives such as soil monitoring and tree inventory, key efforts in sustainable land management. His role in the company’s Mine Environmental Protection and Enhancement Department reflects not only his commitment to his job but also his connection to the land he once solely depended on as a farmer.
“Tinuod lang, farmer gyud ko. Pero dako ang tabang sa SMI sa amoa. Gi tabangan nila ko nga maka trabaho,” he shared.
Edilberto carried the responsibility of raising and providing for his family. With two children to support, his job at SMI became more than just employment, it became a pathway to a better future.
“Pagsugod nako sa SMI, mao na nag suporta sa akong mga anak pag-eskwela hangtod naka-graduate sila. Dako gyud kaayo ang tabang sa kumpanya. Didto ra gyud ko nagsalig sa akong sweldo, mao ra among source of income, pero naka-sustain gyud sa among adlaw-adlaw nga panginahanglan.”
Through years of dedication and sacrifice, Edilberto proudly shares that both of his children have now finished their education and are already professionals, and to him, this is a milestone that once felt like a distant dream.
His story reflects how livelihood opportunities can uplift families and open doors for the next generation, especially in communities like Tampakan where stable employment can change the course of a family’s future.
Looking ahead, Edilberto expresses hope not just for himself, but for the many others who depend on the company.
“Unta magpadayon ang operasyon sa kumpanya kay dako kaayo ang tabang sa SMI sa mga taga-Tampakan. Daghan kaayo ang natabangan, unta magpadayon lang gyud ilang mga programa ug suporta sa komunidad.”
At the heart of Edilberto Albarico’s journey is the role of Sagittarius Mines Inc. that goes beyond operations and invests in people. Through stable employment and community support, SMI has helped turn simple livelihoods into lasting opportunities. Edilberto’s story is a clear reflection of how the company continues to shape futures in Tampakan—one family, one worker, one dream at a time. (30)
