Posters from young artists showcase SMI's contribution to sustainable development and responsible mining
Tampakan, South Cotabato - Young artist Paul John G. Ulep of Kiblawan, Davao del Sur, believes in Sagittarius Mines, Inc. (SMI) and its goal to contribute to sustainable development in his community through responsible mining.
"For me, responsible mining means to support and guide the people who live near the mining areas, to give aid, and opportunities for them," Paul John said during the recent poster-making contest initiated by Sagittarius Mines, Inc. (SMI) during the 58th Araw ng Kiblawan celebration.
SMI initiated this poster-making project to raise awareness of responsible mineral development and to showcase responsible mining through art. Similar poster-making contests have also been held in the host municipalities of Columbio in Sultan Kudarat and Malungon in Sarangani.
The 26-year-old from Barangay Poblacion bested nine other budding artists of the host municipality with his piece showcasing SMI as a responsible mining company, highlighting its contribution to the socio-economic development of its host municipalities.
"My artwork depicts SMI leading the way for its host municipalities, guiding the locals, indigenous peoples, and the next generation towards a brighter future," he said proudly.
"I know that SMI has a good record as a mineral development company and has received numerous awards and distinctions for its excellent environmental management," Paul John added.
Another winner, Ronil Barcelonia of Barangay San Isidro, also recognized SMI’s contribution that continues to help his town prosper.
“Malaki talaga ang naitulong ng SMI sa amin dito sa Kiblawan. Marami sa aking mga kaibigan ang nakapagtapos ng pag-aaral dahil sa tulong ng SMI,” he said.
Barcelonia said he believes that the partnership between the mining company and the community is necessary to bring about more positive impacts and promising developments, not only for the host province but also for the whole nation.
“Kailangan ang pagtutulungan ng lahat ng sektor para po maabot natin ang ating pangarap na pag-unlad,” he added.
Third prize winner Mercy Loon, the young artist representing Barangay Kibungbung, also said she supports SMI as a responsible mining company, saying the company helps create employment opportunities and development.
“My artwork represents responsible mining as espoused by SMI!.” she said.
The top three winners received PhP 5,000, PhP 3,000, and PhP 2,000 for the first, second, and third places, respectively; on the other hand, the rest of the contestants received PhP 1,000 each. SMI provided all the painting materials used in the contest. (30)
2024-07-02
