SMI cited for 2024 community development projects in Kiblawan, Davao del Sur
Tampakan, South Cotabato - Kiblawan, Davao del Sur Mayor Joel "Jojo" Calma on Tuesday cited Sagittarius Mines, Inc. (SMI) for its sustainable programs and projects that help alleviate the lives of his constituents.
Mayor Calma, vocal in expressing favor for responsible mining, said he is also thankful to the company for its latest release of community development grant for the 30 barangays under his jurisdiction.
SMI, the partner of the Philippine government for the development and extraction of one of the largest undeveloped copper and gold deposits in the world, handed over Php1.5 million fund to the municipal government unit as first tranche of its commitment under the 2024 Social Development and Management Program (SDMP).
As one of the host municipalities of the Tampakan Copper-Gold Project, Kiblawan receives Php3 million annual social development fund from SMI, that is aimed towards the sustained improvement of the living standards of the host municipality.
The local chief executive said that they will utilize the SDMP fund for their planned livelihood, infrastructure, education, health, and other development projects for the year.
“We are thankful to SMI for all of its development programs for the local communities,” Calma said during the simple turnover ceremony held at the mayor’s office on January 23, 2024.
With all major approvals and permits from the national government secured, SMI is ready to start construction this year and produce its first copper concentrate in mid-2027. (30)
2024-01-24
