SMI's Pusong Minero extends assistance to Tampakan communities amid El Niņo crisis
Tampakan, South Cotabato – Local government officials and residents in Tampakan, South Cotabato has expressed their gratitude to Sagittarius Mines, Inc. (SMI) for its relief assistance to families adversely affected by the onslaught of the El Niño phenomenon.
SMI's Community Development Superintendent Julius Clarete said a total of 15,750 residents from 16 barangays and indigenous cultural communities (ICCs) of the host municipality of Tampakan each received a relief pack of two kilograms of rice.
Mr. Clarete said the company allocated a total of PhP1.7 Million for this Pusong Minero relief mission in Tampakan. He added that SMI allocated separate funding for relief missions to other affected families in its host provinces of South Cotabato and Sultan Kudarat and in Matanao, Davao del Sur.
"This initiative provided much-needed sustenance to the residents of Tablu, showcasing the company's commitment to the well-being of the community. The act of generosity not only alleviated food insecurities but also fostered a sense of unity and care within the barangay," members of the Sangguniang Kabataan in Barangay Tablu posted on Facebook.
"Sagittarius Mines Incorporated's sponsorship of the rice distribution exemplifies corporate social responsibility in action, making a tangible and positive impact on the lives of the people in Barangay Tablu," it added.
Nora Sukal, a Blaan leader, said she was also thankful to the assistance from the mining company.
"Maraming salamat Sagittarius Mines Inc. sa pag-distribute o sa pagbigay ng bigas sa aming barangay. Sana po ipagpatuloy nyo ito dahil malaking bagay po ito para sa amin, dahil sa hirap ng buhay ngayon po gawa ng El Niño po," Sukal said.
"Thanks SMI, dahil anjan po kayo lagi sa oras na kailangan ng community ang tulong nyo, anjan po kayo lagi," she added.
Aside from the relief packs, SMI also rationed 18,940 liters of mineral drinking water to households and schools.
"Inisyatibo ng SMI na makatulong sa kakulangan ng tubig sa paaralan dulot pa rin ng matinding init na nararanasan. Salamat po sa inyo!," the Lampitak National High School in Barangay Lampitak announced on social media.
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)
2024-06-03
