Digos City, Davao del Sur — In a demonstration of solidarity with Indigenous Peoples (IPs), Sagittarius Mines, Inc. (SMI) participated in the 6th Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative (IPMR) Summit held in Digos City, Davao del Sur, to support initiatives aimed at advancing the rights, welfare, and empowerment of Indigenous communities.
The summit, held on November 11, 2025, at the Viewpoint Hotel, was organized by the Provincial Government of Davao del Sur in partnership with the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) and various local government units. The event served as a significant platform to strengthen Indigenous leadership, reinforce traditional governance systems, and promote inclusive participation in local decision-making processes.
Throughout the gathering, IP leaders and representatives engaged in workshops and discussions on customary laws, environmental protection, and sustainable livelihood development. These discussions highlighted the importance of Indigenous-driven governance and its critical role in building resilient, self-sustaining communities.
SMI’s participation reflects its longstanding commitment to fostering meaningful partnerships with Indigenous Cultural Communities (ICCs/IPs) within its areas of operation. The company continues to uphold its advocacy for culturally grounded, inclusive, and community-centered development initiatives.
In his message, Mr. Julius Gregory B. Delgado, Tenements and Permitting Superintendent of SMI, reiterated the company’s commitment, stating:
“Our host Indigenous Cultural Communities are not only stakeholders—they are partners in progress and development. On behalf of SMI, I express our solidarity with our brothers and sisters, the Indigenous Peoples of Davao del Sur, as you continue to strengthen the foundations of Indigenous governance.”
SMI remains steadfast in its pursuit of meaningful, respectful, and inclusive engagement with Indigenous communities, guided by the belief that genuine progress can only be achieved when development is pursued in partnership with the people it aims to uplift. (30)
