SANTIAGO CITY — Four mining companies in Region 2 (Cagayan Valley) have collectively invested P67.3 million in reforestation efforts.
This partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has resulted in the establishment of 2,056 hectares of forest plantations in the region.
DENR Regional Director Gwendolyn Bambalan confirmed the four mining firms’ initiative, commending them for their support of the government’s reforestation efforts.
The mining companies mentioned include OceanaGold Philippines Inc., a Canadian firm that operates the Didipio Mine in Kasibu, Nueva Vizcaya; FCF Minerals Corp., a British company running the Runruno Gold Project in Quezon, Nueva Vizcaya; Dinapigue Mining Corp., located in the coastal town of Dinapigue in Isabela; and JDVC Resources Corp., which operates in the coastal towns of Cagayan province.
Bambalan emphasized how the companies’ contributions have empowered local organizations, transforming ordinary villagers into community leaders and advocates for sustainability.
“The efforts of the mining companies have created livelihood opportunities for 1,114 individuals across 45 barangay (villages) in the provinces of Cagayan, Isabela, Quirino, and Nueva Vizcaya,” Bambalan said.
She stated that this flagship initiative demonstrates how mining can regenerate, not just by extracting minerals.
“This partnership has demonstrated that environmental protection and economic development must coexist. This embodies the principle of responsible mining,” Bambalan stated.
