Carmen Copper Corp. signed on March 4 a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with its host communities in Toledo City, Cebu on the five-year implementation of its Social Development and Management Program (SDMP).
Carmen Copper’s SDMP hopes to bring sustainable growth in mining communities through development programs, projects, and activities every year, according to a report.
The Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) 7 aided the municipal and barangay beneficiaries, and Carmen Copper in finalizing the SDMP projects.
MGB 7 chief science research specialist of Mine Safety, Environment and Social Development Division (MSESDD) Engineer Armando L. Malicse noted the importance of planning workshops that would result in projects mutually beneficial to the host communities and the mining firm.
He added that the bureau can provide consultations and the needed framework for the program.
“The law provides clear guidelines on the development and implementation of Projects, Projects and Activities (PPAs) under the SMDP,” Malicse said.
Under the MOA, the following barangays will benefit in the said program: Biga, Das, Media Once and Loay, as well as the neighboring barangays of Bagakay, Poog, Campo 8, Cantabaco, Pangamihan, General Climaco, Bunga, Cambang-hug, Sam-ang, Bulongan, Magdugo, Landahan and Subayon.
The developmental projects include support for local organizations, small business, and building farm-to-market roads, water systems, and schools, among others.
