At TVI Resource Development Philippines Inc. (TVIRD), rehabilitating the environment is not just a matter of compliance — it is a long-term commitment deeply rooted in the organization’s respect for nature’s healing processes. Guided by the principles of natural plant succession, the company’s approach to revegetation mirrors the natural growth of forests over time. This dedication is a cornerstone of TVIRD’s operations, ensuring a lasting positive impact on its surrounding environment.
This method, while simple and cost-effective, has proven highly effective in restoring wildlife habitats. It begins with planting fast-growing grasses, followed by shrubs and vines, and eventually native tree species that form mature woodlands. TVIRD strengthens this approach by cultivating suitable indigenous plant species in its own nursery — homegrown seedlings that support reforestation efforts and are well-adapted to the local environment.
Environmental Manager Jjam Cutillas explained, “At TVIRD, rehabilitation is not just the title of our manual — it’s a long-term promise to nature. We follow nature’s rhythm in healing the land, allowing vegetation to return in the same order it once grew.”
As of June this year, 31.88 hectares of disturbed areas have already been successfully rehabilitated in Sitio Balabag, with pioneering grasses and shallow-rooted fruit trees establishing the foundation for future growth and biodiversity.
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A Massive Undertaking
TVIRD’s impact goes well beyond the restoration of mined-out areas. To date, it has established plantations within and beyond its mining areas, totaling 1,136 hectares. This translates to more than 1.2 million trees planted — an impressive effort backed by a remarkable survival rate of 94.10%, thanks to rigorous care and monitoring practices that ensure trees not only survive but thrive.
“What makes our work meaningful is knowing that every tree we plant has a purpose, whether it’s to bring back wildlife, stabilize the soil, or one day be part of a larger forest. We take pride in growing most of these from our very own nursery and using native species that truly belong to the land,” Cutillas added.
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Regenerating Forests the Natural Way
TVIRD also champions Assisted Natural Regeneration (ANR) — a sustainable method focused on enhancing existing forest vegetation and allowing nature to lead the way. In collaboration with DENR Region IX, strategic areas within the company’s mining area were identified for this initiative. ANR involves nurturing naturally growing trees, planting indigenous species, and ensuring consistent maintenance and protection.
As of June 2025, a total of 456.44 hectares of ANR and enhancement plantations have been established, where earth-balled saplings and wildlings were planted in compliance with Special Tree Cutting and Earth-balling Permit (STCEP) conditions.
Of this total, the 152.67-hectare enhancement plantation established from July 2024 to June 2025 saw the planting of 152,670 indigenous and fruit tree species within the MPSA, mostly dipterocarp species. Additionally, 1,667 bamboo trees covering 8.33 hectares were planted during the same period.
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Environmental Stewardship as a Shared Commitment
“Our environmental programs are driven by a shared commitment — one that every employee participates in. From weekly tree-planting activities to major rehabilitation projects, we all play a part in rebuilding what nature has given us. And that’s something we take to heart,” Cutillas concluded.
Environmental awareness is deeply instilled in TVIRD Group’s culture. Through its weekly tree-growing program, various departments come together regularly to plant and care for the land. Everyone in TVIRD has a role to play in restoring the balance of nature, with purpose for every week and every season.
