Agata Mining Ventures Inc., operator of the maiden nickel mining project of TVI Resource Development Philippines Inc. (TVIRD), which is now in its final rehabilitation stage, was recognized by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) with both regional and national Kabalikat Awards last November 24 at the Philippine Trade Training Center in Pasay City.
The company was conferred honors for demonstrating its strong commitment to industry development and community empowerment through its partnership with TESDA. Its contributions to technical-vocational education and training (TVET) likewise highlight its role in fostering growth and enhancing the skills of the local workforce.
The Kabalikat Awards is TESDA's premier recognition program for public and private sector partners whose collaboration has significantly strengthened the country's TVET ecosystem. This year's awardees, including Agata, represent diverse sectors that have gone beyond supporting skills training, employability, and inclusive workforce development.
The National Award
The Agata Nickel Laterite Project concluded its successful nine-year run in 2023 — a project that established the TVIRD Group as a steady supplier of nickel ore to Asian direct markets and helped elevate the host towns of Tubay and Santiago from fourth- to first-class municipalities.
At the same time, its host municipality, Jabonga, progressed from fourth- to second-class status, further validating that TVIRD's approach to social progress is the right one.
Despite already being in its final mine rehabilitation phase and being converted into a nature farm, Agata emerged as the national TESDA awardee in the Industry Category for its apprenticeship and employment programs for local trainees through its Mabakas Techno Demo Farm. The award likewise underscores Agata's role in aligning industry-led skills development with TESDA's mission to produce a globally competitive Filipino workforce.
"Taon-taon, napapatunayan natin na (every year, we prove that) it takes collaboration to really make the change that we want to see. So, today is a chance for us to once again show that when we work together — that is, the government, the industry, and academe — we shape a better future for every Filipino," said TESDA Director General Jose Francisco "Kiko" Benitez during the awarding ceremony, underscoring the importance of partnerships and encouraging greater teamwork.
He further emphasized the pivotal role of private sector Kabalikat awardees: “You help provide the necessary tools and infrastructure, and you facilitate employment and enrichment of our TVET graduates. Kaya hindi maitatanggi na malaki ang contribution ninyo sa socio-economic development ng bansa (your enormous contribution to the country’s socio-economic development cannot be denied).”
The Regional Accolade
On the regional level, Agata's achievement was celebrated along with other local awardees, including the Provincial Government of Agusan del Norte. TESDA Caraga Regional Director Florencio F. Sunico Jr. expressed that when sectors work together, they can uplift local communities and improve lives through shared initiatives.
Agata received top honors last December 18 at the JMX Convention Center in Butuan City.
"As we close the year, we celebrate another milestone for the TVIRD Group. Being recognized as both a regional and national TESDA Kabalikat awardee reflects Agata's unwavering commitment to uplifting the lives of its communities through innovative and sustainable livelihood programs," stated TVIRD Director for Environment and concurrent Agata General Manager for Final Rehabilitation Jesalyn Guingguing, EnP.
This recognition not only honors Agata's contributions but also emphasizes how its collaboration with TESDA benefits local communities and stakeholders through capacity building and employment opportunities that support socio-economic growth, according to the executive.
About the Kabalikat Awards
The TESDA Kabalikat Awards is one of the highest honors given annually by TESDA to outstanding partners who significantly contribute to strengthening technical-vocational education and training in the Philippines. It recognizes institutions, local government units, legislators, organizations, and industry partners whose consistent support has expanded public access to skills training, livelihood programs, and employment opportunities for Filipinos, as well as heralds TESDA's mission of building a skilled and globally competitive workforce.
Through its ongoing collaboration with TESDA, Agata advances its social responsibility objectives by empowering Filipinos with skills and opportunities, reinforcing its commitment to inclusive development and sustainable industry growth.
About TVI in the Philippines
TVI Resource Development Philippines Inc. ("TVIRD") is owned in part by TVI Pacific Inc. (TSX: TVI), a publicly listed Canadian mining company focused on the exploration, development, and production of precious and base metals from district-scale, large-system, high-margin projects located in the Philippines. Concurrent ownership of ventures is shared with partner company Prime Resource Holdings Inc.
The Agata Nickel Laterite Mine is the third successful mining project that TVIRD brought on stream in a period of 10 years, while its Balabag Gold-Silver Mine further cements its position as a steady producer of precious metals in the country. With the commercial operations of its Siana Gold Mine, the company's proven track record and commitment to responsible mining practices promote transparency, responsible stewardship of the environment, and the inalienable rights to life, dignity, and sustainable development of its host communities, ensuring a secure and sustainable future for the project.
