Taganito Mining Corp. (TMC) has committed to fund a P9.85-million provincial greening project in Agusan del Sur, supporting forest restoration and sustainable coffee production as part of a broader effort to expand environmental conservation and livelihood opportunities.
The company joined the Provincial Government of Agusan del Sur, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and local government units during the Provincial Greening Project and Coffee Production Stakeholders' Meeting held in Patin-ay, Prosperidad.
As one of the project's key private sector partners, TMC will finance the development of 50 hectares under the initiative.
The project complements the government's National Greening Program by restoring forest areas while promoting coffee farming as a sustainable source of income for local communities.
Governor Santiago B. Cane Jr. welcomed the partnership, saying collaboration between government agencies and the mining industry is essential to achieving the province's environmental objectives.
"There is the National Greening Program of the DENR, and there are mining companies willing to come into the picture by providing funds. We are very pleased because this will complement all our efforts in the project," Cane said.
He also reaffirmed the provincial government's commitment to ensuring the project's successful implementation.
"I hope you have already seen the seriousness of this province with regard to the National Greening Project and Coffee Production initiative in Agusan del Sur. Rest assured, this project will not go to waste," he said.
The meeting included presentations on the project's framework, approved memorandum of agreement, work and financial plan, and implementation strategy before participating agencies and stakeholders signed a pledge of commitment.
Cheryl Taganahan, Enhanced National Greening Program regional coordinator, expressed confidence in the province's commitment to the initiative.
"Looking into the eyes of the people of Agusan del Sur, I see the passion and the burning desire to make this project succeed," Taganahan said.
TMC said the project reflects its continuing commitment to collaborative environmental initiatives by supporting forest rehabilitation, promoting sustainable livelihoods and strengthening partnerships with government and local communities.
