Canadian envoy pledges support for responsible mining
TOUR OF MANGROVE REFORESTATION PROJECT. Canadian Ambassador to the Philippines David Hartman (standing at the center) is flanked by government and Filminera officials during a visit to the Masbate mangrove reforestation project. PHOTO FROM FILMINERA
Canadian Ambassador to the Philippines David Hartman has pledged his country’s support for economic growth and community empowerment through responsible and sustainable mining in the Philippines, particularly through partners running mining operations in Masbate province.
Hartman, with Canadian embassy senior trade commissioner Guy Baileau, visited the site of operations of Masbate Gold Project (MGP) in Aroroy town.
The Canadian officials visited MGP’s mangrove reforestation sites along with officials of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and Department of Trade and Industry.
Filminera Resources Corporation (Filminera) and PhilGold Processing & Refining Corp. (PhilGold) operate MGP.
Canada-based B2Gold has minority interest in Filminera.
Phil Gold, which runs the gold processing plant, is wholly-owned by the same Canadian firm.
The mangrove reforestation project is being maintained by Filminera and Phil Gold with the help of coastal barangays in Aroroy.
To date 3.22 million mangrove seedlinhs had been planted with a survival rate of 90 percent in 2,658 hectares of coastal areas surrounding the mine site.
Hartman cited the value of “sustainable partnerships in the extractive industries,” not only for economic prosperity, but for “ensuring responsible stewardship of resources for the benefit of present and future generations.”
“This is precisely what the Masbate Gold Project is all about,” the Canadian chief diplomat said.
“Canada remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering these partnerships, driving economic growth, and empowering communities in Masbate and across the Philippines,” Hartman said.
Environment Undersecretary Carlos Primo David, who was with the Canadian officials during the visit, commended the reforestation efforts.
B2Gold is a low-cost international senior gold producer based in Vancouver. It operates mine sites in other countries — including Namibia and Mali and is constructing a new mine in northern Canada.
Among the mangrove species planted in the reforestation site are those listed as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.
Hartman also visited the Automated Mist Clonal Nursery, a project that plays a significant role in the two firms’ reforestation efforts.
It provides access to community residents who avail themselves of the seedlings for their own businesses, or just to beautify their backyards.
The 2,586 sqm forest and fruit tree nursery can accommodate more than 75,000 seedlings.
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