2 mine firms work with DENR to save Alcoy forests, birds

CEBU, Philippines – Two mining corporations have entered into agreement with the Mines and Geosciences Bureau of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources to help conserve forests in Alcoy town.

Signing the MOA are the Philippine Mining Service Corporation and Dolomite Mining Corporation. They will work with DENR and the local government of Alcoy for a reforestation and regeneration project of a 65-hectare timberland area in the town.

The forests of Alcoy are among the few places in Cebu where the famous Black Shama or “Siloy” can be found.

The black Shama is endemic in Cebu and other than Alcoy, can only be found in the protected landscapes of central Cebu, Argao and shrublands of barangay Casili in Consolacion.

Prior to the MOA, a co-management agreement was signed by DENR, PMSC and the local government Alcoy in 2004 to protect and develop 1,729 hectares of forest lands.

The agreement was entered into to help manage the remaining forest lands in Alcoy and in enlarging the vegetative cover of plantations and assisted natural regenerations.

Generoso Gonzaga Jr., resident manager of PMSC-Alcoy Dolomite Mine said specific budgets for the project will be identified in three months. PMSC and DMC have reportedly already spent close to P500,000 since 2006.

The two companies will also draft an Area Management Plan with the Barangay Forest Management Team of Alcoy.

MGB Regional Director Roger de Dios said they are grateful of the two companies since through them, “materialization of the project was made more possible.” — AJ A. de la Torre/JMO (THE FREEMAN)