Through the Philippine Geothermal Production Company, Inc. (PGPC), SM continues to preserve marine environments and communities in Tiwi, Albay province, support 14 coastal barangays, and promote local biodiversity.
PGPC's Environmental Conservation for Sustaining Tiwi's Aquatic Resources (ECO-STAR) Program represents a broad effort to protect and enhance Tiwi's coastal and marine environments. The ECO-STAR Program encompasses several critical components, including managing the 4.2 square kilometers of Corangon Marine Sanctuary and rehabilitating beach and mangrove areas across 14 coastal barangays in Tiwi.
The program started with a significant goal of educating local communities to address the harmful effects of illegal fishing practices such as cyanide and dynamite fishing. To support this, the program developed the Watch Station area, which serves as Tiwi's central resource and information center for coastal and fishery education.
The ECO-STAR Program has also made significant strides in community engagement and environmental protection. Since its inception, the program has overseen the planting and nurturing of over 300,000 mangrove and beach tree species, contributing to the restoration of vital coastal ecosystems. Additionally, since 2013, it has facilitated the rescue and release of 327 sea turtles, which is crucial for maintaining the health of marine environments.
It also invests in the younger generation through the Youth Environmental Leaders League (TIWI YELL), which PGPC helped organize. YELL members participate in an annual summer camp that provides training in marine conservation, first aid, and other essential skills, fostering the development of future environmental leaders.
ECO-STAR's efforts have led to notable improvements in local biodiversity. The successful rehabilitation of the Corangon Marine Sanctuary has contributed to the return of sea turtles to Tiwi's shores. This success has prompted PGPC and the Tiwi Local Government Unit (LGU) to create the Sea Turtle Awareness and Rescue (STAR) Center.
The program also organizes fundraising events through the annual fun run to save sea turtles, contributes to the Municipal Tourism Development Plan, engages with the Tiwi Municipal Tourism Council, and other activities like mangrove and beach tree planting, coastal clean-ups, and coral mapping.
Integral to ECO-STAR's approach is supporting the local communities who are stewards of the coast. PGPC's partnership with local organizations has created valuable livelihood opportunities for women in Tiwi. At the Tiwi ASENSO Livelihood Center, more than 40 women produce seaweed-based products, such as noodles and cracklings, using seaweed harvested by their families. This initiative supports their families and provides each participant an average additional income of PHP 3,500 per month, significantly improving their economic stability.
"Our holistic approach to coastal conservation not only focuses on environmental protection but also on improving the livelihoods of local families. By integrating education, community engagement, and sustainable practices, we aim to create lasting benefits for both the environment and the people," PGPC President Napoleon L. Saporsantos, Jr. said.
Looking ahead, the program aims to continue its work towards turning Tiwi into a vibrant Eco-Adventure Marine Park. It has ongoing plans for team-building activities, wildlife conservation, and further livelihood enhancements.
Since 2017, PGPC has also been at the forefront of the Adopt-An-Estero Program, which focuses on revitalizing the Bariis River in Tiwi, Albay. The program aims to restore and sustain the river's freshwater ecosystem through coastal clean-up activities, solid waste management, tree planting, and awareness campaigns.
"This is a testament to our ridge-to-reef philosophy on ecosystem conservation, which recognizes the interconnectedness of land and marine environments, from mountain ridges to coastal reefs. While the Bariis River is crucial to our renewable energy operations, our primary goal is to ensure the health of our ecosystems. Clean rivers contribute to a healthy environment overall, and that's why we are dedicated to their preservation," said Saporsantos.
The once-pollution-prone area now boasts one of the most acceptable river qualities recognized by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)—Environmental Management Bureau (EMB). Furthermore, the local barangay unit has taken ownership of the river's care, inspired by PGPC's initiative. Notably, over 60 4Ps beneficiaries from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) have become active participants in the river's conservation.
PGPC's dedication to environmental stewardship is evident in its comprehensive approach to safeguarding coastal and marine ecosystems. Investing in renewable energy and coastal conservation, the SM Group has set an example of how sustainable practices can benefit communities and the environment.
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