DENR, Cebu firm lead rehab of mining sites

CEBU CITY – The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in Central Visayas assured the public that the mining industry in Cebu is committed to rehabilitate mined-out areas through tree planting and other related activities.

Solid Earth Development Corporation (SEDC), a mining company in Cebu, through its president, Atty. Dennis Tenefrancia said the firm has allocated a budget for activities to protect the en- vironment, develop the community and the economy.

Tenefrancia added SEDC is one of the most compliant mining companies that adheres to RA 7942 or the Philippine Mining Act of 1995.

Green mine area He said a 7-hectare mined- out area in Barangay Magsico, San Fernando has been rehabilitated through tree planting initiatives and was named the St. Augustine Eco-pilgrimage Park.

It was opened to the public on March 21, 2018.

“Hard work, sacrifices, commitment to excellence and perseverance to achieve our goal with long-term commitment of environment interactions and social concerns. We want to show the contribution of the mining company to the community,” Tenefrancia said Fruit trees During the Mine Tour and Responsible Mining Forum of SEDC last Friday, in partnership with the DENR, around 180 jackfruit and 20 guyabano or Custard apple seedlings were planted at the eco-park.

Officials from several government agencies and members of the media took part in the activity.

In harmony with nature DENR-Mines and Geosciences Bureau – Central Visayas chief Armando Malicse stressed that business and economic endeavors must be pursued in harmony with nature and society and it is SEDC’s corporate responsibility to nurture mining areas.