Surigao Integrated Resources Corporation (SIRC) in partnership with Gawad Kalinga, the Municipality of Claver, and the DENR-Mines and Geosciences Bureau in Region 13 (DENR-MGB 13) will build 45 houses in the remote Sitio Kinalablaban, Claver, Surigao del Norte.

Based on the study conducted by SIRC, the 45 families currently residing at Sitio kinalablaban will be indirectly affected by the upcoming mining project of the company. SIRC is slated to develop and operate a surface mine for lateritic nickel deposits in the Provinces of Surigao del Norte and Surigao del Sur.

Anticipating the impacts on the residents, SIRC forged partnerships with Gawad Kalinga, an non-government organization, the local government of Claver and the DENR-MGB 13, to realize a housing project in the area. The company is committed to transform the remote Sitio Kinalablaban into a bustling community. Aside from the houses, a clinic and a school for their children will be established in the area. Livelihood projects and trainings shall also be afforded to the 45 families.

Groundbreaking activities for the housing project was held last May 29, 2005 at Sitio Kinalablaban, Cagdianao, Surigao del Norte. More than 1,000 people from DENR-MGB, Couples for Christ from various Surigao del Norte Chapters, LGUs of Surigao del Norte and Suirgao del Sur, SIRC management and staff and beneficiaries witnessed the activity.

Prior to the activity a simple mass was held at the site celebrated by Fr. Nic Pinados, Claver Parish Priest of the Diocese of Surigao followed by a short program. The Governor of Surigao del Sur Hon. Vicente Pimentel in his message said he was impressed of the solid support extended by the various sectors of Surigao del Norte to the project of SIRC. He is hoping that the same camaraderie will be forged in his Province.

For the first time, Sitio Kinalablaban, a remote and quiet place between Surigao del Norte and Surigao del Sur was in festive mood and filled with people. Soon, this will be a home for 45 families whose settlement shall showcase a holistic development approach of Corporate Social Responsibility in mining within the context of multi-sectoral convergence. (MGB Caraga)

June 2, 2005