The unveiling of the Agata Mines Nature Farm marks a significant first in the Philippines
Barangay Lawigan’s booth at the Agata Mines Nature Farm launch showcases natural and organic farm produce that the company has supported through its SDMP during its mining operations.
Tubay, Agusan del Norte / November 2024 — What began as a dream now thrives in Caraga – a significant first in the country’s mining industry. TVIRD’s Agata Mining Ventures, Inc. proudly unveiled the Agata Mines Nature Farm, marking a historic milestone as the pioneering agrotourism and ecology hub developed from the company’s Final Mine Rehabilitation and Decommissioning Plan for its former mine site. This groundbreaking development not only sets a precedent for sustainable land use but is also testament that there is life after mining.
The overwhelming support of the community has been a cornerstone of the project’s success. Agata’s years of collaboration with the townsfolk helped transform the area from a responsibly managed mine site to a thriving ecological and agricultural destination. Moreover, the community’s cooperation helped the company to transition the local economy from mining back to agriculture.
The Agata Nickel Laterite Project was operated by TVI Resource Development Philippines Inc. (TVIRD) from 2014 to 2023. During this time, it successfully delivered 382 shipments of nickel DSO to its direct markets in Asia and Oceania, bringing its 9-year production volume to over 20 million wet metric tons (WMT) of nickel laterite ore.
A strong partnership
The unveiling was marked by the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with the Department of Tourism (DOT) and received strong support from various government agencies: the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB), National Commission on Indigenous People (NCIP), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Caraga State University (CSU), Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA).
The event also received the solid endorsement of local government unit executives and Barangay captains of the host municipalities Jabonga, Santiago and Tubay in Agusan del Norte.
“We are humbled by the outpouring of support from our community and partners. Their involvement has been essential to the success of our mining operations as well as the legacy that Agata is building for its beneficiary communities,” said TVIRD Tenement Management and Environmental Compliance Director Jesalyn Guingguing, who concurrently heads Agata’s Final Mine Rehabilitation and Decommissioning Plan.
Mining and environmental stewardship go hand in hand
After years of progressive rehabilitation efforts, the once-industrial site is now an oasis for biodiversity, sustainable agriculture and eco-friendly tourism. With the active participation of the local community, including the children of Agata employees, the farm is evolving into a biodiversity tourism enterprise that showcases the region’s natural beauty, rich cultural heritage and innovative farming techniques.
Local communities staged an agricultural showcase that included fruits, vegetables and marine products like fish and shells during the market booth contest “Tabo-an o Tiangge sa Agata” (Marketplace in Agata). A group of young entrepreneurs who are children of Agata employees also presented Agata Mines Nature Farm souvenirs called Agata Nit Bags. In addition, a groundbreaking ceremony was held for the historical Gazebo, which was once the exploration campsite of TVIRD partner company, MRL Nickel Philippines.
As Agata breathes new life into its former mine site, it likewise marks a new chapter on sustainability in the Philippine mining industry with its host communities – most notably, the indigenous Mamanwa Tribe with whom it shares a common development roadmap.
The farm will not only offer opportunities for agro-education and eco-tourism but will also provide a sustainable livelihood for its residents. Agata’s collaboration with TESDA has facilitated skills development for the community, ensuring they are equipped to take full advantage of the economic benefits this new phase brings.
