The Mines and Geosciences Bureau Regional Office No. VII (MGB 7) celebrated the 2025 National Women’s Month 2025 with the exhibit “Produkto sa mga Kababayen-an sa Mina,” held from March 24 to 26, 2025. Organized by the Mine Safety, Environment, and Social Development Division (MSESDD), the event showcased the success of women-led livelihood initiatives in mining communities.

Apo Land and Quarry Corporation (ALQC) and Carmen Copper Corporation (CCC) actively participated by sending women entrepreneurs who are beneficiaries of their Social Development and Management Program (SDMP). The exhibit featured an assortment of locally produced goods, including Moringa Powdered Juice, Cold Calamansi & Lemongrass Juice, Peanut Butter, Pure Honey, and Cassava Balls from ALQC. Meanwhile, CCC showcased fresh farm produce such as eggs, spring onions, green chili, and macopa grown within its area, along with traditional delicacies like ginataang puso ng saging and kamoteng kahoy with latik, as well as household products such as detergent powder, fabric conditioner, and dishwashing liquid.

The SDMP is a community development initiative mandated for mining companies to improve the quality of life in host and neighboring communities. Through livelihood programs, infrastructure projects, health services, and educational support, it ensures that mining operations contribute to sustainable and inclusive growth.

The event aligned with this year’s theme, “Babae sa Lahat ng Sektor, Aangat ang Bukas sa Bagong Pilipinas,” reinforcing the vital role of women in economic development.

MGB 7 thanked the participating companies for their support in celebrating National Women’s Month. The success of the event stands as a testament to the agency’s ongoing efforts to promote gender equality and support the economic empowerment of women in the mining industry. (MGB7/IO)