SAN MIGUEL Corp. (SMC) has launched a biodiversity offset site in Malolos City, Bulacan as part of the company’s efforts to help address flooding in the area.
The conglomerate said in a statement that the biodiversity offset site in Barangay Pamarawan, called Saribuhay sa Dampalit project, was launched via its unit San Miguel Aerocity, Inc. (SMAI).
It claimed that the biodiversity offset site is the first in the country and covers 40 hectares with plans for expansion to 800 hectares in strategic areas.
SMC’s project, which adheres to International Finance Corp. environment and social standards, provides a feeding ground for migratory birds. The project also generated employment and raised awareness on the importance of preserving migratory shorebirds.
According to SMC, the initiative aims to balance development efforts with environmental preservation, support local livelihoods, and address flooding issues in Bulacan’s flood-prone areas.
It added that the project is among the company’s “nature-based solutions” to building the New Manila International Airport project in Bulacan.
“By involving local residents in our efforts, we’re not just building infrastructure, we are cultivating a community that values and actively contributes to environmental preservation,” SMAI Project Director Cecile L. Ang said.
SMC President and chief executive officer Ramon S. Ang said the project could potentially turn into a location for bird-watching, which could boost tourism and generate more jobs.
“The Saribuhay sa Dampalit project is an integrative approach to development that respects and enhances the natural environment alongside our infrastructure objectives. We firmly believe that progress and nature can co-exist, benefiting both the ecosystem and the local community,” he said. — Revin Mikhael D. Ochave
