Holcim Mindanao plants recognized for environmental stewardship

Holcim Lugait Environment Officer Michelle Trazona receives the plaque of appreciation from DENR Undersecretary for Solid Waste Management and Local Government Unit Concerns Benny Antiporda during the EMB Region 10 Summit.

Leading cement maker Holcim Philippines, Inc. plants in Mindanao were recently recognized by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and its Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) for promoting ecological stewardship among the youth and strong adherence to environmental regulations.

The DENR recognized Holcim’s plant in Lugait, Misamis Oriental for its “ardent partnership and service to the 66th Environmental Youth Camp, which has a positive input towards youth participation in environmental protection and enhancement” during the EMB Region 10 Summit at Cagayan De Oro City last Oct. 17.

Holcim Lugait is the first industrial operation in Region 10 to organize an environmental youth camp. Launched in 2003, the activity is part of Holcim’s efforts to strengthen engagement with its communities by teaching the youth the value of environmental conservation.

Also on Oct. 17, Holcim Davao hosted personnel from EMB Visayas and Mindanao led by Region 11 Director Sophie Manuel after the plant was recommended by local authorities for its adherence to environmental regulations.

Holcim Davao presented its pollution control programs and environmental initiatives, including its Geocycle operations and co-processing technology to highlight its sustainability commitment and contribution to waste management. The EMB officials were also given a tour of the Davao plant.

Director Manuel thanked the plant for hosting the delegation and asked Holcim Philippines to continue working with the government in protecting the environment.

Holcim Davao Plant Manager Xavier Kennedy expressed his commitment to continuous operational improvement and support to regulators and the community in caring for the environment and creating shared value.

Director Manuel also participated in the capacity building workshop for the plant’s new multi-partite monitoring team members and received feedback from the different barangays on how the EMB can support each barangay’s programs on environmental management and protection particularly on solid waste management.