TVI Resource Development Philippines Inc. (TVIRD) renewed its commitment to formative education with the recent turnover of 1,800 armchairs and school supplies to 37 public schools in Bayog, Zamboanga del Sur.
The donation, made through its Balabag Gold-Silver Project, was carried out in partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources Region IX (DENR IX), the Department of Education (DepEd), and the Villar SIPAG Foundation.
The initiative, dubbed “From Cut Trees to School Chairs,” was implemented under TVIRD’s Social Development and Management Program (SDMP), which benefits schools and communities across Bayog. It aims to create a more conducive and inclusive learning environment for local students.
The handover ceremonies were attended by school principals and teachers, led by TVIRD Community Relations Superintendent Meriam Embate, together with Marivic Vargas of DENR Region IX and DepEd Zamboanga del Sur Provincial Schools District Supervisor Bim Estano.
“This contribution of school chairs and supplies reflects TVIRD’s commitment to education under its SDMP. It is a testament that mining is not just about extraction, but a catalyst for lasting change and sustainability,” said TVIRD community relations superintendent Meriam Embate.
Under the program, trees covered by the company’s special tree cutting and earth-balling permit (STCEP) were converted into durable school furniture.
The project also forms part of TVIRD’s continuing investment in education, which has supported more than 8,500 scholars across 67 partner schools and universities over the years.
The recent turnover builds on the company’s long-standing tradition of supporting Brigada Eskwela, where it provides materials and volunteer manpower to help repair classrooms and improve learning spaces.
