The Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) Regional Office No. XIII took part in the turnover ceremony of the newly constructed Bagakay Mangrove Tourism Trail(Phase II) and Aquaculture Projects on April 1, 2021 in Barangay Bagakay, Claver, Surigao del Norte.
The Mangrove Tourism Trail Project is funded under the Social Development and Management Program (SDMP) while the Aquaculture Project is under the Food Security Program through the realigned SDMP and Environmental Protection and Enhancement Program COVID-19 response plan of the Platinum Group Metals Corporation (PGMC). The projects are managed by the Bagakay River United Tourism Organization (BARUTO) which is a people’s organization comprising 21 member-beneficiaries organized by the PGMC Community Relations Office. BARUTO aims to generate extra income for the organization and to address food insufficiency amidst the pandemic.
With the project cost of P1 Million, the phase 3 of the project worth another P1 Million will commence this year in which a 360-degree viewing tower will be constructed at the heart of the mangrove forest.
As products of consultations and partnerships with the barangay local government unit of Bagakay, sectoral leaders and the local government unit of Claver, the projects were supported and endorsed by members of the Representatives of the Host and Neighboring Communities (RHNC) for approval of the MGB Regional Office No. XIII.
Local entrepreneurs are now engaged in business opportunities that the projects have ushered in. At present, a number of establishments, amenities and activities are available and managed by various entrepreneurs:
- Bagakay Lagoon (a restobar that serves seafoods and Filipino dishes),
- floating cottages,
- jet-skiing and kayaking facilities,
- fishing, and
- sightseeing.
The event was attended by MGB Caraga Regional Director, Engr. Glenn Marcelo C. Noble; Municipal Mayor of Claver, Hon. Georgia D. Gokiangkee; DENR-CENR Officer Joseph Leo O. Oconer; Barangay Captain of Bagakay, Hon. Noel Opusa; barangay officials; BARUTO member-beneficiaries; PGMC Community Relations Manager, Mr. Alex Arabis, and PGMC Staff.
