Koronadal City (20 November) -- Sagittarius Mines, Inc. (SMI) has been awarded the Presidential Mining Industry Environmental Award (PMIEA) by the Philippine Mine Safety and Environment Association (PMSEA) at the 56th Annual National Mine Safety and Environment Conference held in Baguio City on 14 November.

SMI General Manager Mark Williams said that the PMIEA recognizes excellence in the mining sector relating to the environment, safety and health management, as well as community development.

"We are honored to receive this award. This confirms our continuing commitment to employ the best available technologies and practices in safety, environment, community development, and stakeholder engagement," said SMI General Manager Mark Williams.

SMI had an overall rating of 98%. SMI received a perfect score for its Social Development and Management Program (SDMP), as did the Information, Education, Communication (IEC) program. Environmental Management also scored highly with 39% out of 40%, while the Safety and Health program received 19% out of the allocated 20% weighting.

This is the third time for the company to be a PMIEA recipient. In 2004 and 2006, the PMIEA selection committee also recognized SMI's performance in the conduct of its mineral exploration activities.

"While we ensure compliance with the legislative requirements, we also hold fast to the stringent expectation of our major shareholder, Xstrata, and the communities in which we operate, in all aspects of our operation," said Mr. Williams.

"SMI is committed to advancing the Tampakan project in line with leading environmental and industry best practices and in partnership with our stakeholders."