San Fernando City, La Union (PIA) – The Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) in Region 1 is aiming to promote inclusivity and sustainability through a Lakbay Aral (educational tour) for special education students in the Ilocos Region.
The focus of the educational tours is to foster environmental awareness and understanding among students with special needs.
By organizing tours of this kind, MGB is creating opportunities for students to engage with environmental topics in an interactive and accessible manner, helping them gain valuable knowledge and insights that will contribute to their overall education and personal growth.
One of these tours included senior high school students of the San Fernando City Special Education (SPED) Integrated School on Dec. 6, done in partnership with Northern Cement Corporation (NCC).
The tour immersed students around 20 students in cement plant operations and included a visit to NCC’s Arboretum in Sison, Pangasinan, highlighting the company’s commitment to biodiversity and sustainability.
The activity also sought to foster a deeper understanding of the mining industry’s development role, emphasizing responsibility and environmental care.
Through sign language, Justine Rivera, a Grade 10 deaf and mute student, conveyed his heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity to participate
“This experience taught me valuable lessons about mining operations and the vital role of environmental stewardship,” Rivera shared.
He highlighted the importance of tree planting as a cornerstone of environmental restoration and sustainability. Inspired by the visit, Rivera also expressed his aspiration to become a mining engineer and committed to studying diligently to achieve his dream.
Engr. Angelu Tejada of the NCC meanwhile emphasized the significance of educational initiatives like the Lakbay Aral in fostering awareness and appreciation for the mining industry.
“Northern Cement Corporation is committed to responsible mining practices, environmental stewardship, and community engagement. We hope this experience inspires you to consider careers in mining and geology while recognizing the importance of balancing development with environmental care,” Tejada said.
MGB Region 1 Regional Director Carlos Tayag expressed gratitude to the NCC for making the initiative possible, underscoring the importance of providing PWD students with meaningful opportunities to learn and explore different career paths.
“This activity is a step toward empowering PWD students by broadening their horizons and demonstrating that opportunities are within their reach,” Tayag said.
The Lakbay Aral program also encouraged the participants to engage actively during the tour by observing processes, asking questions, and gaining insights into sustainable mining operations, showcasing the collaborative efforts between MGB Region 1 and NCC to educate, inspire, and empower the next generation of industry professionals.
The Lakbay Aral program is part of the MGB Region 1 PWD-SC Committee’s broader efforts to promote inclusivity. In 2023, the committee introduced Project M.I.N.E.D. (Mining Industry Now Employing Differently-Abled), which aims to encourage the mining sector to provide job opportunities for PWDs.
The program has since inspired local companies to explore inclusive hiring practices, creating pathways for PWDs to join the workforce.
Moving forward, the MGB Region 1 PWD-SC Committee plans to continue implementing this initiative across the region, creating more opportunities for inclusivity and empowerment in the education sector.(CCMT/AIHR/PIA Region 1)
