San Miguel Aerocity, Inc. (SMAI), a subsidiary of San Miguel Corporation (SMC), has inaugurated its Saribuhay sa Dampalit project in Barangay Pamarawan, Malolos, Bulacan.
This pioneering initiative marks the launch of the Philippines’ first Biodiversity Offset Program (BOP) — part of the company’s nature-based solutions to building its New Manila International Airport project (NMAI) in Bulacan. It aims to balance development efforts with environmental preservation, support local livelihoods and address flooding issues in Bulacan’s flood-prone areas.
The pilot BOP site in Pamarawan covers 40 hectares with plans to expand to 800 hectares of offset sites across various areas.
The launch event was attended by Department of Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga, Undersecretary Juan Miguel Cuna, Undersecretary Augusto dela Pena, Undersecretary Ignatius Rodriguez, Dutch Ambassador Marielle Geraedts, and representatives from SMAI.
Adhering to the International Finance Corporation (IFC) environment and social standards, the project has provided a rich feeding ground to the visiting migratory birds which has been in record number this time. Proof that the Offset Site constructed by SMAI has successfully provided sufficient food for the shorebirds.
Secretary Yulo-Loyzaga noted that this was the first and the largest scale biodiversity offset project in the country. She highlighted the importance of embracing the mitigation hierarchy for net positive infrastructure development, reiterating its importance in building inclusive and resilient communities while protecting biodiversity for future generations.
SMAI’s efforts include a range of scientifically grounded measures to ensure the newly created habitats meet the specific needs of the wildlife they aim to protect. More importantly, the BOP project has engaged local residents affected by the NMIA project, providing employment and raising awareness about the importance of preserving migratory shorebirds.
Alejandra Libao, relocated from the airport project site and currently serving as team leader in the offset site, shared how the program has transformed their outlook in life.
Ang is optimistic that the project will extend beyond wildlife protection, potentially turning the area into a prime location for bird-watching, boosting tourism, and creating even more opportunities for local communities.
