Itogon seeks inclusion of b’gay in dev’t plan

By Susan C. Aro

ITOGON, Benguet -- Itogon town officials are seeking the institutionalization of the inclusion of an affected barangay in the Social Development Management Program (SDMP) of the Philex Mining Corp.

Itogon officials recently passed Resolution 034 requesting the company to institutionalize inclusion of Barangay Dalupirip in its SDMP and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).

The SDMP is guided by the company’s creed or CSR in consultation and in partnership with the host and neighboring communities.

It entails promotion and inclusion of projects, programs and activities in enhancing the development of host and neighboring communities of the mining company.

Barangay Ampucao is already a recipient of various projects, programs and activities funded under the company’s SDMP.

Itogon officials claimed it is but proper to include  Dalupirip in the company’s SDMP after the leakage issue in Dam 3 of Philex Mines affecting the said barangay.

The accumulation of rainwater brought about by heavy and continuous rains during typhoons Ferdie and Gener resulted to tailings leakage in Padcal mining operations of Philex Mines discharging volumes of sediments.

The leakage is affecting the environment and livelihood including cultural displacement of barangay Dalupirip, according to local officials.

Copies of the resolution were forwarded to the Mines and Geosciences Bureau of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – CAR and barangay Dalupirip for information and appropriate action.