Editorial

Responsible mining and tragedies

There is need for a clearer definition of the government’s policy on mining following the tragic mine accident at Goldfield, Antamok, Itogon, Benguet wherein six miners died, nine others were rescued alive while one is still missing after they were trapped inside a mine tunnel more than nine days without food.

Call it reactive, but better late than never. The Cordillera Regional Development Council, following the tragedy, has requested the Mines and Geosciences Bureau to come out with a clear definition of its policy on “responsible mining” to ensure better understanding of its programs and projects. The region’s policy-making body also requested the MGB to present a comprehensive report on its activities related to responsible mining for monitoring.

The Cordillera is a rich source of minerals but bad experiences of host communities relative to large-scale mining operations are now major hindrances of entry of mining companies in mineral-rich areas. Among these are uncompensated claims, destruction of forests and watershed areas, depletion of sources of water, existence of subsidence areas and unfulfilled promises to the people living in affected areas.

According to the RDC, the implementation of responsible mining would prevent disasters in mining communities which would result in loss of lives and damage to properties in the future. The body said responsible mining should care for the environment of surrounding communities since it would be a disaster when it will be nature which will make its disastrous presence felt like during typhoons.

The practice of responsible mining, the RDC said, will also be mindful of outcome of mined out areas since mining companies will be mandated to prepare a comprehensive mine rehabilitation plan after their operations so such areas could be rendered useful for the economic activities of the people in the area.

The Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines earlier supported the implementation of the government’s policy on responsible mining but cited urgent need to come out with detailed aspect of the programs and projects for better appreciation of the concerned sectors. Proper agencies like the MGB could now do the job of informing the people on its programs to deter accidents like the Itogon tragedy.


Countdown for ‘surfacing’ of James Balao now 18 days

It has been exactly 18 days since James Balao, a member of the Cordillera People’s Alliance has been abducted allegedly by elements of the Military Security Unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

Up to now, it is a wonder why the AFP has not yet issued a statement on Balao’s disappearance despite media reports. This, considering that even the international community like Amnesty International and the United Nations have taken notice of the matter and urged the Philippine government to make an impartial investigation on the matter and “surface” him.

Up to now, efforts are being made by his family and concerned sectors to locate him but without the help of people who have conscience in the AFP, the police or any concerned government office or private individuals, it would be hard to find him.

Those who have knowledge about his disappearance are urged to report Balao’s whereabouts to the CPA (09184698849), the Cordillera Human Rights Alliance (09178836594) or his family at 09175069404.