Governor lauds mining firms’ safety programs

By Marionne Marie G. Molintas-Ruiz

MANKAYAN, Benguet -- Mining firm Far Southeast Gold Resources Incorporated (FSGRI) conducted its first Safety Day program last August 8, stressing its commitment to having  a safe workplace not only for its employees but also for the community and the environment.

               

Mayor Materno Luspian, councilor Jules Tanglib graced the event with Lepanto Consolidated Mining Company’s Executive Vice President Augusto Villaluna and Brett Mattison, Country Manager of Gold Fields Philippines.

               

FSGRI is a subsidiary of LCMC and Gold Fields, a South Africa based mining firm.

               

The Safety Day Program is the offshoot of the number one corporate value of Gold Fields and is in line with its company motto; “If we cannot mine safely, we will not mine, hence, the special attention to this program.”

               

Benguet Gov. Nestor Fongwan was invited to be the keynote speaker however, the provincial executive sent his apologies as he was with the rescue team in Itogon to monitor the rescue operation being conducted. He was represented by his Executive Assistant, Mr. ApolinarioBagano.

               

In his speech, the governor although expressed his full support for the company’s commitment to “safety first” prior to production and profit.

               

Bagano also mentioned that the governor had been monitoring the activities of each mining firm in the province.

               

He said, “The governor is thankful that FSGRI and Lepanto are taking steps to involve the Province and the Mankayan LGU’s in their safety programs as.”

               

The safety program which lasted a day included, break-out sessions for employees that included discussions on the following: Risk Assessment and Analysis, Water Safety, First Aid and Fire Drill.

               

Iaian Petrie, Site Safety Manager of FSGRI emphasized the need for each employee to be safety conscious and always be aware of possible dangers or hazards which may affect not only himself but to his or her other co-workers but more importantly for those possible dangers and hazards to be addressed.

               

Aside from the daily routine of undergoing Alcoblow Test, employees are also taught how to manage safety awareness that would benefit their own family and to their host community.