Writ of kalikasan poised against Benguet Corp.

For contamination of rivers 

ITOGON, Benguet – A writ of kalikasan petition against Benguet Corp. is set to be filed for mine tailings that spilled into the river following heavy rains brought by Super Typhoon Lawin.

Residents along the Agno River in Barangays Tinongdan and Dalupirip in this town are considering filing the writ with the  Environmental Management Bureau- Cordillera  which earlier recommended that the mining firm be initially fined P24 million for polluting the rivers of Liang, Ambalanga and Agno.

Some 50,000 metric tons of silt were reportedly released into the rivers from Oct. 27 to Nov. 15. 

EMB-Cordillera said BC also faces three counts of violation of the Clean Water Act.

Noel Ngolob, BC administrator, admitted mine tailings resulted in fish kills in Dalupirip and Tinongdan. 

Froilan Lawilaw, BC manager however said mine tailings had minimal effect.

He added they have not received complaints from residents.