Sunday, June 08, 2008 (Philippines)

Secretary Jesus G. Dureza (left) visits the National Food Authority (NFA) Provincial Office at Sta. Ana Avenue, Davao City to inspect its inventory Friday. (Sun.Star Davao/Rene B. Lumawag) MATI City Mayor Michelle Rabat is leaving the final decision on whether to allow mining in the city or not to the indigenous peoples (IP) who have ancestral domain rights to the vast mineral lands. In an interview at her office Friday, Rabat said they will abide with whatever decision the IPs would come up regarding the controversial Pujada Nickel Mining Project in barangays Macambol and Cabuaya. Arroyo Watch: Sun.Star blog on President Arroyo [full story]