|
Monday, January 16, 2006
Arroyo orders delay of mining operations: priest
CRITICS of mining activities in Central Mindanao scored a victory after President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo ordered Environment Secretary Michael Defensor to work in delaying mining operations in the region, a priest said.
The President reportedly issued the order to Defensor in the presence of Bishop Dinualdo Gutierrez of the Diocese of Marbel and Fr. Romeo Catedral, director of the diocesan Social Action Center, during a 20-minute closed door meeting at the St. Michael's Parish Thursday last week.
It was not clear what was the real reason behind the order.
Arroyo is pushing for the revitalization of the country's moribund mining industry following the December 2004 Supreme Court ruling that the 1995 Mining Act is constitutional.
Fr. Catedral said after they presented the possible adverse affect of mining activities to the environment and livelihood of farmers and fishermen due to impending operations of Sagittarius Mines Inc, Arroyo reportedly called Defensor.
"Okay Mike, just delay the project," Fr. Catedral quoted the President as saying.
Defensor, the priest said, reportedly replied, "Okay Ma'am, we will delay."
But in the absence of a written order, Fr. Catedral said Arroyo's verbal order is yet to be seen.
"You know, they are politicians. But we will continue anyway to staunchly oppose mining operations in the area whatever will be the outcome of our discussions with the President and the environment secretary. It could have been meaningful if she ordered a moratorium, say for 25 years, instead of just delaying [the mining projects]," Fr. Catedral said.
It was not also clear how long the delay would be and whether it would cover all existing financial and technical assistant agreements and mineral production sharing agreements.
"Although the President ordered a delay against mining in the region, it was not clear whether it will be for Sagittarius alone or on the approval of the mineral production sharing agreements," Fr. Catedral said.
Defensor, he said, informed Arroyo that Sagittarius Mines has been granted a financial and technical assistant agreement, which is a binding contract with the National Government.
In a related development, Sagittarius Mines project coordinator Rolando Doria expressed optimism the government would honor its obligation to the company.
Doria said all local government units covered by their contract have reaffirmed support to the mining exploration.
SMI mining exploration activities cover three towns in three provinces in Soccsksargen Region.
(January 16, 2006 issue)
Write letter to the editor. Click here.
Join the Sun.Star message board. Click here. |
|
[return to top]
[home]
[network page]
|
LOCAL NEWS
BUSINESS
OPINION
SPORTS
LIFESTYLE
FEATURE
|
