BENGUET Governor Crecensio Pacalso said they have not received notice of the suspension and closure order from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources for the mining companies within the province.
Pacalso said, "Awan py maiggeman tayo nga papel, ngem ammo tayon ti consequence na dyta. The dislocation of more or less 2,000 families, even income generating businesses supporting the mining company outside the area."
"Up to now, we still do not understand what kind of suspension was issued, so, we still cannot assume the kind of help we can offer." He added.
Pacalso assured the province will find available assistance within the government for them.
Provincial Board Committee Chair on Mining Board Member Apolinario Camsol said that all sectors concerned on mining will be greatly affected with the suspension order.
"Economic dislocation will be the probable effect of that, karu nu mai-close ket dyay income. Shares ti municipalities, awan to metten. Kasanu to ti Mankayan, Tuba or Itogon. Not only the municipalities. Even the province being a beneficiary of the national wealth tax." Camsol emphasized.
"And, at the same time, the social development projects. In case of Lepanto, they have millions funded projects. How about the scholarship for students" said Camsol reiterating their identified concerns on mining closures.
Camsol said if they will be updated of the type of suspension the DENR has issued, they might be pushed to make legislative action requesting Lopez for reconsideration on the decision to suspend and close mines in the province.
Camsol said a meeting with the administration of Lepanto Mines will be scheduled to talk about assistance they might need.
"The province should be there to help these mines."