In a three-page petition signed by 64 residents of Barangay Camp 3, Tuba, Benguet, dated July 19 this year.
They called on various government agencies to address their concerns about safety risks allegedly caused by the drilling activity and exploration of Philex Mining Corporation in their area.
Their fears stem from cracks discovered on their mountains, which they believe resulted from mining operations.
It was also stated that although their exploration permit had expired, the company continued its operations.
The petition was received by NCIP Cordillera, Mines and Geosciences Bureau Cordillera, the offices of Benguet Governor Melchor Diclas and Tuba Mayor Clarita Sal-ongan, the Sangguniang Bayan, and other agencies.
According to Kagawad Estella Montino, Committee on Lands – Barangay Camp 3, “No one has formally approached us. Someone from the mayor’s office asked about the complaints, but that’s all. I hope the residents’ concerns will be addressed, especially since the problems are happening in their barangay.”
On October 10, 2024, the residents sent a letter to Philex Mining Corporation about their continued operations, even though the barangay had not approved or issued a new permit for exploration activities in Sitio Alapang.
They also stated that since the area is part of ancestral domain, community approval is required before any operations.
Philex Mining Corporation received the letter on October 16, 2024, while the MGB-CAR received it on October 29, 2024.
“When they started, we weren’t aware. It was only the residents who informed us, asking if they had permission. They didn’t inform us, so we didn’t know,” Montino mentioned.
“As of now, the barangay council of Camp 3 has not released any permit or endorsement for Philex Mines’ drilling operations,” Mary Ann Obra Andrada, Secretary of Barangay Camp 3, stated.
According to Engr. Luis Sarmiento, president of the Philippine Mine Safety and Environment Association, ensuring community safety is one of the priorities of mining companies in the country.
“Mining companies are mandated to implement mitigation measures and conduct geohazard mapping of their tenements granted by the government to ensure the safety of communities near their operations. If relocation is necessary, they must consult the community,” Engr. Luis Sarmiento, President of the PMSEA, clarified.
The news team continues to reach out to MGB-CAR and DENR Cordillera for comments on the complaint.
Efforts to get a response from Philex Mining Corporation have also been unsuccessful.
**RHEN DE GUZMAN
