DENR calls for cleanup of disturbed areas at Sibuyan mine
The DENR conducts a site inspection and consultation at the Altai Philippines Mining Corp. mining area in San Fernando, Sibuyan Island, Romblon. The inspection assessed disturbed areas and environmental conditions at the site. —Photo courtesy of Gov. Trina Firmalo-Fabic
CALAPAN CITY, Oriental Mindoro, Philippines — The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has called for urgent remediation of disturbed areas at the mining site of Altai Philippines Mining Corp. (APMC) in San Fernando, Sibuyan Island, Romblon, following a recent inspection and community consultation.
Romblon Gov. Trina Firmalo-Fabic said the DENR-led composite team inspected the site and consulted provincial and municipal officials, barangay leaders, civil society and nongovernment organizations, as well as other stakeholders.
“It is important to listen to different sides and understand the situation of the area, together with the data and studies that have previously been conducted,” Firmalo-Fabic said in a statement.
She expressed hope that the inspection would lead to productive discussions and a deeper understanding of the concerns raised by the different parties.
The Sept. 22 inspection was part of the DENR’s ongoing investigation and validation related to a pending petition seeking the cancellation of APMC’s Mineral Production Sharing Agreement (MPSA) No. 304-2009-IVB, according to antimining group Barikada ng Mamamayan ng Sibuyan.
The team assessed conditions at the site, reviewed the company’s compliance history, and heard views from both supporters and opponents of mining. Its findings will be submitted to DENR Secretary Juan Miguel Cuna for further action.
The inspection identified disturbed areas requiring immediate attention, including excavated portions, siltation ponds, ore stockpiles, and other areas that could contribute to erosion, sediment movement, and runoff, according to the community group.
Validation
Barikada said the observations should still undergo technical documentation and validation by the DENR before final findings are issued.
The group welcomed the recommendation for remediation but stressed that it should not be interpreted as permission for APMC to resume mining operations.
“Remediation must address the damage already done; it must not become a means to resume mining operations,” the group said in a separate statement.
It urged APMC to submit a comprehensive remediation plan for DENR review and approval, with local governments and affected communities involved in monitoring.
On Sept. 25, APMC issued a statement welcoming the inspection and consultation, saying the activities provided an opportunity for dialogue with government officials and local communities.
It said the consultation and inspection allowed various stakeholders to hear different perspectives and discuss information concerning Sibuyan’s geology and the current status of exploration activities.
“For APMC, these activities demonstrate the importance of listening, dialogue, and meaningful engagement with our stakeholders,” the company said.
APMC said it viewed the activities as an opportunity to learn from local communities and strengthen its commitment to open, transparent, and respectful engagement.
The company said its new management is pursuing a new direction focused on completing permits and regulatory requirements, improving environmental and operational standards, and strengthening engagement with government agencies and communities.
APMC said the consultation also allowed stakeholders to discuss information on Sibuyan’s geology and the current status of its exploration activities.
Source: Inquirer