Lopez meets lumads over mining concerns

MANILA, Philippines – Environment Secretary Gina Lopez has urged lumad communities in Mindanao to submit their proposed development plan for areas that were affected by mining activities.

Lopez held a dialogue with representatives of lumad tribes at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines in Manila over the weekend.

She said mining operations in Mindanao that violated mining and environmental laws and regulations would be suspended.

“I am one with you in your cause... an investigation and audit of the mining companies you have mentioned is underway,” Lopez said during the dialogue.

She assured lumad tribes that the government would study their proposal and address their concerns at the soonest possible time.

During the dialogue, representatives of lumad communities said open pit mines and tailings ponds have affected their livelihood. 

They cited Sagittarius Mines Inc. in Tampakan, Sultan Kudarat; SR Metals Inc. in Tubay, Agusan del Sur as well as Greenstone Mining and Taganito Mining in Surigao del Norte as among those whose operations have affected their communities.

The lumads urged Lopez to also stop illegal logging near watersheds and militarization  in their communities.