‘Reopening of mines dangerous’

MANILA, Philippines — The government’s move to reopen mine sites in the country at the height of the pandemic is dangerous and will pose more risks to mining communities.

Environment and human rights groups on Monday protested the reopening of 13 cancelled and suspended mines, citing health and safety risks on mining-affected communities and defenders.

Among these are Alyansa Tigil Mina, Sanlakas, Philippine Movement for Climate Justice, Bantay Kita, Akbayan, Philippine Alliance of Human Rights Advocates, IDefend, Lilak, Green Thumb Coalition, and Masbate-based organization Ang Aroroy Ay Alagaan.

The groups emphasized that mining operations endanger the health of local residents in mining communities and that the government’s militaristic approach in addressing the pandemic also emboldened state forces and increased human rights abuses against environmental activists.

They said Environment Secretary Roy Cimatu’s decision to revoke the cancellation and suspension orders of 13 mining companies would worsen these conditions.

Cimatu earlier said some of the mining companies closed or suspended by the late environment secretary Gina Lopez would be allowed to resume operations after their permits were reviewed.

These companies are AAM-Phil Natural Resources Exploration and Development Corp., Krominco Inc., Oriental Synergy Mining, Wellex Mining, Libjo Mining and Claver Mineral Development Corp.

Also included are Carrascal Nickel Corp., Ore Asia Mining and Development Corp., Zambales Diversified Metals Corp., Strong Built Mining Development, Emir Minerals, Berong Nickel, and Mt. Sinai Exploration and Development Corp.

ATM national coordinator Jaybee Garganera said the DENR’s recommendation to reopen the mines should be rejected, as the agency is unwilling to disclose the basis of the decision.

“Mining is part of the problem because it is directly linked to deforestation and climate change, which are both drivers to the evolution of new diseases and pandemics,” he said.

A report from the International Council on Mining and Metals showed that the global mining industry is a significant contributor of energy-related greenhouse gas emissions.

The Philippines is one of the most vulnerable countries in terms of climate-related disasters. It is also the second most dangerous country for environmental defenders.