Davide: Mining firm assures laws are observed in Alegria

CEBU, Philippines — The Chinese company operating the oil mine in Alegria town has promised to Cebu Governor Hilario Davide III that it is complying with all the laws in the country, especially on the protection of environment.

Davide said that the officials of China International Mining Petroleum (CIMP), which operates the oilfield project in Barangay Montpeller, visited him three weeks ago to explain about the project and promised to always comply with the laws.

“Sige na sila konsulta sa ilang mga experts pud kabahin aning impact sa environment, they assured me that they will comply with all the requirements sa atong mga national laws” Davide said.

Davide made the statement after environmental groups threatened to take legal actions if the oil mining operations will affect the environment, especially the protected Tañon Strait.

According to the governor, the Department of Energy, Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), and the local government of Alegria are always monitoring the drilling operations.

"Kanunay ang reporting and monitoring, i-ensure lang gyud nga protected ang environment, ang Tañon Strait," Davide said.

Alegria Mayor Verna Magallon earlier promised to form a committee with DOE and DENR that will monitor the mining operation.

The Alegria oilfield, which was declared by DOE as commercially viable, is expected to give opportunities and development not only in Barangay Montpeller, Alegria but also in the entire Cebu province. It is expected to give additional revenue to Alegria and the province.

Alegria, a fourth class municipality, is expected to get 18 percent share of the revenue while the host barangay Montpeller will have 14 percent, and Cebu provincial government will have eight percent.

"Naka hisgot man gud ang Presidente nga P82 million  ang projected income man tingale monthly... If the provincial government will get 8 percent, dako kaayo na," Davide said.

Davide said the mining operation will really contribute to the progress of Alegria.

"We are hopeful nga kaning project sa Alegria would succeed kay the prospects are bright. Kay naa man nakit-an nila nga komersyo ba, ang potential," Davide said.

Magallon said she will use the town’s share from the oil mining operation in the delivery of basic services like free medicines, water system, and other projects that will benefit the public. —/FPL (FREEMAN)