Mine-affected communities mine their experiences at opposing large-scale mining

Mine-affected communities mine their experiences at opposing large-scale mining

By ALMA B. SINUMLAG
NORTHERN DISPATCH
BAGUED, Abra – “I am very glad to see many people here. It means that we are not the only ones fighting against corporate mining.” This is how Dominga Gaspar, member of the Barangay Council of Gambang, Bakun, Benguet, started her testimony at the Benguet, Abra, Mt. Province, Ilocos Sur (BAMPIS) Mining Summit held here last November 18.

Gaspar recalled how their community has staunchly opposed mining exploration starting from when the first mining application into their area was submitted. Community members said they held numerous activities, wrote opposition papers, manifestations and many more just to register their rejection of any large-scale mining activities in their area.

The village of Gambang hosted the Cordillera Day in 2009 where Gabriela Womens Partylist (GWP) Representative Luzviminda Ilagan attended and witnessed their strong opposition to the Exploration Application of RoyalCo Philippines Inc., said Gaspar as example.

She said they also trooped to the House of Representatives in Quezon City to be heard by Congressmen in the region in 2010. Also, they hosted the On-site Congressional Inquiry of the National Cultural Communities specifically on the violations to the Indigenous Peoples Rights by the RoyalCo, most especially with regard to the subdivision of their village into various ‘phases.’ They submitted their manifestations to concerned offices and government agencies..... MORE

Source:  Bulatlat.com

URL: http://bulatlat.com/main/2011/12/01/mine-affected-communities-mine-their-experiences-at-opposing-large-scale-mining/