Sabado, Enero 14, 2012

Plea of Cagayanos on Irresponsible Mining

Cagayan is one of the places here in the Philippines which are rich in minerals and natural resources like black sand, iron ore and manganese. Together with other minerals found in Cagayan, these natural resources attract many mining companies to explore what Cagayan has. Situations got even worse when these companies abuse the mining sites and thus this led to exploitation of natural resources. With that, ever wonder who’s to blame? Who are deeply affected?

Because of the situation Cagayan is into, many believed that part of the blame must be put on the provincial and local government units. Why? It is because they allow mining companies to operate in exchange of short term benefits. They are being selfish on making such decisions not even taking into consideration or priority those who are greatly affected and already suffering because of the disastrous effects of those mining activities. And who are these people who are experiencing so much suffering? They are no other than the poor people. Imagine, they are already in that state of living and yet they are still taken for granted. The great impact is really on the poor ones. Specifically, some have experience displacement from their lands, others have lost their sources of livelihood and still others have been physically threatened and maltreated because of their opposition to mining in their localities.

There are many unions that hold responsible of taking care of the mining sites which promotes responsible mining. Even pastoral communities have a plea. From a pastoral letter on mining written and addressed on the 23rd of October year 2011, pastors from Tuguegarao have laid down some points. They are aware of the current situation of their place that’s why they are in action. According to them, no one must be afraid of appealing their concerns to government agencies especially when they know that such mining companies plunder the natural resources. One more thing, each and every one must be motivated enough to be on guard not only against mining but also against all forms of destructive activities like logging, illegal fishing, and bad farming practices that destroy and endanger our natural environment.

Posted by: Ann Lorraine C. Mendoza

Reference: http://www.nordis.net/?p=10831

1 komento:

  1. in the first place, there is no such thing as a "Responsible Mining". once you mine, you already opted for destruction. as a mountaineer and an Environmental Engineer, you are deeply involved in this issue. choose wisely. :) goodluck! ~Libert Ini

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