First posted 02:53am (Mla time) Aug 10, 2006 Inquirer http://specials.inq7.net/theenvironmentreport/index.php?ver=1&index=1&story_id=14404Editor's
Note: Published on Page A12 of the August 10, 2006 issue of the Philippine Daily Inquirer
THIS has reference to the news item titled "Permits absent in Narra mining." (Inquirer, 7/26/06) According to the report, Platinum Group Metals Corp. (PGMC) is operating in Narra, Palawan, without a permit. On the other hand, Sara Marie Mining Inc. (SMMI) continues to drill in the same area despite an earlier Cease and Desist Order (CDO) from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Mines and Geosciences Bureau (DENR-MGB).
The report further implied that the DENR has not been fair in enforcing the law against mining firms, particularly in the case of PGMC, which was accused by the Kilusang Laban sa Mina sa Narra of having ties with Environment Secretary Angelo T. Reyes. Our records show that our actions on these companies were based on existing rules and regulations and were not influenced by anyone.
Our regional office issued a CDO against SMMI last July 16, 2006 because it was conducting exploration activities without an Exploration Permit. The CDO is still in effect up to this day.
PGMC, on the other hand, is operating by virtue of the Small-Scale Mining Permit issued by the provincial governor of Palawan. It is thus unfair to drag the name of Secretary Reyes into the controversy involving a permit issued by the local government.
HORACIO C. RAMOS, director, Mines and Geosciences Bureau, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, North Avenue, Diliman, Quezon City
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