http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Nation&p=49&type=2&sec=28&aid=20070830109
By KATHERINE ADRANEDA
The Philippine Star
Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Lito Atienza suspended Thursday the transport of the equipment of an Australian-owned mining company in Kasibu, Nueva Vizcaya amid opposition from tribal folk.
In a verbal order, Atienza barred the transport of drilling tools for Oxiana’s mining exploration in Kasibu town to prevent further hostilities between the anti-mining villagers and the company.
Atienza said he talked to Oxiana officials early Thursday and issued a “formal call” for a status quo or moratorium on the firm’s mining exploration.
“We have to move fast, so we had to call them,” the newly installed DENR chief said. “I told them ‘Let’s not rush into things… let’s talk it out first.’”
Atienza said the moratorium on the transport of Oxiana’s equipment could not be considered as indefinite, but a suspension “until we have ironed out things.”
“To develop an industry that is meant to benefit all... the local government unit and community members should always be part of the whole process,” he said.
Earlier, a local court issued an injunction against the anti-mining villagers, allowing the transport of Oxiana’s equipment to eastern parts of mountainous Kasibu town.
But despite the court injunction, the locals have stood their ground. With Charlie Lagasca
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