MANILA, Philippines- Pinabulaanan ng Altai Philippines Mining Corporation (APMC) nitong Linggo na iligal ang operasyon nito sa Sibuyan Island sa Romblon, at sinabing mayroon itong permits para maggalugad at kumuha ng ore samples mula sa Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).
Sinabi ng APMC na mayroon itong balidong Mineral Production Sharing Agreement (MPSA). Sinabi rin ng kompanya na nakakuha ito ng “DENR-approved Exploration Work Program.”
“Since it started operations in July 2022, AItai has been peacefully exercising its rights under the MPSA, faithfully implementing its provisions and meticulously complying with the requirements of the law,” dagdag ng APMC.
Kamakailan ay nagpalabas ang DENR’s Environmental Management Bureau sa Mimaropa ng notices of violation sa APMC sa umano’y paglabag sa mga batas sa “clean water and management of toxic substances and wastes.” Inakusahan din ang kompanya ng pagputol ng mga puno nang walang permit.
Ilang residente ng isla ang sinubukang pigilan ang mga truck ng APMC sa pamamagitan ng human barricade.
Naghain naman si Senator Risa Hontiveros ng Senate resolution para imbestigahan ang nickel at metallic mining activities sa Sibuyan Island matapos ang marahas na protesta.
Iginiit ng APMC na isa itong lehitimong private business entity na “not owned, controlled or ran by any political personalities.”
“We, in Altai, vehemently deny all malicious allegations hurled against us. We are not illegal mining operators. We will address each and every issue before the proper forum so we can focus on the real issues at hand,” giit nito.
“Due process dictates that any investigation should be spearheaded by competent and impartial authorities. We trust that the DENR leadership will review all acts of its subordinates, documents and processes,” dagdag ng APMC. RNT/SA
