by Jimmy K. Laking
Mayor Juanito “Kulot” Inojales last week put off action on a bid to repeal a 2022 municipal ordinance that banned mining, saying he needed more time to study its pros and cons before giving it the thumbs up or not.
“The other compelling reason is to avoid its being used as a propaganda in the incoming local elections,” he said. “It is best to avoid the accusation that part of one’s campaign funds came from mining.”
The municipal council has passed on third reading an ordinance that sought to repeal the previous ordinance that banned mining.
In passing the ordinance, the council cited the need to allow responsible mining to boost economic prosperity and to create employment.
Anti-mining advocates called on the mayor to veto the ordinance, citing the threats mining posed to the environment.
Mia Adlawan, who is opposed to mining, added: “Gov. Gen. has its beaches and its vast farm lands. I believe that it can survive and even improve as a municipality if we have great leaders to further develop our fishing, agriculture, and tourism sector. We already have abundant resources, let us not exploit it any further.”
While there is no mining company operating in the municipality, the TQGT company has been granted permit to explore adjoining areas of Governor Generoso and Mati City for possible nickel production.
The company also sought partnership with RN Mining Corporation to beef up its capital.
Mayor Inojales clarified its exploration permit which is due to expire next year does not give it license to operate.
“The process involved is a long one, requiring it to come up with a Mineral Production Sharing Agreement as well as the Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC) of indigenous communities,” he said.
He said the company is also required to acquire a foreshore lease agreement since its operation is bound to affect rivers or bodies of water.
The Mines and Geo-Sciences Bureau will also ensure it complies with standards and good practices before its permit to operate is given, he added.
Inojales said responsible mining has the backing of five barangays in Governor Generoso as well as the support of 13 tribal chieftains.
He did not rule out the advantages the municipality would get from responsible mining.
“It would be a boost to the economy,” he said. “Besides, the proposed mining site in barangay Tiblawan is non-productive and is perhaps conducive only to mining.”
