Mining's bad effects on fisheries, agriculture feared
MAAYON, Capiz – Mining's bad effects on fishery and agricultural crops as well as people's health are the main concerns raised by some officials during last week's congressional consultation on mining held in this town.
These apprehensions were raised by Panay Vice Mayor Gualberto Bernas III and Mr. Allan Cullo, municipal planning and development office (MPDO).
Bernas said Panay town is one of the terrain and dumping grounds of toxic from mining that might contaminate its marine and agricultural products.
The apprehension was also shared by Cullo saying that Panay town is a low land area that water toxic will flow coming from the mining operation.
According to him, Panay has 31 rivers and 35 creeks which are the sources of fish.
Cullo also said that Capiz is known as “Seafood Capital of the Philippines” and Panay town is a big contributor to the title. “So we are against the mining operation,” he added.
Board Member Gilbert Ardivilla also said that exploration is part of mining operation and he warned about the bad effects of the mining on both marine and agricultural products as well as the people’s health.
On its part, Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) representative clarified that exploration is not part of the mining operation.
Last year, Capiz Governor Victor Tanco, Sr. issued an executive order to stop accepting and processing all mining applicationss.
Several years ago, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) approved a resolution imposing 50 years moratorium on mining activities in Capiz, however, after several years, SP also approved resolution allowing the mining firms to conduct exploration.