Antique exec wants hearing on applications for mining
Antique Vice Gov. Rosie Dimamay is seeking to conduct a public hearing on the proposed mining operations in the province.
She said mining is a very serious matter that should be discussed thoroughly with the stakeholders particularly the residents of the area where the mining activity is being proposed.
“While mining can generate income and bring benefits to the investor and the residents and the local government unit in terms of taxes, it can destroy and or alter the environment. That is why, we have to be very careful in granting permits to mining operations in the province,” Dimamay said.
The municipal council of Patnongon has approved the application of Capstone Mining Corp. in Quezon village, but the vice governor said the council or municipal government has no authority to grant mining permits.
Dimamay said the Provincial Board passed a resolution directing the municipal council of Patnongon to conduct a public hearing to determine the real sentiments of the people.
“We have to determine the social acceptability of the mining operation. We have to fully evaluate the mining application,” she added.
Dimamay said it is only the Provincial Mining and Regulatory Board headed by the governor which has the authority to issue small scale mining permits.
However, before the PMRB could grant a small scale permit, the Board still has to conduct a public hearing.
“There is no need for a recommendation from the Sangguniang Bayan or the Sangguniang Panlalawigan,” the vice governor said.
Dimamay said the province has to make sure the mining operation will not be destructive to the environment .
“We need to inform the people particularly those living near the vicinity of the mining site the dangers that the mining operation pose to the lives and properties of the people,” she said.*PNA
