More powers given to task force probing Lafayette’s mining operations

President Arroyo has added more teeth to the fact-finding commission looking into the alleged violations of Lafayette Philippines Inc. in its mining operations that allegedly affected the people’s health in Rapu Rapu island in Albay and surrounding areas in Sorsogon.

The President issued Administrative Order No. 145 on March 10, the day she met with five Catholic bishops who aired their concerns about mining activities in the country.

Based on the AO, any person who, without lawful excuse, fails to appear upon summons issued by the commission or who refuses to take an oath, give testimony or produce documents for inspection, when lawfully required, will be subject to discipline as in the case of contempt of court upon application of the fact-finding body before the proper court, in the manner provided for by law.

The commission is headed by Sorsogon Bishop Arturo Bastes, one of those who met the President. Its members include lawyers Nena Araya Santos, Ronaldo Gutierrez, Gregorio Tabuena, Aloysius Baes, Charles Avila, Jojit Canada, Marilou Barcela, Rodolfo Tamayo Jr. and Bishop Jose Rojas Jr.

The commission will evaluate the facts and circumstances surrounding the alleged threat to people’s health and environmental safety in the municipalities of Rapu Rapu in Albay and Prieto Diaz, Gubat, Barcelona, Bulusan and Bacon towns in Sorsogon brought about by the supposed cyanide and mercury spills from Lafayette.

"Specifically, the commission shall investigate reported incidents of fish kill and other damage to people’s health and marine and agricultural areas," the AO read.