Tampakan environmental impact management plan hailed

KIBLAWAN, Davao del Sur, Philippines – This town’s mayor yesterday said they are “very happy” with how the environmental impact assessment for the Tampakan mine was conducted with credible experts taking the lead in the technical studies.

Kiblawan town would host the Tampakan mine’s major facilities such as the tailings storage and the freshwater dam.

Mayor Marivic Diamante particularly praised the plan’s protection measures for areas of key environmental concern.

“We are very hopeful since they (Sagittarius Mines Inc.) have very good plans for protecting the flora and fauna, and the water catchment,” Diamante said.

Diamante also said her town is both excited and proud to host the biggest infrastructure project in the country’s history.

Diamante said the mine will bring employment, livelihood, and even local tourism opportunities for the town.

She also cited the Aquino administration’s support for the mining industry despite the 1995 Mining Law remaining in effect.

“I have been telling my constituents, even those who oppose the project, that our role is to monitor the mine’s operations and make sure the proponent remains true to its promises,” Diamante said.

According to Diamante, Davao del Sur Gov. Douglas Cagas has already declared support for responsible mining.

Davao del Sur is one of the four provinces hosting the proposed Tampakan copper-gold project; the other three are South Cotabato, Sarangani, and Sultan Kudarat.