Anti-mining groups question reinstatement of ECC to mining firm in Mindoro

A unit of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines on Wednesday questioned the government's reinstatement of Intex Resources’  Environmental Compliance Certificate for its Mindoro Nickel Project.

The CBCP-National Secretariat for Social Action joined Alyansa Tigil Mina and Alyansa Laban sa Mina in voicing anger over the decision, which it said betrayed the people of Mindoro and their natural resources.

"We will not let this betrayal extinguish our fire of passion to protect our lands and mountains against corporate greed, pursued in collusion with our own government," CBCP NASSA executive director Fr. Edu Gariguez said on the CBCP news site.

“Mindoreños are one in opposing mining in the province, as this will destroy our fragile ecosystem. The people of Mindoro do not deserve this kind of betrayal from the government, the very same that should be upholding and protecting our rights and our environment,” he added.

The CBCP news site article said Gariguez voiced confidence Mindoro residents will stand their ground to protect the island from environmental degradation.

In November 2009, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources temporarily revoked Intex’s ECC due to questions over how the firm got the certificate.

ALAMIN's Jeff Rafa said the people of Mindoro are now in "rage" because of this very unfortunate event.

"Intex’s ECC reinstatement is a symbol of the Office of the President and the (DENR)’s undeniable betrayal of the Mindoreños welfare and trust,” he said.

ATM coordinator Jaybee Garganera called on the Office of the President and DENR “to revoke the reinstatement of Intex’s ECC."

He said the act was "invalid and contrary to the position of the local government as well as of the affected communities.”

Also, he said Malacañang and DENR must “feel ashamed” for putting corporate business interest above the best interest of Mindoreños and the environment. — Joel Locsin/LBG, GMA News