Philippines: Indigenous peoples wary over new mining policy

Indigenous peoples’ organization Kalipunan ng mga Katutubong Mamamayan ng Pilipinas (KAMP) criticized President Bengino Aquino’s actions in a meeting of foreign chambers of commerce last Thursday.

“Aquino acted like a kid amongst bullies in a schoolyard,” Piya Macliing Malayao, KAMP spokesperson said. “But instead of lunch money, he gave away national economy and patrimony without a fight.”

Aquino promised investors of a new mining policy to be drawn up in mid-February after complaints of ‘inconsistencies’ in the country’s mining policies. Aquino said the new mining policy will be ‘clear-cut’ in response to investors’ unfavorable comments on the extractive industry.

“Aquino was quick to assure investors that their interests are secure, notwithstanding the growing opposition against destructive, large-scale mining in the country,” Malayao said. “It shows Aquino has no real interest in the protection of people’s rights and the environment.”

Investors are ‘confused’ over the Philippines’ current mining policy, according to Julian Payne, President of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce. Canadian mining company TVI Resources Ltd have mining investments in Zamboanga Peninsula, and recently battled local government unit in Zamboanga del Norte after they enacted an open-mining ban in the province.

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