Mining Firms In Philippines Yield To Communists' Demands

Published by MAC on 2007-04-17
Source: Philippine Information Agency

Mining Firms in Philippines Yield to Communists' Demands

By Mai Gevera, Philippine Information Agency

17th April 2007

DAVAO CITY - A report received by Mining and Geosciences Board regional director Ed Arreza confirmed that mining firms have been yielding to the demands of rebel groups.

He bared this during the Kapehan sa Dabaw yesterday after a high-ranking military official divulged that elements of the New People's Army have been milking the coffers of these mining companies.

"As per the report I got from my employee in the field, mining companies now on their exploration stage have no other choice but to give in to their demands (referring to the rebel group)", he said.

The information revealed by 1001st Infantry Division commander Carlos Holganza tagged the mining industry as one of the major sources of funds of the said rebel group.

He bared that the group has been relying on these multi-national mining firms which are believed to be trapped by the imposition of the NPA group. "It truly affects the exploration activities of these companies because they can't start or continue operations if they are not willing to give.", Arreza said.

He was told that these mining companies were forced to give in just to be able to penetrate and start operations in their respective areas.

Among the companies that are now on the exploration stage are Hallmark, Don Salvador Lopez Mining, Southern Horizon, Bunawan Mining, Alsons Develoment Corporation, and others. (PIA XI/Mai Gevera)