Mayor wants probe of Benguet Corp for illegal mining in Zambales

Mayor Luisito Marty of Sta. Cruz, Zambales, and other officials of the town have asked the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to investigate Benguet Corp. for allegedly extracting nickel ore illegally in their area.

According to Marty, the company's activities – including road construction – have damaged ecotourism spots and pose risks to thousands of Sta. Cruz residents, particularly in the villages of Guisguis, Lomboy, and Tubo-Tubo North.

"They don't have an exploration permit, but they have already extracted," Marty said. "The people are complaining about the construction of even without the approval by government officials such as I."

Environment Secretary Lito Atienza should penalize the company for the destruction of forest areas and other protected places, besides illegally extracting 86 metric tons of minerals.

"We will definitely file complaints," Marty said. "This cannot be allowed to happen. Where is that responsible and sustainable mining they are talking about?"

Danilo Merced, chairman of Barangay Lomboy, said the mining activities have destroyed their farms, wildlife reserves, and water supply.

"Dust from the loose soil covers wide areas in summer, and it turns
into a mud when it rains," Merced said. "This poses a great risk to residents." - GMANews.TV