In a press briefing on Tuesday morning, Press Secretary Cerge Remonde said the President will ask Atienza to justify the issuance of an ECC (Environmental Compliance Certificate) by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources’ (DENR) to a Norwegian-based company to mine 11,000 hectares of public land in Mindoro.

Government officials of Mindoro have complained that the project would displace around 20,000 residents mostly Mangyans. The officials claimed the mining project would affect agriculture and threaten forest conservation areas, where tamaraws roam and in nearby Puerto Galera, a favorite tourist destination.

The officials are also asking DENR to respect the 25-year mining moratorium in the province.

When asked if Atienza’s action violates the policy of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo in environment conservation and protection, Remonde said the government needs to strike a balance between development and the protection of environment. That’s why, he added, the palace would ask Atienza to explain himself. (PIA9-Pagadian City)

Last update: 19-11-2009 06:13