SURIGAO DEL SUR—Mining in Carrascal, Surigao del Sur has already started.

Surigao del Sur Governor Vicente "BB" Pimentel said that mining is good as this would alleviate the poor economic status of the province. Those without jobs could benefit from mining, the governor said.

Now that mining is here, many people complained. Many regret that mining is here because many were not hired by the mining company.

Even those employed by the mining company regret because they can see the effects of mining right at their door steps: dust (during dry season), mud (during rainy season).

One former worker of the mining company that I interviewed lamented that their work lasted for five months only. Their daily compensation amounting to P226 has many deductions.

The fishermen can no longer catch fish due to sea siltation. One fisherman lamented that his fishnet now can only catch mud. The mangroves where the fish lay their eggs are now covered with mud—an effect of mining.

One restaurant owner in Barangay Bon–ot, Carrascal town complained that dust now reaches their place. The restaurant owner is saddened that slowly few are eating in their restaurant.

The group called CAHAYAG or Carrascalanon Hiniusang Aksiyon alang sa Yutang Gilauman has been making efforts to bring to the attention of President Gloria Macapagal–Arroyo the call of the people to stop the mining in Carrascal as this brings negative effects to the sea, farmlands, and watershed area.

END

Click here for the Original Visayan Article

Related Articles:
Climate change in Carrascal, Surigao del Sur
Iron Mountain moving to their village