The Philippines: Governor to Meet with Agencies on Black Sand Mining Issue

Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo is calling for a meeting with various government offices and agencies and other stakeholders on Wednesday to discuss possible venues for a win-win situation and hopefully a final resolution to the ongoing “black sand mining” issue at Barangay Tambacan, Poblacion 4 in Tanjay City.

Expected to be represented at the meeting are the Philippine National Police (PNP), Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the provincial Environment and Natural Resources Division, barangay officials and other stakeholders.

This developed after the governor proceeded to Tanjay City Monday morning to meet with the residents of Tambacan and other supporters and sympathizers opposing what they believe is black sand mining operation in their barangay.

Governor Degamo, who was accompanied by City Administrator Atty. Richard Enojo, met with the village chief and the protesters at the barangay hall and in the presence of the Philippine National Police (PNP) headed by OIC provincial police director Supt. Alet Virtucio.

Public clamor to stop the alleged black sand mining under the guise of dredging the Tanjay River to avert any future flooding has escalated over the past week after irate residents put up barricades at the road leading to the project site after the contractor allegedly violated an order from Capitol.

During his dialogue with the protesters, the governor explained that for as long as the contractor, Sino Italy, Philippines, Inc., fails to present a dredging permit for the Tanjay River, his Cease and Desist Order which he issued weeks ago will remain in order.

Degamo has repeatedly issued a strong warning that he will not hesitate to bring to court any violators of the order.

[mappress]

Press Release, February 18, 2014