SAVE RAPU-RAPU. SAVE OUR FUTURE.

The island of Rapu-Rapu in Albay, Philippines, is hostage to RRPP, formerly owned by Lafayette Mining Ltd of Australia, now taken over by LG & KORES of South Korea and MSC of Malaysia. Victim of compromised laws & corrupt government officials, the residents can only brace themselves for more ecological disasters & their effects: health problems, loss of land & livelihood, & uncertain future, UNLESS WE TAKE ACTION TO CLOSE THE RAPU-RAPU MINE.

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The Final Verdict

The Final Verdict



RRPP Income from 2005 to 2012

RRPP Income from 2005 to 2012

RRPP Income in 2012

RRPP Income in 2012

AND NOW THE END IS NEAR . . .

AND NOW THE END IS NEAR . . .

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60 Finale




































RRPP Income and Taxes in 2011

RRPP Income and Taxes in 2011







RRPP Income and Taxes in 2010

RRPP Income and Taxes in 2010


OPPOSE THE CONTINUING ONSLAUGHT ON THE EARTH

“I brought you into a fertile land to eat its fruit and rich produce. But you came and defiled my land and you made my inheritance detestable.” (Jeremiah 2:7)


We, the Ecumenical Bishops Forum (EBF), express alarm over the wanton abuse of natural resources by the Transnational Mining Corporations (TNCs) with their local cohorts in South Luzon Region, especially in Bicol. The experience of the Bicolano people is no different from the plight of local communities in mining areas throughout the country: massive environmental destruction, shrinking economic base of the people, militarization of mining communities, displacement of communities due to land-grabbing and unjust land-conversion, gross human rights violations, destruction of flora and fauna, and further impoverishment of the country. The unresolved and ever continuing polymetallic mining operations in Rapu-Rapu Island, Albay, Labo, Paracale, and Jose Panganiban, Camarines Norte, the aggressive mine expansion in Aroroy, Masbate by Filminera Resources Corp., the peculiar magnetite off-shore mining in Camarines Sur by Bogo Mining Resources Corp; the Palanog Cement Plant in Albay, Panganiban and San Andres, Catanduanes, and the deeper quagmire of maldevelopment of mining in Matnog, Sorsogon challenge us to rethink our role as responsible God’s stewards of creation ( Genesis 1: 26-31 ).


Destructive mining is blatantly unethical, unjust, and senseless for it exacerbates poverty, causes dislocation of livelihood of the people, and even threatens the base of life and life itself.


It is lamentable that the national government equates TNC mining with development, and is remiss in its duties in protecting the environment to the detriment of the people. It has been proven that the negative costs of mining operations far outweigh the gains.


Thus, to further liberalize the mining industry in favour of the mining corporations as being trumpeted by the Aquino administration will mean more suffering and death, dislocation, displacement and ruin of the environment.


Hence we call on the Filipino people:



1. To oppose all destructive mining operations, both locally or foreign-owned;

2. To scrap the Mining Act of 1995;

3. To demand immediate moratorium of large scale mining

4. To demand the demilitarization of mining communities

5. To fight for justice and integrity of creation;

6. To pass the HB 4315 or the Peoples’ Mining Bill


We urge our churches and faith-based groups and institutions to pursue organizing, awareness building, and other relevant activities, and be in full solidarity with the people’s movement against destructive mining operations.


With the liberating power of the Holy Spirit, we seek strength and wisdom to carry this task of asserting the right of the earth to survive and all that dwell therein.


Ecumenical Bishops Forum

October 6, 2011




DA Reports Rise in Fish Catch But Not in Albay Gulf

In the July 12-18, 2011 issue of Diario Veritas, the Department of Agriculture reported:


Nahilingan nin senyales nin pag-asenso an sector nin pagsisira sa paagi kan pagiging aktibo kan mga regional fishing ports sa primerong quarto kan taon.

Ipinahayag nin Rodolfo Paz, an general manager kan Philippine Fisheries Development Authority (PFDA), an mga dakop kan sira an nagtaas nin maabot sa 93 porsyento sa Navotas, Iloilo, asin Sual, Pangasinan.

Siring man an nanotaran sa Davao Fish Port Complex na nagkaigwa man na 40% na pagdakul nin dakop kumparadosa dakop kan mga parasira sa kaparehong peryodo kan nakaaging taon.

Katakod kaini, pinag-engganyar kan DA an gabos na local na gobyerno sa nasyon na pakusugon an industriya nina pagsisira partikular sa aspeto kan environmental protection asin pagbukod sa mga ilegal na mga parasira.

Nakaabot kaya an report sa DA na rampante an paggamit nin mga dinamitakan mga parasira sa nagkakapirang kostal na lugar kan nasyon kun saen saro kan naunambitan digdi iyo an rehiyon Bikol.


At least two points are implied in this report. First, there are rises in fish catch in several areas of the country but not in Albay Gulf. Second, the DA blames all declines in fish catch on environmental degradation “and” illegal fishing.

On the first implication: Why is there no report of any rise in fish catch in Albay Gulf? The answer is obvious: there is in fact a precipitous decline as attested to by fishermen. A 95% decline has been reported here since 2005 the same year when Lafayette went into full operation. Why is there such a decline? We have referred that question to the DA and its line bureau BFAR (Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources) but no answer has ever been given. (They have not even reported any investigation conducted on the cause of death of a 15-meter sperm whale in 2010.)


We have ascribed the decline to mining in Rapu-Rapu from which flow several creeks that are discolored. Officials of Rapu-Rapu Polymetallic Project reply that fish catch decline is a global phenomenon (technical meeting on April 26, 2011 in EMB). Now, we have here a rebuttal to that defense - the DA report of fish catch rise in at least four areas. Fish catch decline is not a global phenomenon.

On the second implication: Since DA reports rises in fish catch in four areas of the country and calls for curtailment of illegal fishing, then it follows that after curtailing illegal fishing we can observe a rise in fish catch. In Albay Gulf, the Bantay Dagat, a local watch group against illegal fishing, has been very active in this campaign. However, the fish catch decline continues. Couple this observation with the fact that the DA confirms the presence of a fish sanctuary in Gaba Bay, Villahermosa, Rapu-Rapu . With a fish sanctuary and active campaign against illegal fishing, fish population should increase within one or two seasons but this does not happen. Hence, illegal fishing cannot be the cause. Again, we are led to the more obvious – the mining operation in Rapu-Rapu.

It should be pointed out that much of the fish catch in the past according to fishermen consisted of migratory fish from the Pacific Ocean – yellowfin tuna, kwaw, malasugi, tanguigue, sharks, etc. These species do not need the local breeding grounds in Albay Gulf to multiply. They spawn in the areas around Guam and come to Albay Gulf to feed seasonally. They pass through the gap between Rapu-Rapu and Prieto Diaz following the current. Since 2005, the catch of these species has consistently declined. Something is barring their path in that gap and that something is none other than the contamination of silt and heavy metals flowing from the mine site through the creeks and ultimately to the waters around Rapu-Rapu. The current carries the contaminants into the Albay Gulf and spreads them as the tide flows back out into the Philippine Sea.

Any way we look at the phenomenon in Albay Gulf, the glaring fact is that mining has adversely affected our food supply. Between fishing where we derive 100% of the benefits and Rapu-Rapu mining where were derive only 1/3 of 1% (according to the statement of Gov. Joey Salceda in the Philippine Daily Inquirer on March 28, 2011), we have to choose the former.


The same issue of Diario Veritas banners the headline “City secures fish trade.” It reports the plan of the Legazpi City Council “to beef up the local fishing industry through stern legislation . . . Councilor Carlos Ante had already invited the different leaders of the local fisher folk to lay out details of a proposed ordinance to secure their livelihood.” I laud the efforts of the good councilor. However, I suggest that a more comprehensive view of the problem be taken if it is ever intended to be solved. As management theory suggests, any solution should address the real cause of the problem. Limiting the analysis within the immediate vicinity of the city’s coastal waters will lead to a failure at solution.


Not too long ago, we learned that several city councilors led by then Mayor Noel Rosal visited the Rapu-Rapu mine. In the newsletter of the Mines and Geosciences Bureau, Foresight, he was quoted as follows: “The mine is full of promise for the province” (Pages 9 and 11). I wrote Hon. Rosal in November 2010 (by then he had become the City Administrator) attaching photographs of the creeks colored brown, red, yellow and orange. I asked if the tour guides brought his group to the creeks. It’s September 2011 and I still have to receive a reply. I also wrote to MGB V and EMB V. Both replied that the contamination in the creeks is within “tolerable levels.”


RRMI, RRPI, LG, Kores and MSC should not think that they have succeeded in convincing the local community in their claim that the mine is operated responsibly and that the benefits they have derived translate to sustainable development of the people. The condition of the creeks, the fish catch decline and the poverty prevailing in the island all speak eloquently of the truth. Environmental damage and economic injustice have worsened. Adding insult to injury, they have praised themselves through press releases about their environmental awards while the residents of Rapu-Rapu and the fishermen of Albay Gulf continue to suffer. The contamination in the creeks may be within “tolerable levels” in the standards of the DENR but the poverty of the island residents, the fish catch decline and the environmental damage are definitely intolerable in the standards of the local community.


The DA, BFAR, DENR, Legazpi City Council, other local government units and other authorities better look into Rapu-Rapu mining honestly if they really want to solve the problem of fish catch decline in Albay Gulf. Anything less than that would not be in keeping with the public trust reposed in them.

September 4, 2011




Giving some; taking so much

Giving some; taking so much

Mining Engineers’ Conference in Legazpi City blind to local residents’ plight!

On July 13 to 15, 2011 some 300 mining engineers converged in Legazpi City for their Bicol regional conference. This event is unfortunate because it projects the impression that mining engineers are blind to the plight of their fellow Filipinos suffering from the environmental damage and economic injustice wrought by mining companies.

We remind the Provincial Government of Albay about the Sangguniang Panlalawigan Resolution 2011-020 issued on March 8, 2011 banning all future mining activities in the province. It should have shown consistency by expressing disfavor against the convention.

We rebuke the City Government of Legazpi for going against the sentiments of Albayanos against the continued destruction of our environment. The city has recently manifested its inability to walk the talk. In Mount Bariw, Barangay Estanza, a large swath of hillside is severely denuded yet it has done nothing. The silt from the denudation has flowed to Barangay Pinaric where it is several inches thick. In Embarcadero, large volumes of floating garbage greet the citizens whenever they go for a leisurely stroll along the boulevard. The city government has been so preoccupied with pleasing tourists but compromised the welfare of local residents who voted them into office and pay millions in taxes. Tourists bring in income but that income is just a means towards providing better living conditions for local residents. The means cannot be exchanged for the end. If the welfare of citizens is disadvantaged by the city government’s preoccupation with pleasing tourists, then it is time to withdraw the trust reposed in them during election.

The hosting of the mining engineers’ convention in Legazpi is a misstep of the city government. It betrays a failure to understand genuine environmental advocacy. While the city brags about its sanitary landfill, it fails to prove its pro-environment agenda by making a prominent endorsement of mining as a stimulant of progress. While we need products derived from mining, we insist that it should be done in the right place and the right manner. That is what responsible mining is all about. So far, however, all claims of responsible mining by many companies are nothing but hot air because of the evident damage wrought on their surroundings like what is happening in Rapu-Rapu, Aroroy, Palanog, Matnog, Paracale, Catanduanes, Caramoan, etc.

They say, if we do not want mining then we should not use the products of that industry. They are dead wrong. We want mining that does not destroy the environment. We want mining that reserves the natural resources of the Philippines for Filipinos. We want mining that spreads the fruits of development to the masses and not only to the foreign investors and their local junior partners.

We want mining that does not sacrifice our agriculture so that we protect our own food supply. Mining generally provides for non-basic needs while agriculture produces our most basic needs like food, clothing, shelter and livelihood. While mining generates a few temporary jobs, agriculture provides long-term sources of income thus genuinely assuring sustainable development.

We call on all mining engineers to support our notion of genuinely responsible mining. In view of the bad record of mining in Bicol, we ask them not to project the impression that they condone what is happening here contrary to declarations by the DENR, MGB, EMB and companies that all is well in Bicol mining. Bicol is severely suffering from the impacts of mining and the statements of the aforementioned entities are belied when we see the plight of the farmers and fishermen and the condition of our mountains, rivers, creeks and seas.

So in their visit to Rapu-Rapu today, they should make an objective assessment on the effects of mining in the island and its residents and not make it a mere field trip. They should talk to the people to know the real impact of RRPP on their lives. They tell us nothing but misery and deepening poverty. While the project heaps billions upon the foreign investors and their local junior partners, it brings “Lilliputian” benefits to the residents of the island and severe fish catch decline in Albay Gulf on which depend some 14,000 fishermen. Today, there is no more fish to catch in the gulf.

In 2010, the project earned P11.7 billion but according to Gov. Joey Salceda himself the province got a social fund of P41.71 million or a measly one-third (1/3) of 1%! If that is not enough, one can look at the creeks flowing from the mine site to the sea. They are colored yellow, orange, red and brown.

We ask the delegates to the mining conference to wake up to realities and not be deceived by the lies of those who support mining operations in Bicol.

July 19, 2011

RRPP’s Awards - Rubbing Salt on the People’s Injury

The DENR recently awarded the Rapu-Rapu Polymetallic Project with the Saringaya Award while the Pollution Control Association of the Philippines, Inc gave it the Mother Nature Award. RRPP also boasts of other “awards” for its alleged “safe and responsible mining” in the island. The project’s executives also claim that they have “raised” the living standards of the host communities.

As the clichĆ© goes, the proof of the pudding is in the eating. One needs only to go to the island and talk to the people to know the real impact of RRPP on their lives. They tell nothing but misery and deepening poverty. While the project heaps billions upon the foreign investors and their local junior partners, it brings “Lilliputian” benefits to the residents of the island and severe fish catch decline in Albay Gulf on which depend some 14,000 fishermen. Today, there is no more fish to catch in the gulf.

In 2010, the project earned P11.7 billion but according to Gov. Joey Salceda himself the province got a social fund of P41.71 million or a measly one-third (1/3) of 1%! If that is not enough, one can look at the creeks flowing from the mine site to the sea. They are colored yellow, orange, red and brown. Challenged to prove his belief in the reports of the Multi-partite Monitoring Team by bathing in the creeks on schedules and sites set by SARA, Director Reynulfo Juan of MGB V, showed photos of people perching on rocks in the discolored creeks on dates and sites they themselves chose. Challenged by SARA to withdraw the armed CAFGUs and allow free access and surprise visits to the creeks, Engr. Rogelio Corpus, President of RRMI, replied that they cannot allow such because they “have to protect their interests.” Hence, the interests of the environment and those of RRPP are contradictory.

The executives of RRPP can go on deluding themselves with fantastic claims of “safe and responsible mining” in Rapu-Rapu but the truth is well-known to the people who suffer much from the environmental damage and economic injustice attendant to the project. The emperor’s new clothes are well-praised by the award-giving bodies. One day, the truth will prevail and the awards will instead shatter their credibility. There is time under heaven for everything, says the Bible. Today, in the island of Rapu-Rapu and villages dependent on Albay Gulf, the people are groaning in pain. The awards are salt rubbed on their wounds while RRPP’s supporters have their photo-ops and raise their toasts of wine in fine dining. We believe that the day will come when, after being denied for so long, the people shall claim justice and RRPP’s awards will go to the dustbin.

July 18, 2011

Noon at Ngayon, Walang Responsableng Dayuhang Pagmimina sa Kabikolan!

Ang nagaganap na 1st Bicol Mining Conference mula Hulyo 13-15, 2011 dito sa Bikol (La Piazza Hotel) sa pangunguna ng MGB-V/DENR-V at ng Phil. Society of Mining Engineers ay isa na namang masamang pangitain para sa mamamayang Bikolano. Pag-uusapan na naman ng ahensya ng MGB-5 at DENR-5 kasama ang mga dayuhang korporasyon sa pagmimina kung paano pa uubusin ang yamang mineral ng Kabikolan, wawasakin ang kabundukan, karagatan at kalupaan ng Bikol.



Kahiya-hiya at malakas pa ang loob na ang itinakdang tema ng kumperensyang magaganap ay: Towards Responsible Mining: “Against All Odds”. Responsable para kanino? - Para sa mga malalaki at dayuhang korporasyon sa pagmimina kasama ng mga malalaking lokal na negosyante at para sa mga matataas na opisyales ng gobyerno at ahensya na nakikipagsabwatan sa mga korporasyong ito.



Kalokohang sabihin na ang operasyon na Open Pit Mining sa Rapu-Rapu, Albay (Rapu-Rapu Polymetallic Project ng Lafayette/LG-Kollins) at sa Aroroy, Masbate (Masbate Gold Project ng Filminera Resources Corporation) ay responsable! Mayroon bang pagpapasabog (blasting) ng kabundukan at kalupaan na “safe and environmental friendly”? Samantalang winawasak nga at hinuhukay pailalim.

Hindi rin responsable ang Magnetite Offshore Mining ng Bogo Mining Resources Corp. sa limang bayan ng Calabanga, Sipocot, Tinambac, Cabusao at Siruma sa Camarines Sur kung saan hahalukayin ang kailaliman ng karagatan 15 kilometro mula sa baybayin nito.

Hindi kailanman naging responsable ang mga dayuhang korporasyon ng pagmimina sa mga naapektuhan ng kanilang mga operasyon. Simula ng operasyon ng RRPP sa Rapu-Rapu ay lalong lumala ang kahirapan at nagkagutom-gutom ang mga residente dito dahil sa pagbagsak ng kanilang kabuhayan sa pangingisda at pagsasaka dulot ng mga lason ng pagmimina dito. Kung mayroong nakinabang sa binayad ng RRPP na P10,862.85 (mine waste fee) para sa 217,257 tonelada na “mine waste” ay ang MGB-V. (mula sa ulat ng MGB-V,2010). Sampung libong piso! Katumbas ba ito ng isang buhay ng nanay na namatay dahil nakakain ng isda dahil sa fishkill doon o ng isang batang namatay doon dahil sa kagutuman?

Apektado na nga ang mga residente sa pagmimina sa Barangay Nakalaya, Jose Panganiban sa Camarines Norte ay naiipit pa sila ngayon sa kaguluhan at away ng Investwell Corporation at ng FMCGI ng pamilyang Fonacier na nag-aagawan ng yamang mineral ng kanilang lugar.

Kasinungalingang ipamaglaki pa sa ulat ng DENR-V/MGB-V na ang malakihang pagmimina sa Kabikolan ang nagpasigla ng ekonomiya ng rehiyon samantalang ayon sa ulat ay nasa ikalawa sa pinakamahirap na rehiyon ang Bikol sa buong bansa. Kung sinasabi na umunlad ang ekonomiya ng Bikol dahil sa malakihang pagmimina – hindi ito maramdaman ng mga mamamayang Bikolano lalo na ng mga apektado ng mapaminsala at dayuhang pagmimina.

Tanging ang mga malalaki at dayuhang korporasyon sa pagmimina kasama ng mga malalaking lokal na negosyante at mga matataas na opisyales ng gobyerno at ahensya na nakikipagsabwatan sa mga korporasyong ito ang nakikinabang sa mga produkto at kita ng pagmimina dito sa Bikol. Sa ulat ng MBG-V/DENR-V noong 2010, sa kabuuan ay may P4,654,818,424.31 at P57,483,032.45 na kita mula sa “metallic ” at “non-metallic production”dito sa Bikol ayon sa pagkasunod-sunod ngunit hindi naman inulat ang mga dambuhala at limpak na limpak na kita ng mga korporasyon na maluwag na inilalabas patungo sa kanilang bansa. Maluwag nang nailalabas ang kita, maluwag pa ang kanilang operasyon dahil sa mga iba’t-ibang insentibo tulad ng: 6 years income tax exemption, 10 years export tax exemption, and import tax exemption at marami pang iba.



Kaya nga parang parang kabuteng nagsulputan ang mga ito sa Bikol dahil sa pagiging sagana ng rehiyon sa yamang mineral at prayoridad pa ng nakaraang gobyerno ni GMA ito para sa malakihang proyektong pagmimina na ipinagpapatuloy lamang ng gobyerno ni Noynoy Aquino at pinasahol pa sa ilalim ng kanyang Public-Private Partnership Program. Gayundin, patuloy ang pag-iral ng Mining Act of 1995 kung saan ay lalong nagbuyangyang sa ating likas na yaman para dambungin at wasakin ang ating kalikasan.



“Towards Responsible Mining: Against All Odds” ? - Ang responsableng pagmimina ay mangyayari lamang sa ating bansa kung magkakaroon ng re-oryentasyon ang industriya ng pagmimina sa ating bansa. Kung saan, ang kita ng industriya ng pagmimina ay napapakinabangan at napapaunlad ang mamamayang Pilipino at hindi napupunta sa dayuhan at sa mga lokal na kasabwat nito. Kung saan, ang gobyerno ang may kontrol ng industriya at hindi ang mga dayuhan.



Hindi dayuhang pagmimina at malawakang kumbersyon ng lupa ang magpapaunlad sa Kabikolan. Hindi ito ang sagot sa kahirapan at kagutuman ng mamamayang Bikolano. Pagpapaunlad ng agrikultura, trabaho at sapat na sahod, tirahan, libreng serbisyo-sosyal ang tutugon sa kahirapan at kagutuman upang mabuhay ng maayos at marangal ang mamamayang Bikolano. Tunay na Reporma sa Lupa at Pambansang Industriyalisasyon lamang ang magpapaunlad sa bansa at rehiyon.



UMALPAS-KA

Hulyo 13, 2011

A Word of Caution

There is another blogsite posing as SAVE RAPU-RAPU with address http://saverapu-rapu.blogspot.com. (Note the DASH.) That site is a deception. Even our design is imitated. The obvious motive is to confuse our readers. Our address has NO DASH between the words "rapu" and "rapu." Our site was first posted on December 3, 2007; theirs, on April 14, 2008. Hence, we are first in going online with this URL and design. We learned about the other site only recently. The apologists of the mining operation in the island can go to this and other lengths just to sow confusion. Deceptive tactics are a disservice to readers and only reveal the desperation of the pro-Rapu-Rapu mining group. Our readers are, therefore, warned.

Matthew 7:16 - You will know them by what they do. Thorn bushes do not bear grapes, and briers do not bear figs.

Matthew 7:20 - So then, you will know the false prophets by what they do.

The creeks are crucial to the condition of fishing grounds

around Rapu-Rapu. They connect the mine site to Albay Gulf. The current severe decline in fish catch in the gulf is blamed on the mining operation in Rapu-Rapu. The decline started in 2005 as reported by fishermen; that's the same year when Lafayette began full operation. That is also the same year when the first two major fishkills started (October 11 and 31). The toxic spills came from the mine site and reached the surrounding body of water via the creeks. The contamination in those creeks will always damage the corral reefs in Albay Gulf. The effluent coming out of the mouths of the creeks prevents the entry of migratory fish from the Pacific Ocean into the gulf.

The joke is that there will no longer be any fishkill - because there are no more fish to kill.

The fish that allegedly died off the coasts of Linao and Binosawan during the fishkill reported by island residents and the parish on May 8, 2011 could be the migratory species from the Pacific Ocean attempting to enter Albay Gulf via the gap between Rapu-Rapu and Prieto Diaz. Linao is a village facing the ocean and Binosawan, the gap.

The MGB V Photographs and "Bathing" in the Creeks of Rapu-Rapu

MGB V Director Reynulfo A. Juan wrote to SARA Spokesperson Virgilio S. Perdigon, Jr. on April 15, 2011:

"With reference to your challenge to take a bath in the creeks, we have done just that. some members of the MMT and personnel of Rapu-Rapu Polymetallic Project (RRPP) went to a picnic and took a bath at Pagcolbon Creek on March 29 and April 3, 2011. We are attaching pictures for your reference. These pictures indicate the current status of the creeks."

In reply, Mr. Perdigon writes:

The good Director says he believes the contamination data but he is not among those “bathing.” Someone is shown sitting on the rocks (obviously not bathing) but the face is not recognizable (number 10).

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Perching not bathing: The people in the creeks are not actually in contact with the water. They are perching on rocks instead, obviously avoiding the effluent.



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Hidden feet and rubber boots: The feet of the men in blue overalls are almost all hidden from the camera but obviously not immersed in water. Still, two photos show that they are wearing what appears to be rubber boots, another evidence of avoidance.

Vegetation avoids water: The photos show that green vegetation is distant from the water while vines that are in contact with it are brown, leafless and (as they appear in the photos) dead.

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Standing not bathing: The people shown to be at the mouth of one creek are also not bathing but standing. Since they were photographed at a great distance, MGB V fails to prove that they are not wearing rubber boots.

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What creek picnic? A group of men seated around some food are not bathing. They do not appear to be anywhere near the creeks. Instead they are in a parking lot as indicated by the pickup truck in the background.

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Bathing not in creeks: The people shown to be bathing are not doing so in the creeks but far out in the sea whose location is not verified. We cannot tell how long they stayed in the seawater.
In contrast to those of MGB V, the following photographs of a clean creek at the foot of Mayon Volcano show very close affinity of the vegetation to the water and even the rocks.

In healthy creeks like those in Mayon Volcano: the leaves mingle with the water and the creek beds are green with moss.



While this Mayon creek is almost crystal clear, yellowish coloration is evident in the creeks emanating from the mine site in Rapu-Rapu photographed by MGB V. The MMT report is silent about results of sampling for heavy metals and freshwater organisms. Allowing us free access and surprise visits would have revealed if there are even snails in the creeks. The armed guards under the Special CAFGU Active Auxiliary (SCAA) base are very strong evidence that something is being hidden in the Rapu-Rapu creeks.

Then and Now: What Difference? What Improvement in the Creeks?

According to RRPP, the coloration of the creeks has improved. However, during the Technical Conference with the Environment Management Bureau Region V and Save Rapu-Rapu Alliance on April 26, Engr. Rogelio Corpus, President of RRMI, said that the difference between the pictures then and now is not significant. He requested the Presiding Officer, Engr. Henry Lopez of EMB V, for permission to present RRPP pictures taken on April 25. The RRPP pictures, however, cannot be verified independently because the mining companies do not want "free access and surprise visits" to the creeks. They do not want to withdraw the armed guards "to protect their interests." As an environmentalist organization, SARA wants to protect the environment. It follows that the interests of RRPP are contrary to those of the environment.



Below, we are presenting ALL pictures in the Annex to the EMB V Investigation Report dated March 8-10, 2011. Those on the left are the pictures we have been showing to authorities which were taken from 2006 to 2009; those on the right are alleged to have been taken in the same spots on March 8 to 10, 2011 by EMB V and the mining companies. You be the judge if there is any improvement.


Pagcolbon gabion

Pagcolbon downstream gabion

Pagcolbon downstream

Pagcolbon downstream looking towards the sea

Pagcolbon shoreline

Pagcolbon downstream

Pagcolbon shoreline

Hollowstone downstream

Hollowstone shoreline


Maypajo shoreline
So, is there any significant difference then and now?



Tuesday, July 29, 2008

MSC to buy 30% of Philippine mine

The Edge Daily
18-04-2008


KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia Smelting Corporation Bhd is acquiring a 30% stake in a stalled mining project in the Philippines for about US$18.9 million (RM60.48 million).

In a statement yesterday, MSC said it had entered into a framework agreement with Philco Resources Ltd, LG International Corp (LGI) and Korea Resources Corporation (Kores) pertaining to its proposed investment in the project on Rapu Rapu Island, about 350km south of Manila, via special purpose vehicle.

Labuan-registered Philco is undertaking the restructuring of Lafayette (Philippines) Inc (LPI), which is the ultimate holding entity of the group of companies that hold the mining and production sharing agreements (MPSAs), the polymetallic (copper, zinc, gold and silver) deposit and the base metal processing plant on the island.

MSC said exploration potential for discovery of more resources to extend the life of the mine was excellent as prospective volcano-sedimentary rock sequence which hosts ore deposits on Rapu Rapu extending eight kilometres along strike had been mapped.

“The mine has mineral claims covering 5,218 hectares, almost the whole of the island. Land for development will not be a constraint if new reserves are found to justify an expansion of operation,” it told Bursa Malaysia.

MSC expected the investment in LPI to contribute positively to the group’s earnings over the medium term, upon the start of commercial production which is expected to take place in the second half of next year.

MSC said the project first started operations in 2004 and was suspended early this year due to unsustainable high level of debts and inter-company loans of about US$270 million and A$65.6 million (RM193.42) respectively, as a result of losses on forward metal contracts and operational difficulties caused by lack of funds.

Philco is a joint venture company with LGI holding 60% and the remaining 40% held by Kores. Philco holds a 26% stake in LPI and is buying over the remaining 74% held by Lafayette Mining Ltd (LAF) of Australia and the inter-company loans to LPI from LAF of about A$65.6 million for US$100. LAF is under voluntary administration.

Late last month, Philco had also signed definitive agreements with the Bank Group to purchase the bank debts of US$270 million for US$18 million, while negotations with the remaining creditors on the outstanding debts of about US$37.4 million have started. MSC said more than 50% of the debts had been restructured into deferred payments, payable from the project future cashflows.

MSC said it together with Philco, LGI, and KORES had agreed to inject more capital to restart the mining operations within 12 months.

It said it was increasingly difficult to acquire projects which had undemanding valuation under the current robust metal prices and the project could provide “excellent returns” on the basis it could be turned around after retrofit of the plant and restructure of the management.

MSC said including the purchase of the bank debts at US$18 million, the total cost to restart the mining operation at Rapu Rapu would be about US$63 million. MSC will finance half of its 30% portion of US$18.9 million via internal funds and the balance via a bridging loan.

MSC said LGI would be granted the right to purchase all the copper and zinc concentrates produced at Rapu Rapu at fair prices to be determined by benchmarking sale terms against prevailing market conditions and on an arm’s length basis.

It said to accommodate Filipino interest and participation in the project, LPI may be listed in the Philippines Stock Exchange at a suitable time.

MSC said tight global copper supply, continued increasing demand in Asia, especially China, and global copper inventories at an all time low, should underpin metal prices in the short to medium term. It added about 50% of net revenues would be from sale of copper concentrates, with the remaining from sale of gold, zinc and silver.

another step toward closing the lafayette mine by rapu-rapu at 11:57 AM

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Expansion of Lafayette's operation is meeting stiff resistance from various stakeholders

Expansion of Lafayette's operation is meeting stiff resistance from various stakeholders

CIRCA flaunts the Ten Commandments of Climate Change

Commandment Number 7 states: Thou shall not resort to open pit mining . . . to avert climate change. Notice the photo of the CIRCA Executive Director at lower left.

CIRCA Defies SARA Boycott Call

CIRCA Defies SARA Boycott Call

Though blurred, the LG label is still visible on the flat screen.

Evidence that Nong Rangasa suggested to invite mining companies to his LGU Summit + 3i exhibit

Evidence that Nong Rangasa suggested to invite mining companies to his LGU Summit + 3i exhibit
Excerpt from the minutes of the meeting on October 11, 2010

Letter from BFAR V dated September 6, 2010

Poblacion-Morocborocan road opening

Poblacion-Morocborocan road opening
This is purportedly a farm-to-market earth road whose construction is under the supervision of the Department of Agriculture Region V, 1.8 km long and worth P5 million

Giving over P10 billion to the miners, Rapu-Rapu gets in return a mere earth road. When the rains come it will be eroded away. It is very possible, however, that this road is just an initial phase towards expansion of mining operations to the north of the island.

Photos 3 to 6 courtesy of Aubrey of Sagip Isla Sagip Kapwa




Medical Mission on March 1 to 3 2010 by Health Alliance for Democracy, Sagip-Isla and Umalpas Ka

Medical Mission on March 1 to 3 2010 by Health Alliance for Democracy, Sagip-Isla and Umalpas Ka
It served 546 individuals in 8 villages (Morocborocan, Mananao, Buenavista, Viga, Tinopan, Guadalupe, Linao and Poblacion)



Opposition to expansion manifested by Sagip-Isla and Umalpas Ka

Opposition to expansion manifested by Sagip-Isla and Umalpas Ka

The Mining Act of 1995 is a major legal foot on which Lafayette stands. Hence, its replacement with the alternative People's Mining Bill is urgent.

The oppositors to mining in Rapu-Rapu were met not by any LGU official but by two policemen. Inside the Municipal Hall, only secretaries were present.

Boycott LG products and strike a blow for environmental protection and economic justice

Boycott LG products and strike a blow for environmental protection and economic justice
On March 3, 2010, the 15th anniversary of the Philippine Mining Act, the Save Rapu-Rapu Alliance publicly announced the Boycott LG Campaign.

In his reply to my letter, Mines and Geosciences Bureau Region V Director Reynulfo A. Juan reveals, among others, the metal production of Lafayette Philippines, Inc., now registered as "Korea Malaysia Philippines Resources, Inc."


What can we do? Our grandfathers shed their blood in the Korean War of the 1950's to save South Korea from Kim Il Sung. Today, South Koreans are taking part in the destruction of Rapu-Rapu. Kores is owned by the South Korean government. We can petition them to withdraw from Rapu-Rapu. LGI is a South Korean company. The Save Rapu-Rapu Alliance is calling on everyone to boycott LGI products - cellphones, aircons, flat screens, washing machines, etc. and strike a blow for justice. Make them feel how it is to lose income the way the fishermen around Albay Gulf have lost theirs. We still do not know how to strike back at MSC. Perhaps, we can call on all Malaysian environmentalists to support us. The people of Rapu-Rapu are calling for help to save their island!

In an endorsement of MGB V to the municipal government of Rapu-Rapu dated September 22, 2009, the additional area applied for exploration permit is indicated on Page 2 as "608 hectares." This confirms our suspicion that Lafayette is all the while engaged in creeping extension of its operation to cover the entire island.

In the 2008 Annual Report of Malaysia Smelting Corporation, on Page 21, the total area reported as covered by mining operation is 5218 hectares, or 608 hectares were added to the old total of 4610 hectares.

In the MGB V document MPSA 163 is recorded to have an area of 167.86 hectares.

The total area covered by MPSA's as of 2005 when the Australians were managing the mine was 4538.84 hectares. In addition, Lafayette has a patented claim of 72 hectares in Pagcolbon, bringing the total to 4610.84 hectares or 82.5% of the island's land area. (In the MGB V document MPSA 163 is recorded to have an area of 167.86 hectares. Please see next photo.)

This is the letter of RRMI, one of LPI's subsidiaries, informing MGB V that it wants to explore the villages of Morocborocan and "Mananao."


Under the Australians, Lafayette Philippines, Inc already had a total of 4610 hectares of the island's 5589 hectares total land area or 82.5%. Still it coveted the remaining 17.5% by applying to explore there.

Gov. Joey Sarte Salceda, when he was shown the map of Lafayette's MPSA areas, drew an arrow pointing to the remaining 17.5%, wrote "No" and signed his name to manifest his veto to any expansion of Lafayette's mining coverage.

Latest reports say that the DENR V has endorsed the application of RRMI to the Rapu-Rapu municipal government for approval to explore for minerals in the northern area of the island, particularly in the village of Morocborocan. Reports have also been received that an access road has been constructed towards the central village of Carugcog, adjacent to the town center, from the current minesite.

The humble livelihood of making hardbrooms from coconut midribs is at risk of final elimination because as mining operations expand, coconut trees are cut by Lafayette.

Images of pain . . .

Images of pain . . .
This woman is the mother of three children all of whom almost died after eating fish found in the waters around the island. Recounting the incident, she cries saying "All we want is for us to be heard."

. . . and poverty

. . . and poverty
Making hard broom is all that the old woman on the right side of the picture can do for a living. Volunteers of the relief mission on August 21-22, 2009 saw wounds on her fingers incurred from the only source of income she can have on the island. Every day she can make four brooms and sells each at P15 ($ 0.32).

The Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Albay Committee on Environment

The Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Albay Committee on Environment
. . . during the public hearing on November 3, 2009

Faults north and south of Rapu-Rapu

Faults north and south of Rapu-Rapu
. . . threaten the Lafayette tailings impounding dam. (Map is from the US Geological Survey.)

Sword of Damocles

Sword of Damocles
This huge pile of waste rocks (materials extracted from the open pit which do not contain ores) and other solid debris is located above the village of Binosawan. The residents are worried that a landslide might bury their village anytime. Photo was taken on August 22, 2009.


Mananao is in the north and Morocborocan is in the west of the island. Map is from http://www.spug.ph/luzon/map/Rapu.jpg

RRPP "detoxification" process

RRPP "detoxification" process
The normal detoxification process employed by the mining company for waste water ends with dumping into the sea. However, the succeeding pictures show how effective such process is.













Still think mining is good for Rapu-Rapu? Think again.

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Stop funding Lafayette! Close the Rapu-Rapu Mine!

Stop funding Lafayette! Close the Rapu-Rapu Mine!
Multi-sectoral rally at the Korean Embassy in Manila

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      • Ecological and social consequences of large-scale ...
      • The Equator Principles
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      • DENR assures crackdown on anti-environment local o...
      • DENR seeks bishops’ help in drive vs. illegal mining
      • CBCP open to help DENR promote responsible mining
      • Mining bill for LGUs urged
      • Environment: A Major Source of Corruption
      • Rosales: Care for Earth for those to come
      • Oxfam America to promote the rights of communities...
      • Puno: Environment high on SC priority list
      • Making mining corporations responsible
      • ...Jeers for GMA on environment
      • Rights violations, legal raps vs mining activists up
      • Why the New Left is green and purple as well as red
      • Mining commission head elected Philippine Bible So...
      • KORES, LG International Corp & SMC are the new own...
      • MSC to buy 30% of Philippine mine
      • LG Int’l Corp.-KORES Acquires Management of Filipi...
      • Korean companies take over Philippine copper mine
      • Lafayette Mining sells Philippines mine stake
      • Stop Persecuting Philippine Environmental Defenders!
      • Legal options still available to counter mining law
      • Env'l protection is of primordial importance in Ph...
      • Mining for Answers in the Philippines
      • Atienza says community engagement is key to succes...
      • LG hiking Rapu-rapu stake
      • World Bank proposes to make poor people benefit fr...
      • Come-on to mining firms matched by environmental s...
      • Atienza off to Singapore to attract mining investors
      • Mining growth target banks on expansion of existin...
      • Mindanao bishops oppose mining
      • Revisiting the Marinduque mining disaster
      • Time is running out for Philippine mining revival
      • MSC to buy 30% in Philippines mining firm
      • Bishops hit gov’t picture of mining industry
      • SARA Letter to the South Korean Ambassador
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      • How much excise tax did Lafayette actually paid? H...
      • Conflict Mapping of Rapu-Rapu Mining in Albay, Phi...
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      • Leighton bags Philippine development contract
      • The Philippine Church on Mining Issues
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Albay Provincial Government says No to Mining!

Albay Provincial Government says No to Mining!
'No to Mining' banner draped on the facade of the Albay Provincial Capitol

'Albay No to Mining' banner on the fence of PeƱaranda Park, Old Albay District, Legazpi City

Damaged pump on board the Lady Jacqueline

Damaged pump on board the Lady Jacqueline
On October 31, 2007 the fastcraft Lady Jacqueline had on board a yellow machine which was actually a damaged pump. It was docked at the east end of the Legazpi port. On October 11, 2005 the fishkill was attributed to another damaged pump. And what could be inside the two crates? Could they be dead fish to be stashed away? These were questions reserved for the investigation that was promised by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Albay (Albay Provincial Board) which never happened.

Rapu-Rapu Mining Documents

  • Backgrounder on the Rapu-Rapu Mining Operation
  • Circulars and Directors' Statement from Ferrier Hodgson, new Administrators of Lafayette Mining Limited (Australia)
  • DENR Assessment of the Rapu-Rapu Polymetallic Project (Full & Summary Reports) - June 2006
  • E.O. 689: Transferring The Philippine Mining Development Corporation From The Office Of The President To The Department Of Environment And Natural Resources
  • Manifesto of the Former Members of the Rapu-Rapu Fact-Finding Commission (after the DENR Report) - June 2006
  • Pastoral Bulletin of Most Rev. Lucilo Quiambao on the Most Recent Fish Kill in Rapu-Rapu - November 2007
  • Pastoral Letter of Most Rev. Arturo Bastes on the Most Recent Fish Kill in Rapu-Rapu - December 2007
  • Rapu-Rapu Fact-Finding Commission Final Report - Executive Summary - April 2006
  • The Equator Principles
  • The Philippine Church on Mining Issues by Mr. Charlie Avila - Talk delivered during the National Mining Conference, 4-5 February 2008

Roman Catholic Diocese of Legazpi says Close the Lafayette Mine!

Roman Catholic Diocese of Legazpi says Close the Lafayette Mine!
Anti-Lafayette billboard by the entrance to the Albay Cathedral

Anti-Lafayette sign at the belfry of Tabaco City Parish church

Coverage of Mineral Production Sharing Agreements (MPSAs) in Rapu-Rapu island

Coverage of Mineral Production Sharing Agreements (MPSAs) in Rapu-Rapu island
The Philippine government has subjected 82.5% of the entire island of Rapu-Rapu to mining operations by foreign corporations without the consent of the island's residents.

Greenspeak Advisory - Aug 4 2008

Upon the advice of our partners and concerned collaborators, we are closing the Greenspeak / Web messages section of this blog. Recently, instead of sensible discussions, we have observed a surge in vitriolic reactions and hate comments, mainly from pro-mining advocates and Lafayette employees. Anti-mining advocates have also responded in kind. So, much as we would like to keep the free flow of ideas - from both sides of the mining question - on how best we can help Rapu-Rapu, the partners feel that the Greenspeak section no longer serves its purpose. Thus, the decision to close it. We apologize, especially to our avid (and rabid) posters, both pro & anti-mining, for whatever feelings of disappointment or loss our decision may have caused them. Comments and reactions may still be posted at the comments section of the blog posts.

Book on Mining in Rapu-Rapu

Book on  Mining in Rapu-Rapu
To set the black propaganda straight, Dr. Emelina G. Regis never applied for any position at Lafayette, RRMI, RRPI, RRPP, or any of their subsidiaries. This book contains damning scientific research on the adverse impacts of mining to the island ecosystem of Rapu-Rapu. To date neither the DENR nor RRMI-RRPI responded to the evidence and conclusions of Dr. Regis' studies. The mining company opts instead to float the bogus claim that Dr. Regis is a disgruntled applicant at Lafayette. The book is published by Ateneo de Naga University (2008).

Kindred Spirits - Links

  • oxfam australia
  • LRC Luzon Advocacy Resource InfoHub - IP Rights, Mining, Forestry and Water
  • bayan bikol
  • bank track
  • foundation for the philippine environment
  • the mineral policy institute
  • bulatlat
  • mines and communities
  • environmental science for social change
  • social action center - legazpi
  • the vatican
  • catholic bishops conference of the philippines
  • the mining news
  • greenpeace
  • alyansa tigil mina
  • kalikasan
  • agham

Rapu-Rapu, atbp.: Taghoy ng Kalikasan

Rapu-Rapu, atbp.: Taghoy ng Kalikasan
Music for the Environment

Kindred Spirits - Blogs

  • ECO-SPIRITUALITY JOURNEY
    Reply to Ambassador's Investigation Report on OECD Complaint vs. Intex
    15 years ago
  • pXpictures
  • Sibuyanons Against Mining
  • The Alyansa Tigil Mina Blog

"New Lafayette" Players

  • Fortun Narvasa & Salazar
  • Korean Resources Corporation
  • Labuan Offshore Financial Services Authority (LOFSA)
  • LG International Corporation
  • Malaysia Smelting Corporation
  • Straits Trading Company Ltd.

Contributors

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  • rapu-rapu

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The real sentiments of majority of Rapu-Rapu residents

The real sentiments of majority of Rapu-Rapu residents
Rapu-Rapu residents during a people's camp rally in front of the Albay Capitol in December 2007

Anti-mining streamer in Poblacion, Rapu-Rapu

Anti-Lafayette streamer on the fence of the Redemptorist community in Gogon, Legazpi City

Billboard in front of St. Raphael Parish in Legazpi City asks: "When will our Government take side with the People?
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