Kampong Bayan

Editorial
Vox Bikol
03-09 December 2007

With its Kampong Bayan, Rapu-Rapu residents have chosen to make their sentiments directly known to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) of Albay regarding the continued operations of Lafayette Mining Corporation in their island. In a very clear and unequivocal language, they demanded the closure of the mine and the cessation of Lafayette's operations and have asked that the Albay SP issue a resolution that reflects the Rapu-Rapu residents' stance. They were joined and supported by environmental and church groups together with people's organizations in this regard.

What is preventing the Albay SP from heeding a direct manifestation of a community's will on an issue?

The declaration of a provincial board member that "the provincial government has no power to close Lafayette" is debatable. But what is for certain is that the Albay SP, as the people's representative precisely, CAN issue a resolution demanding its closure if it so decides. Again, what stops this legislative body from deciding to act on the Rapu-Rapu residents' clear desire to have a resolution supporting their cause?

Earlier this year, DENR Sec. Angelo Reyes granted the Australian-owned mining firm the permit to resume its operations notwithstanding the still unresolved risk issues surrounding its initial closure. Reyes had declared the renewed operations of the mines safe without actually inspecting the mine site; he then announced that the DENR had deemed Lafayette ready to resume its mining operations. Citing lack of evidences regarding the dangers and detrimental effects of Lafayette's mines, Reyes chose to ignore scientific data presented by reputed experts who nonetheless declared the mine's operations unsafe.

Is this the same track of mind the Albay SP is adopting in the face of Rapu-Rapu residents' Kampong Bayan?

If the Albay SP remains undecided on the issue because of "conflicting" scientific data, then perhaps it can choose to yield to what is unmistakable: the people's - those whom they supposedly represent - rejection of Lafayette. It can choose to issue a resolution against Lafayette's operations in the name of the people whose interests they have sworn to uphold.

Unless, of course, the Albay SP is looking after someone else's interests on the matter.