Mining firm plays down arsenic presence in Pan de Azucar but mum on actions it will take

I LOILO – A mining company conducting mineral exploration activities on Pan De Azucar Island in Concepcion town clarified that it does not use arsenic or any other chemicals in its operations.

TV I Resource Development Philippines Inc. ( TVIRD) issued the clarification in response to concerns raised by the Iloi lo provincial government and the cease and desist order ( CDO) that Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. issued on March 7.

Aside f rom TVID, a CDO was also issued to Mindoro Resources Ltd.

The arsenic was detected in the groundwater near t he exploration area.

“TVIRD maintains that it has not used any chemicals, much less arsenic, in connection with its exploration activities on Pan de Azu car Island ,” the company stressed in a statement.

It was mum, however, on the actions it would take on the matter as demanded by the provincial government.

According to the TVID, arsenic is naturally occurring in the island and associated with massive pyrite deposits, and not a result of their exploration activities.

The issuance of the CDO was based on an investigation by the Provincial Government Environment and Natural Resources Office ( PGENRO), which confirmed the presence of arsenic in the groundwater.

As a result, exploration activities were halted to prevent potential contamination and protect marine life.

TVIRD, expressing surprise at the “abrupt and haphazard issuance of the CDO” and that it was“not afforded an opportunity” to be heard.

The company is now seeking legal remedies to protect its interests, asserting its compliance with the necessary social licenses and environmental regulations.

The provincial government is demanding comprehensive mitigation measures from the two mining companies before exploration can resume, emphasizing the need for specific actions to prevent water contamination and protect the island’s environment and residents./