DENR chief to inspect Rapu-Rapu mine

Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Angelo Reyes will conduct an ocular inspection of the Rapu-Rapu Polymetallic Mine on Rapu-Rapu Island in Albay early next week to validate the company’s compliance with the environmental conditions and other safeguards set by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) before the mining firm is allowed to operate on a commercial scale.

"I would like to personally see what the company has done, particularly its compliance with the environmental conditions after a test-run," Reyes said in a statement.

Reyes will be accompanied to the mining site by third-party experts and observers who will also ascertain the manner in which the firm conducts its mining operations and its compliance with environmental regulations.

The third-party experts will be led by Marcelo Bolaño, who reviewed the efficiency of the tailings dam design of the polymetallic mine. Also joining the visit are observers from the academe, non-government organizations and members of the media. "We have invited this multisectoral group consistent with our policy of transparency on this issue," Reyes said.

Lafayette Philippines Inc., which owns the project, has a pending appeal with the DENR-Pollution Adjudication Board chaired by Reyes to lift the suspension order imposed on the company after the two tailings spill in 2005. — Perseus Echeminada