\TABUK CITY, Kalinga – On June 10, 2025, the Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) of Tabuk in Kalinga convened a session to conduct an inquiry into MPSA No. 356 held by the Makilala Mining Company Inc. (MMCI). The inquiry aimed to address various environmental and indigenous peoples’ (IP) concerns raised in relation to the mining project. The session addressed a complaint received by this Office, which stemmed from a protest held in front of the Cordillera office of the Mining and Geosciences Bureau (MGB-CAR) regional office in April 2025.
Among the issues raised were fears regarding the potential impact of mine tailings on nearby agricultural areas, possible water contamination, the alleged lack of proper consultation with indigenous peoples, and questions about benefit-sharing arrangements.
Present during the SP inquiry were representatives from MGB-CAR Engineers Alfredo J. Genetiano and Virginia Briones, DENR, NCIP, MMCI, and a recognized IP leader from the affected area. Notably, the complainants who filed the original grievance were not present during the proceedings.
During the session, the IP representative clarified that consultations with the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) were indeed conducted. He confirmed that a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) was signed and a Certificate of Precondition (CP) was duly issued on September 7, 2024, in compliance with existing legal requirements. He also clarified that the complainants are not recognized members of the concerned IP community, which had voluntarily expressed its support for the project.
MGB-CAR, for its part, reported that the amendment to MMCI’s 3-Year Development/Work Program (3YDWP) is currently under review. Once approved, the company may proceed with the construction and development phase of its operations. It was further noted that the project is being financed through a loan from the Maharlika Investment Corporation (MIC), the country’s sovereign wealth fund.
The Office assured the SP that all environmental, social, and safety concerns are being addressed in accordance with DENR Administrative Order No. 2010-21, which requires the implementation of an Environmental Protection and Enhancement Program (EPEP), a Social Development and Management Program (SDMP), and a Safety and Health Program (SHP) for all mining projects.
MGB-CAR remains committed to ensuring that mining activities in the region are conducted responsibly, with due regard for environmental protection, community development, and respect for the rights of indigenous peoples.
