CONNER, Apayao – The Mines and Geosciences Bureau-Cordillera Administrative Region (MGB-CAR) conducted a Public Consultation on the Establishment of a Mineral Reservation Area in Barangay Talifugo, Conner, Apayao on March 9, 2024.
Engr. Stephen Joshua Blanco presented the legal basis for the establishment of a mineral reservation area, while results of the Detailed Mineral Reservation Survey of Talifugo Copper-Gold Prospect were explained by supervising geologist Raymanne Emmanuel Mabazza. Results of the survey showed the presence of intense mineralization in the project area. Rock chip samples taken from the area returned an assay result of 1.915 (gm/MT) which reinforces the copper-gold potential of the area.
MGB-CAR’s chief geologist Benigno Espejo relayed that the regional mining bureau will endorse the declaration of the area to the central office immediately after the required documents have been completed. The conduct of the public consultation is one of the requirements.
Talifugo barangay officials and residents led by Punong Barangay Primo Tacpi attended the consultation and supported the endeavor.
Municipality of Conner Mayor Atty. Jerico Bayaua expressed that this is a welcome development for the municipality lamenting that the municipal government’s budget is highly dependent on the Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) they receive from the national government. With the declaration of a mineral reservation area in the municipality, economic prospects will be better for the local government and the people.
Conner vice mayor Alexander Aswigue, Ms. Lilybeth Dascil representing the office of Governor Elias Bulut, and Kennedy Battikin, OIC CENRO Conner also attended to show support and encourage faithful adherence to environmental laws.