Semirara Mining and Power Corporation’s (SMPC) Molave mine expansion is “technically sound,” the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) said in its audit.
In a disclosure submitted to the stock exchange on Tuesday, the company said that its mining project in Antique was compliant with environmental laws.
“In summary, the project is found to be technically sound considering that all aspects have been considered such as slope stability analysis, analyses of pumping tests of dewatering wells, GHG emission reduction program etc.,” Semirara said.
The SMPC has requested copies of the audit results of the DENR and was received on Tuesday.
However, the DENR said in their statement that there were complaints received on the operation of the project, and that the company should address these complaints.
“It is recommended that a dialogue with the complainants be undertaken especially those who are not residents of the island to discuss the subject of the complaints and possible solutions,” the DENR said.
The environmental audit on the SMPC was conducted on August 30 to 31, 2016 by the DENR audit team composed of representatives from EMB Central Office, EMB Region 6, PENRO – Antique, Provincial Health Office of Antique and Civil Society Organizations.