DENR’s Mining Audit Report Reaffirms FNI’s Positive Impact to the Local Community in Surigao
Manila—(PHStocks)—Global Ferronickel Holdings Inc. (PSE: FNI), the second largest nickel producer in the country and the largest single lateritic mine exporter in the world, recently received the copy of the pertinent report containing the findings and recommendations of the Mine Audit conducted by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).
Based on the report, Platinum Group Metals Corporation (PGMC), FNI’s operating arm in Cagdianao, Surigao del Norte, was allowed to continue its operations because it is ISO 14001 certified and compliant with the policies, environmental laws, rules and regulations of the Philippine Mining Act and on the issued Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) particularly on the establishment of adequate environmental protection and enhancement measures including safety and housekeeping, and implementation of progressive rehabilitation of mined-out areas. A series of interviews with local stakeholders including barangay officials, schoolteachers, farmers, fisherfolk and members of the Mamanwa tribal group also revealed social acceptability of the mine operation to be very high with several social development projects in place which are well implemented.
Barangay officials provided a strong and unequivocal positive response to the contributions of PGMC through its Social Development and Mining Program (SDMP) in the delivery of livelihood, health, education and infrastructure projects in barangays Hayanggabon and Cagdianao. They view PGMC as a vital partner of the government to boost economic growth and development in the area.
The education sector led by schoolteachers expressed strong support for the operations of PGMC citing the company’s projects in education. Among other education-related initiatives, PGMC recently turned over a classroom building and an atrium to Hayanggabon Elementary School. Plans are also underway to build a five-room two-storey building expansion project to further improve the school’s facilities.
The Department of Health (DOH) also found PGMC compliant to the set standards for health services. Interviews with several residents showed general improvement of community health.
And apart from skills training and various livelihood programs, PGMC provide employment opportunities to many residents of the community.
“Environmental compliance, sustainability, operational excellence and raising the standard of living of the local communities in which we operate are key facets of our operations. We constantly strive to improve the way we do business for the benefit of all stakeholders,” said Atty. Dante R. Bravo, president of FNI.
