BATAWEL SMALL-SCALE MINERS ASSO. GEARS FOR MINAHANG BAYAN

September 13, 2024 Metro BLISTT

BAGUIO CITY

Pocket miners belonging to the   Batawel Smal-Scale Miners Association (BSSMA) based in Barangay Atok Trail here have something to look forward for their future as leaders of the group set to apply for Minahang Bayan (MB) which could lead in the processing of a small-scale mining contract (SSMC). This developed after the City Mining Regulatory Board (CMRB) technical working group    report  on   small-scale mining operations in Barangays Camp 7, Kias and Atok Trail and presented  its  findings and recommendations related to the ongoing small-scale mining operations in the said areas.

The  body  recommended the declaration of a minahang bayan in Atok Trail as the area is within a declared mineral reservation ,and it’s operations must be monitored and regulated. Official of Mines and Geosciences Bureau- Cordillera (MGB-CAR) has confirmed said area (Atok Trail) being mined by Batawel Small-Scale Mining Asso is declared mineral reservation area. In an interview, Neri Reynold Fangloy welcomed the development, and shared the positive  reaction of his members. ‘Maragsakan  da idi madamag da,’ said Fangloy, adding it was a relief for them after years of sacrifice.

‘We shall follow the process in applying for minahang bayan in which it could facilitate a small-scale mining contract,’ Fangloy added. Years, BSSM’s mining operation in Atok Trail was a subject of a closure order, resulting to the displacement dozens of pocket miners. Fangloy, concern on the welfare of his members, came up with a notable alternative livelihood  —aquaphonics , located within their area of mining operation. BSSM, demonstrated true bayanihan spirit, the project was in a way supported the economic conditions of its members.

Primo Agatep/ABN

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