BORONGAN CITY — Marcelino “Nonoy” Libanan, Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, has initiated a collaborative effort to safeguard the historic Homonhon Island in Eastern Samar from further environmental degradation caused by commercial nickel and chromite mining operations.
Libanan announced the activation of Task Force Homonhon after a productive meeting with stakeholders, led by Environment Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga.
“The task force will conduct on-site inspections of mining activities on Homonhon and develop a comprehensive action plan to preserve the island,” Libanan stated.
Ensuring compliance with environmental and community health regulations, along with restoration efforts for disturbed areas, particularly the coastal ecosystem, are key priorities for the task force.
Moreover, Libanan emphasized the expectation for mining companies to contribute to the island’s development by funding electrification and establishing a reliable water supply system for residents.
Homonhon Island holds historical significance as one of the stops during Ferdinand Magellan’s circumnavigation journey. Today, it is home to 5,073 residents across eight barangays within the Municipality of Guiuan.
Undersecretary Carlos Primo David of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has been appointed to lead Task Force Homonhon, with support from various government agencies and local stakeholders.
Representatives from mining firms holding mineral production sharing agreements (MPSAs) in Homonhon have also been engaged to facilitate coordination and implementation of environmental remediation measures.
The current MPSA holders include Global Min-met Resources Inc., Emir Mineral Resources Corp., Verrum Terra Geoscience Inc., Techiron Resources Inc., Mt. Sinai Mining Exploration & Development Corp., Chromiteking Inc., and Nickelace Inc.
Additionally, Libanan has pledged to investigate why the Municipality of Guiuan has not been receiving its rightful share of mining revenues, as mandated by law.
As Homonhon Island stands at the crossroads of historical significance and environmental preservation, the activation of Task Force Homonhon marks a crucial step towards ensuring its sustainable future. (PR)
