Balatoc tribe backs Batong Buhay mine project
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The leadership of the Balatoc Kalinga Tribe Inc. (BKTI) has rejected recent statements opposing the proposed Batong Buhay mining project, saying they do not reflect the position of the tribe's recognized leaders or the majority of its members.
BKTI President Victor Gumisa said the statements circulating in the media were "false" and "misleading" and were intended to create confusion over the tribe's position.
"The public deserves to know the truth. These statements are not supported by the recognized leadership of the Balatoc Tribe," Gumisa said.
He noted that the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples recognized the Balatoc Tribe's priority rights over its ancestral domain in 2008 and granted BKTI the Certificate of Precondition covering the exploration area under Exploration Permit Application No. 79.
Gumisa said BKTI's board and the tribe's Council of Elders support the responsible development of the Batong Buhay mine and have identified Metals Exploration as their preferred mining partner.
Under the proposed joint venture, the Balatoc Tribe would receive a 20 percent equity stake in the operating company and representation on its board of directors, making the Indigenous community an equity partner rather than simply a recipient of royalties.
The proposed agreement also includes commitments to build a P100-million access road, improve healthcare services, provide scholarships, create employment opportunities, and fund infrastructure and community development projects.
Gumisa clarified that no memorandum of agreement or joint operating agreement has been signed, stressing that any final decision will only be made after consultations with the community, legal advisers, and the Philippine Mining Development Corp.
He also alleged that opposition to the project may be driven by groups seeking to protect illegal mining operations in the area.
According to Gumisa, the tribe also plans to prioritize the processing of its Certificate of Ancestral Domain Title and the implementation of its Ancestral Domain Sustainable Development and Protection Plan.
He said the project offers an opportunity to balance responsible mineral development with long-term benefits for Indigenous communities through jobs, infrastructure, education, and healthcare.
