The leadership of Balatoc Kalinga Tribe Inc. (BKTI) has rejected recent statements opposing the development of the Batong Buhay mining project, calling them false, misleading, and not representative of the official position of the Balatoc Tribe in Kalinga.

Speaking on behalf of the tribe, Victor Gumisa said the statements circulating in media do not reflect the views of the recognized Indigenous People’s Organization, the Council of Elders, or the majority of residents in Balatoc, Pasil.

“The public deserves to know the truth. These statements are not supported by the recognized leadership of the Balatoc Tribe. They are false, misleading, and intended to create confusion regarding the legitimate aspirations of our people,” Gumisa said.

He explained that the Balatoc Tribe had already exercised its priority rights over its ancestral domain, as recognized by the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples in 2008.

As the recognized representative of the tribe, BKTI was granted a Certificate of Precondition (CP) covering the exploration area, giving it authority to determine the development of mineral resources under Exploration Permit Application No. 79.

Gumisa stressed that decisions concerning the tribe’s ancestral domain rest solely with BKTI and its recognized leadership, not with individuals pursuing personal interests.

He said BKTI’s board and the majority of tribal elders fully support the responsible development of the Batong Buhay project and have formally nominated Metals Exploration as its preferred mining partner.

Under the proposed joint venture, the Balatoc Tribe would receive a 20-percent equity stake in the operating company along with representation on its Board of Directors.

“This is a pioneering model in the Philippine mining industry. For the first time, an Indigenous community will become a true equity partner rather than simply receiving royalties,” Gumisa said.

Mining partner Faratuk Exploration & Mining Company has presented a draft agreement outlining development commitments, including a P100-million access road, healthcare services, scholarship programs, employment opportunities, infrastructure projects and other community benefits.

Gumisa clarified that no Memorandum of Agreement or Joint Operating Agreement has been signed pending consultations with the community, lawyers and government agencies.

He also raised concerns that opposition to the project may be driven by groups seeking to preserve illegal mining activities in the area.

“If these efforts succeed in blocking responsible development, poverty will continue while only a few involved in illegal operations profit from our natural resources,” he said.

Gumisa said the project is expected to contribute not only to local development but also to the country’s broader critical minerals strategy, while ensuring Indigenous communities remain active stakeholders.