DOE: semirara complied with environmental rules

BusinessMirror – September 23, 2016

The Department of Energy (DOE) has cleared Semirara Mining and Power Corp. (SMPC), saying it has complied with environmental rules.

“The DOE audit team verified the mining operation of SMPC does not discharge toxic material to the mangroves, the sulfur content of the coal if below 1 percent, there is no seaweed farm affected, and the dumping of overburden materials does not affect the nearby housing communities, “a copy of an audit report stated. SMPC Chairmen Isidro Consunji was provided by the DOE a copy of the repot on September 21.

The DOE report followed the environmental audit report by the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB), an agency under Department of Environment and Natural Resources that found the company in compliance with all required metrics meant to protect the environment in and around Semirara island. The EMB report also said SMPC was fully in compliance with its commitments to the community on the island through various programs, including education and skills training, livelihood, economic empowerment, inland and mangrove reforestation among others.