Semirara Mining & Power Corp. of the Consunji Group said it does not use toxic chemicals in its mining process, as it only involves extraction, stockpiling and shiploading.
The company sent a letter to the Energy Department, which raised environmental concerns over its mining operations in Semirara Island, Caluya, Antique.
Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi sent a letter dated Aug. 12 to Semirara chief executive Isidro Consunji, ordering the company to explain in writing the collateral issues such as toxic waste, sulfur content, mining overburden, land-grabbing and livelihood, which were raised by Environment Department.
The Environment Department also issued a show cause order to Semirara on alleged mining violations. Semirara said it was registered with the Environment Management Bureau as hazardous waste generator to cover its equipment and facilities for hazardous materials such as oil, batteries, electronic equipment, among others, which were maintained and operated by the company.
“SMPC do not utilize toxic chemicals or materials in its operations,” it said.