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Linkton International Mining Corp. has been granted a six-month license to explore and develop the area while Rigid Aggregates Mining Corp.’s application is still pending, said municipal councilor Regi Valle.
Sarangani Gov. Miguel Rene Dominguez said he gave the green light on Linkton as part of the government's thrust to develop the country's mineral resources as a strategy to contain poverty. "We're bullish that investors are noticing the potentials of the province. I'm hoping this would further spur the development of the area,” he said.
Kiamba is a coastal town that hosts the Tuka Marine Park, which is rich in corals and other marine life. It is being groomed as a tourism destination. Environmentalists have expressed fears that mining operations in the area would affect the park's rich marine ground, which is being protected by the local government.
Efren Carido, regional director of the Mines and Geosciences Bureau, said his office has issued clearance for firms to explore portions of Kiamba town and the neighboring municipality of T'boli in South Cotabato. He said, however, that small-scale mining operators need not approach the bureau for their licenses since local government units can issue the same.
Small-scale mining operations, he said, should have capitalization of not more than P10 million.
Carido did confirm the presence of iron deposits in Kiamba although he admits he does not know the volume. (MindaNews)