Finished PH products made of raw PH minerals

The Philippines is, no doubt, one of the richest countries in Southeast Asia when it comes to natural resources, particularly minerals like gold, copper, nickel and chromite. But this should not be made as a reason to rush the extraction of our minerals, especially because we are not yet in a position to make finished goods out of our raw minerals.

Big business, especially the mining companies, may say that we should seize the opportunity as minerals like gold now command high prices. But we know that economically, they will benefit more than the Filipino people. It is high time we put a premium on our environment and the future of Filipinos.

The decision of Malacañang to further study the proposed new mining policy is a welcome development. President Aquino should not allow himself to be bullied by the mining companies. And Environment Secretary Ramon Paje should not allow himself to be cowed by the mining firms’ call for his ouster. The fact that they are desperately using media to smear him, there is every reason to believe that these foreign mining companies are only out to make money, and more money, from our natural wealth for themselves.

—EDWIN MARCELO,

edwinmarcelo43@yahoo.com