The article “Permits absent in Narra mining” (PDI, 26 July 2006, page A16) stated that Platinum Group Metals Corp. (PGMC) is operating without a permit in Narra, Palawan while Sara Marie Mining Inc. (SMMI) continues to drill in the same area despite an earlier Cease and Desist Order (CDO) from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Mines and Geosciences Bureau (DENR-MGB).

The article further implied that the DENR has not been fair in enforcing the law against mining firms, particularly in the case of PGMC which the Kilusang Laban Sa Mina sa Narra accused of having ties with Secretary Angelo T. Reyes. Our records will prove that our actions on these companies were based on existing rules and regulations and were not influenced by anyone.

Our regional office issued a CDO against SMMI last 16 July 2006 because it was conducting exploration activities without an Exploration Permit. The CDO is still in effect up to this day.

PGMC, on the other hand, is operating using Small-Scale Mining Permits issued by the Provincial Governor of Palawan. It is thus, unfair to drag the name of the DENR Secretary over a permit issued by the local government.

HORACIO C. RAMOS
Director

28 July 2006