As respondent to the case, we have not yet received the official
copy of the Supreme
Court Decision to be able to make a formal comment
on the case. I understand that the Decision may have far-reaching
implications on investments not only on the minerals industry
but in the economy at large as well. We will issue a detailed
statement as soon as we have studied and assessed the extent of
its implications. We anticipate the filing of a Motion for Reconsideration
in consultation with the Office of the Solicitor General within
the prescribed period for appeal.
HORACIO C. RAMOS
Director
January 29, 2004
