RRPP, IRDC/GCC and MGP spent P115.6M for community development, IEC

Records at the MGB-V showed that for the 1^st quarter of 2010, the Rapu-Rapu Polymetallic Project (RRPP) in Rapu-Rapu, Albay spent a total of P2,103,580.07 and P290,447.00 respectively for community development and Information, Education and Communication.

These expenses are equivalent to 15% and 21% of the total budget allotted for community development and IEC, respectively.

On the other hand, the Camalig based Ibalong Resources and Development Corporation/Goodfound Cement Corporation also spent a total of P212,428.00 and P16,524.00 respectively for community development and IEC or 22% and 20% of the company’s annual budget.

In addition, the Masbate Gold Project/Filminera Resources Corporation in Masbate also spent a total of P9.5 million and P1.8 million respectively in community development and IEC or about 59% and 104% of their respective annual budget.

The community development and the IEC are part of the Social Development and Management Program or SDMP of the above mentioned companies which is required by Republic Act 7942, otherwise known as the Philippine Mining Law of 1995, which requires mining companies to allocate one and half percents of their direct and milling cost for community development, e.g.: economic activities, health services, educational assistance, infrastructures and livelihood. (Foresight July-Dec. 2010 issue)