Philippines: BHP Billiton moves out, Unearth Justice moves on

So, BHP Billiton, the world’s mining industry numero uno; whose CEO receives an annual salary and benefits package that could feed all residents of Macambol for many, many years; has given up its stake at the Pujada Nickel Project in Macambol, Mati, Davao Oriental.

The formidable “enemy of the people” of Macambol is finally moving out of their lives.

But what does this really mean?

Some in the global mining sector were baffled by this development. They wonder why BHP Billiton is making major changes in its nickel subsidiary, totally abandoning two nickel mining operations in Indonesia and the Philippines; and selling other nickel- related businesses.

Lower grade mining stakeholders and prospectors were quick to focus their concerns on the value and prospects of nickel.

I bet they are currently frantically reviewing plans, monitoring analysis, reading and rereading forecasts, wanting to be ready once their leader’s trendsetting shows a clear pattern and impact in the nickel sector.

But, BHP Billiton’s movement does not significantly change the picture in Macambol as its local partner, Asiaticus Management Corporation (AMCOR), will still continue to operate the project.

AMCOR are also under the spotlight in CAFOD’s Kept in the dark report. There are some worrying findings: allegations that the company withheld information and tried to bribe local people do not bode well for future community relations.

The threat to environment and people still remains; and Macambol knows this. But the news did elicit an initial hurrah reaction from the people here.

They were happy and thankful that they will now have one battle less to fight. But they soon realized that the magnitude of the problem has not and will not alter now that BHP Billiton is out of the picture.

A member of local community group MMSAID, told me that “Nothing’s changed. Billiton’s moving out only means another company is coming in. AMCOR is not a very big company, where will they get the money to support their operations here?”

Personally, I am not very excited about this movement from BHP Billiton.

Essentially, it is still a status quo. The people of Macambol still need support… your support…anyone’s.

The Catholic community in England and Wales have already shown this support as part of CAFOD’s Unearth Justice campaign, by raising concerns with BHP Billiton and through sending their messages of support to people in Macambol.

I work for the Interfaith Movement for Peace, Empowerment and Development (IMPEDE), campaigning against mining in Macambol.

As I write now, we are not realigning-long term goals and strategies. We are only going to improve our tactics.

In 2009 MMSAID saw a significant change in membership. Not significant in numbers, but in the quality of the new members who have come forward and committed to speak out to protect the environment.

This new batch is being led by a very feisty, white-haired, menthol-smoking 60-year-old woman. She and other new members bring in new wave of energy for the organisation.

Our campaign last year also helped to encourage the provincial governor to issue a moratorium on extractive industry operations in the beautiful Mount Hamiguitan protected area.

But our biggest success remains the unwavering commitment of MMSAID members to continue its struggle against mining in Macambol.

I am personally appealing to all to continue praying and sending in assistance that can help to make things right in Macambol. Thank you.

Posted by JaneM, from CAFOD partner IMPEDE in the Philippines