CARRASCAL, Surigao del Sur -- The local government unit of Carrascal, Surigao del Sur headed by Mayor Vicente “VJ” H. Pimentel, III, ably represented by Vice Mayor Jessie James T. Valle, together with the concerned office heads attended a technical conference with the Mines and Geo-Sciences Bureau (MGB) Caraga Regional Office at the Training Center in Surigao City, recently.

The discussion focused on addressing certain issues and concerns involving the discoloration of Panikian River as a result of upland mining operations and other climatic factors which eventually produced the siltation in the river downstream.

Mayor “VJ” Pimentel III accordingly ordered to strictly follow  the responsible mining operations and provide a better approach that will help the marginalized farmers regain their farm productivity.

To adhere to Mayor Pimentel’s order, some interventions like dredging, provision of livelihood and financial assistance to affected farm owners, and repair of existing irrigation canals were among the  strategic steps to undertake. 

It was further recommended to conduct an assessment by a knowledgeable and expert technical team from the Department of Agriculture (DA) and National Irrigation Administration (NIA) for them to come up with proper recommendation and proposal to address certain the said issue.

Meanwhile, the concerned mining companies willingly offered their support and assistance to the affected communities and will  collaborative strongly with the stakeholders and farmers involved. (NGPB/Carrascal-FITS Center/PIA-Surigao del Sur)