Itogonians opposing the expansion of large-scale mining in Dalicno participated in the protest/program in Baguio City on Bonifacio Day, November 30. Here are some of them on stage presenting their cause during the program proper.
The DASSMA on the sign is an acronym for Dalicno Small-Scale Mining Association.
The smaller sign behind the group says "No to APSA 103". They are calling for the rejection of the Application for Production Sharing Agreement (APSA) 103. This is an agreement between the government and the mining firm Itogon-Suyoc Resources, Inc. (ISRI).
Those opposing the agreement claim that the Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC) process wasn't properly conducted and that the expansion of large-scale mining in the area will affect water sources and ancestral lands.
#dalicno #virac #itogon #benguet
