What's Happening?
In Itogon, Benguet, the site of a recent landslide at Camp 1, Acupan, Virac has been declared a geohazard area by government agencies. Benguet Corporation (BC) has highlighted that this area was previously identified as hazardous, leading to recommendations
for relocation and cessation of small-scale mining operations. Despite these warnings, residents and miners continue to inhabit and work in the area, raising concerns about safety. The company, along with the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB-CAR) and local government, is working to enforce safety measures to prevent future incidents.
Why It's Important?
The declaration of the Acupan landslide site as a geohazard area is crucial for public safety. Landslides pose significant risks to life and property, and the continued habitation and mining activities in these zones increase the likelihood of future disasters. The situation highlights the challenges of enforcing safety regulations in vulnerable areas and the need for effective communication and cooperation between government agencies, local communities, and corporations. Addressing these issues is vital to prevent loss of life and ensure the safety of residents and workers.
What's Next?
Efforts will likely focus on implementing the recommendations of the technical working group, which include relocating residents and halting mining activities in the geohazard area. The local government and BC are expected to collaborate on strategies to enforce these measures and raise awareness about the dangers of living and working in landslide-prone zones. Continuous monitoring and assessment of the area will be necessary to mitigate risks and protect the community.
