Semirara starts final rehab of Panian pit

The company defended its operations, saying its coal mine complies fully with environmental laws.

MANILA - Semirara Mining and Power Corporation on Monday said the final rehabilitation process of its Panian open-pit coal mine in Antique has started "to restore the ecological balance."

The Panian pit was recently closed following the depletion of its mineable coal reserves.

The company will then cover the area with humic acid, compost and other materials to add nutrients to the soil, to be followed by a massive reforestation program, it added.

“Our goal is to restore the topography of Panian and promote flora and fauna growth in the area,” Semirara Mining president and chief operating officer Victor Consunji told the stock exchange. 

Semirara, the country’s largest coal producer, said it is still consulting with government to determine the final land use plan. 

In August, Semirara was one of the companies singled out by the environment department for alleged environmental violations.

Source: ABS-CBN News Online