Concept of Task Force Save Rapu-rapu

The polymetallic mining project of the Lafayette Mining Limited, an Australian mining company, is wreaking havoc in the island of Rapu-rapu. In just five months of commercial operation in 2005, Lafayette mining has already caused two destructive mine spills, toxic contamination and fish kill incidents, and economic dislocation of thousands of local fisher folks in the surrounding coastal municipalities.

Lafayette mining operation is facing rising and strong resistance from the local communities who have consistently oppose the mining operations and continue to assert their human rights, protect their livelihood, and defend the local island's ecosystem which is classified as an environmentally-critical area.

In this context, Defend Patrimony, national alliance campaigning against the mining liberalization policies of the Arroyo administration and consistently active in opposing the Lafayette mining project, took the initiative to form the "Task Force Save Rapu-rapu" to further advance the interest and welfare of the local communities affected by the Lafayette polymetallic mining project. "Task Force Save Rapu-rapu" will be composed of organizations and individuals who are united and will actively support the following points:

· Campaign for the stopping of Lafayette polymetallic mining project in Rapu-rapu Island, Albay

· Call for the implementation of mining moratorium in Rapu-rapu Island

· Gather technical, moral and financial support for the needs and welfare of the local communities and for the success of the campaign