Canadian mining company abandons project in Romblon

MANILA, Philippines—A Canadian company has abandoned a mining exploration project in Romblon following opposition from the local community, the company said Friday.

Ivanhoe Philippines, a subsidiary of Ivanhoe Mines, cited the local community’s opposition to  mining as one of its reasons for withdrawing from Romblon.

Leo Deiparine, Ivanhoe Philippines president, said it was a “consensus decision” of the company’s  board of directors to leave the province. He said the  project was  a “low priority” for the company.

Mines and Geosciences Bureau chief Leo Jasareno confirmed the company’s decision to abandon its project to explore the mining reserves of Romblon.

Ivanhoe’s withdrawal came after the MGB revoked the exploration license of Altai Philippine Mining, another Canada-based company, on Sibuyan Island, Romblon.