Call it the wrath of nature. Early in the morning of July 11, 2007, with a heavy rainfall and gusting wind, the Sulphide Dam of TVI suddenly collapses. It was the second time within this year that the dam collapsed. The first was last April 2, 2007.

The TVI mining company has been bragging to the community, local and international, that the dam that they built can withstand any weather condition and that it is perfectly safe. This is in line with their advertisement that they practice responsible mining. The dam was initially constructed late last year despite the opposition of the Subanen community since it is not part of the 508.3396 hectare covered by the still illicit MPSA of TVI.

Last June 17, 2007, TVI together with the National Commission on Indigenous People regional officers conducted the Free, Prior and Informed Consent process with the Subanen community to get the consent of the IP’s for the proposed expansion of the company that will cover 4,500 hectares. The Sulphide dam is not covered by the TVI’s “MPSA”. It is part of the proposed area for expansion and is still in the process for application.

At press time, no human casualties were reported. Though the residents near the dam are in grave danger, they do not wish to leave their houses and properties because for them that place is their home, their sanctuary.

A small hut was nearly washed out by the flood of contaminated water from the dam