Industry players make a compelling argument in support of mining, but their promises of handsome returns require scrutiny. Stories from mining communities tell a different story however. Those mainland-based mining firms also employ informal day laborers from nearby villages who are paid under the table and denied some privileges and protections required by formal employment. On the first point, the ground and all the things that grow on it are not worthless as the mining industry suggests. More can be added to this list, but the point is many alternatives to the mining industry exist.

Source: Manila Times November 08, 2021 00:23 UTC