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Is Mindanao Typhoon-Free?
by Jess G. Dureza

The last time Mindanao, specifically Davao, was hit by a typhoon was about 40 years ago. Typhoon “Titang” circa late 1960’s veered from its course and slammed the coastal towns of Davao del Sur including Davao City. I was a reporter of the Mindanao Times then just fresh from college.

Mindanao is traditionally “outside the typhoon” belt. Although typhoons are born in the Pacific Ocean east of the island they start their westerly course northwards and always miss us. Mindanao in fact includes among its comparative advantage its “immunity” from typhoons. But not any more.
Typhoon “Sendong” hit northern Mindanao and Cagayan de Oro hardest.

I called up our relatives in Cagayan De Oro City since I knew their house was near the river in Barangay Carmen. Their house just disappeared with the rushing waters.

Our lucky cousins (10 in all) saved themselves by climbing a big mango tree that was just outside their window. The house was shattered and they clung for their lives on the branches until they were rescued. I am sure countless horror stories will start filtering out when the smoke clears.

With the many dead and homeless perhaps we can spare a little bit of our blessings this christmas season for those suffering victims. The city government under Mayor Sara Duterte Carpio is generating support. Also the DSWD and other kind souls.

I got word that the provincial government of Zamboanga del Sur, under Governor Tony Cerilles overturned a proposed ordinance by its Municipality of Bayog thereby throwing out an anti open-pit mining ban initiated by the town. Cerilles served as DENR secretary for sometime during President Estrada’s administration. He believes that the provincial government has no business banning open pit mining when it is allowed by the Mining Act which is a national law.

The 3 bishops of the cities of Kidapawan , Koronadal and Digos yesterday issued a statement opposing the Tampakan copper and gold mining project and they laid down the specifics of their opposition. This is good because it gives the XTRATA and Indophil owners of SMI, Incorporated a chance to explain their side and clear up the apprehension of the public if they can. I personally know Bishops Afable, Gutierrez and De la Cruz.

They will listen and I hope they have an open mind not withstanding the Church’s institutional anti-mining posture.