Philippine E-Journals

Assessment of the Mining Operation in Narra, Palawan: Basis for Program and Policy

Nathaniel Lepasana | Emma Bitao | Ernesto Ferrer

Discipline: Forestry and Arboriculture

 

Abstract:

This descriptive correlation study aimed to determine the demographic profile of the local people in Narra, Palawan, and their perception on the impact of mining on socioeconomic and political development. Data were gathered from respondents through structured questionnaires, and statistical analyses were conducted to examine the associations between demographic variables and perceptions of mining impacts. The result revealed that the majority of respondents were adults, predominantly males, with varied occupations, primarily farming and fishing. They had been residents of the barangay for an extended period, and most were high school graduates. Respondents perceived significant environmental, social, economic, health, and political impacts of mining activities in their community. The study also found a significant association between demographic profile variables such as age, sex, occupation, and years of residency, educational attainment, and perceptions of mining impacts. Specifically, respondents agreed that mining operation had adverse effects on the environment, social aspects, economic condition, and health outcomes. However, they perceived a high level of transparency and accountability in the governance mining activities. Overall, while there were moderate associations between age, sex, and perceptions of environmental impacts, no significant associations were found between demographic variables and perception of social, health, economic, and political impacts. These findings underscore the complex interplay between demographic characteristics and perceptions of mining impacts, highlighting the need for context-specific policy interventions to address community concerns and promote sustainable development in mining-affected areas.