Beyond Extraction: Addressing Health and Equity Concerns in Surface Mining Communities of Libjo, Dinagat Islands

Abstract

•Mining activities are generally NOT perceived to have adverse effects on the overall health of people in the surrounding communities. •A majority of respondents report that the health services provided by the nickel mining company are highly beneficial to the community. These services include, among others, improvements to the local water system, provision of free toilets, and access to the company's clinic for community members. •Several interventions by the mine to improve people’s health or health services were appreciated by the majority of community representatives, including healthcare providers. •Residents closer to the mining site perceive its health impacts less positively, suggesting spatial differences in perceived risk. •Some community members perceive the mining company's health interventions as unevenly distributed across areas. •Mining activities during peak hours are perceived to affect the air quality in the community, raising environmental health concerns.