The movie Blood Diamond starring Leonardo Di Caprio gave us a glimpse of the pitiful working and living conditions of gold mine workers in Africa. The movie touched on the ugly side of gold trading—the exploitation of the native workers at the bottom end of the production line as traders enrich themselves. The issues exposed by the film triggered much public discussion and were even the topic of a cover story of Fortune magazine early this year.

In the Philippines, the mining industry has also had to contend with the negative public image associated with its activities. Local Church officials are appealing for the careful evaluation of mining projects before these are approved. I can appreciate where our bishops are coming from, especially given the reports of accidents in mining projects that placed nearby communities in harm’s way. But it is sad how a few erring mining companies that took ill-advised shortcuts or scrimped on safety and environmental preservation measures have put the entire industry on the defensive.

Reconciling the business and social sides of mining issues entails a lot of give and take from all the stakeholders. A consensus has to be reached and strictly implemented if the country is to maximize the rich mineral resources with which it has been endowed.

Moving beyond mineral resources, our other features in this issue also refer to the country’s many other natural and human resources. Our Enterprise story relates how executive-turned-farmer Roger Gualberto is empowering vegetable growers in Southern Mindanao. In our Geographics section, Karen Bitagun writes about the numerous assets of Bacolod that are bringing investors and tourists to the city.

Nonette C. Climaco
Editor-in-Chief