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ENVIRONMENTAL BASELINE STUDY for water and soil quality

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MINERAL EXPLORATIONS AREAS at San Jose, Palo, Leyte and

Palanog, Tacloban City

PACIFIC METALS CANADA PHILIPPINES, INC. (PMCPI)

By: Engr. Leonita Pacheco-Sabando PCAPI-VIII

September 8, 2009

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PROJECT OVERVIEW Philippines is part of a large volcanogenic arc that is particularly abundant in copper and gold deposits. The country ranks second to Indonesia in Asia-Pacific, in terms of mineral prospectivity and resources, ranks third globally in Gold resources, fourth in Copper and fifth in Nickel.

Pacific Metals Canada Philippines Inc. (PMCPI), a corporation fully owned by Philippine Metals Corp. is carrying out the exploration, discovery and development of gold and base metal deposits in the Philippines. Among the company’s initial projects in the Philippines includes Taurus, Malitao and Dilong.

The Taurus-Suhi Massive Sulphide Project is located within the municipalities

of Alang-alang, Santa Fe, Palo and Tacloban City, all in the Province of Leyte, Philippines. The tenement area was explored by trenching, pitting and aditing in early 1969-1970 by Minero Chemical Corporation and Taurus Minerals and Oils Corporation.

The exploration for the Taurus project by PMCPI will conduct a tenement

scale geologic mapping in conjunction with soil and rock sampling and trenching programs. PMCPI also plans to conduct airborne magnetometer and electromagnetic surveys, definition drilling of previously mined areas and exploration drilling of new targets.

PMCPI was issued an Exploration Permit, EP-2009-000008-VIII (Annex 1), for

mineral exploration within the 3,606.5339 hectares of land situated within the areas of Palo, Sta. Fe, Alang-alang and Tacloban City (Annex 2). The EP was issued on April 17, 2009 and released on June 26, 2009. The EP stipulated sixteen (16) conditions, one of which is the conduct of “Baseline Environmental Study for soil and water quality (Condition #16) ” that must be submitted to the DENR – Mines Geosciences Bureau Region VIII within six (6) months from issuance of the Permit. In compliance to condition #16, PMCPI commissioned PCAPI-VIII to do the environmental baseline study for water and soil quality specific for San Jose, Palo, Leyte and Cambalantong-Palanog, Tacloban City Mineral Prospects.

The objectives of this study is to determine the environmental baseline for water and soil quality of San Jose, Palo Leyte and Cambalantong-Palanog, Tacloban City mineral prospect areas in compliance with condition #16 of EP2009-000008-VIII issued to PMCPI.

In consideration of the request of San Jose, Palo Barangay Officials the

potability of groundwater wells “Bubon” in Sitio Pulang Lupa will also be determined.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS Title Page Number

1.0 Project Overview 2 2.0 Sampling Methodology

a) Selection of sampling station b) Samples collection and preservation c) In situ measurement and field observations d) Laboratory analysis e) Quality assurance & quality control f) Timing and frequency of sampling

5 5 5 5 6 6 6

3.0 Observations, Results and Discussion A. San Jose, Palo Mining Prospect A.1 Mine Drainage & Sediments A.2 Surface Water & Sediments A.3 Ground Water A.4 Soil B. Cambalantong-Palanog, Tacloban City) Mining Prospect Area B.1 Mine drainage & Sediments B.2 Surface Water & Sediment B.3 Ground Water B.4 Soil

7 7 7 7

13 16 17 19 26 30 31

4.0 Conclusion and Recommendations 32 Bibliography 32 Annexes Annex 1 – Exploration Permit of PMCPI Annex 2 – Topographic Map of PMCPI Mineral Prospect Annex 3 – Results of analysis of water & soil samples List of Tables 4 List of Figures 4

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LIST OF TABLES Table # Name of Table Page # Table A.1.a Physical Attributes of San Jose, Palo Surface Mine Drainage 7 Table A.1.b Chemical Attributes of San Jose, Palo Surface Mine Drainage 10 Table A.2.a Physical Attributes of San Jose, Palo Surface Water Sampling Stations 13 Table A.2.b Chemical Attributes of San Jose, Palo Surface Water Sampling Stations 15 Table A.3.a Physical Attributes of San Jose, Palo Ground Water Sampling Stations 16 Table A.3.b Chemical Attributes of San Jose, Palo Ground Water Sampling Stations 16 Table A.3.c Bacteriological Quality of San Jose, Palo Ground Water Sampling Stations 17 Table A.4.a Physical Attributes of San Jose, Palo Soil Sampling Stations 17 Table A.4.b Chemical Attributes of San Jose, Palo Soil Sampling Stations 18 Table B.1.a Physical Attributes of CambalantongPalanog Surface Mine Drainage 19 Table B.1.b Chemical Attributes of CambalantongPalanog Surface Mine Drainage 25 Table B.2.a Physical Attributes of CambalantongPalanog Water Sampling Stations 26 Table B.2.b Chemical Attributes of CambalantongPalanog Water Sampling Stations 27 Table B.3.a Physical Attributes of CambalantongPalanog Ground Water Sampling Stations 30 Table B.3.b Chemical Attributes of CambalantongPalanog Ground Water Sampling Stations 31 Table B.4.a Physical Attributes of CambalantongPalanog Soil Sampling Stations 31 Table B.4.b Chemical Attributes of CambalantongPalanog Soil Sampling Stations 31 LIST OF FIGURES Figure # Name of Figure Page#

Figure A1 Map of Sampling Stations for San Jose, Palo, Leyte Mineral Prospect 8 Figure A2 3D Satellite Image (after Goggle Earth of San Jose, Palo, Leyte Mineral Prospect 9 Figure B Photos of environmental baseline activities at Tunnel 1/San Jose, Palo 11 Figure C Photos of environmental baseline activities at Tunnel 2/San Jose, Palo 12 Figure D Photos of environmental baseline activities at Tunnel 3/San Jose, Palo 12 Figure E Photos of environmental baseline activities at Sitio Pulang Lupa Creek (SJRW1) 14 Figure F Photos of environmental baseline activities at Tangnan Creek (SJSW5) 14 Figure G Photos of environmental baseline activities at surface water downstream tunnel 1 14 Figure H Photos of environmental baseline activities of San Jose, Palo groundwater station 16 Figure I Photos of environmental baseline activities of San Jose, Palo soil sampling 18 Figure 1a Map of Sampling Stations for CambalantongPalanog, Tacloban City Mineral Prospect 20 Figure 1ad Photos of CambalantongPalanog Watershed & Leyte Mineral Prospect 21 Figure 2 Photos of environmental baseline activities at Tunnel F/CambalantongPalanog 22 Figure 3 Photos of environmental baseline activities at Tunnels A/CambalantongPalanog 22 Figure 4 Photos of environmental baseline activities at Tunnel B,C,D/CambalantongPalanog 23 Figure 5 Photos of environmental baseline activities at Tunnel D/CambalantongPalanog 24 Figure 6 Photos of environmental baseline activities at Tunnel E/CambalantongPalanog 24 Figure 7 Photos of environmental baseline activities of surface water sampling at CAMSW1 27 Figure 8 Photos of environmental baseline activities of surface water sampling at CAMSW7 27 Figure 9 Photos of environmental baseline activities of surface water sampling at CAMSW2 27 Figure 10 Photos of environmental baseline activities of surface water sampling at CAMSW8 28 Figure 11 Photos of environmental baseline activities of surface water sampling at CAMSW10 28 Figure 12 Photos of environmental baseline activities of groundwater sampling at CAMGW1 30

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SAMPLING METHODOLOGIES:

The methodologies described in the Water Quality Monitoring Manual (WQMM,

pp. 5-12 & pp. 64-78, 1994), of Environmental Management Bureau/Department of Environment and Natural Resources (EMB/DENR), PNOC EDC Environmental Monitoring Protocols (pp25-32, 2007), and the soil classification chart was observed and followed in the sampling of water, sediment and soil for the Project. A summary of the methodologies are discussed as follows: a) Selection of sampling station

Water and sediment samples at different stations of the Permit area were collected to determine the baseline quality of water & river sediments. Samples were collected upstream of the mine area to serve as control, from the mine drainage and downstream of the permit area. Downstream samples are usually taken after the confluence of the mine drainage with the main river system where there is already sufficient mixing.

Samples were also taken from dug wells and spring closest to the mine area

for groundwater monitoring. Soil samples on the other hand were collected at the mine areas and in

agricultural land down slope the mine site.

b) Samples collection and preservation

Sampling protocols in literatures (WQMM EMB/DENR 1994, pp 5-12; PNOC EDC Environmental Monitoring Protocols, 2007, pp25-32) were observed. Bottles pre-washed with 10% nitric acid were used and the same were rinsed with the fluids (river water, groundwater or mine drainage) to be sampled prior filling up. Bottles were then filled to the brim, immediately capped and preserved according to protocols, and labeled with station name, sampling date and time.

Water samples for cyanide analysis were iced packed, hand delivered to

Cebu City and analyzed the following day while water samples for heavy metals analysis were acidified according to protocols, hand delivered to Isabel, Leyte and analyzed within the week.

Sediment samples were collected from the rivers and mine drainage at

different points in the sampling station and a kilo of the composite sample was packed, labeled and hand delivered to Cebu City for heavy metals analysis.

On the other hand, soil samples were collected by digging at least 0.5 meters

hole at 4 different locations of the sampling station, and 500 grams sample was collected then mixed and a kilo of composite sample was packed, labeled, shipped and subjected for laboratory analysis.

c) In situ measurement and field observations

In situ measurements were made for pH and temperature. The pH of water

and effluents were measured on site to determine the true pH of the water

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samples. Otherwise, chemical reactions could take place affecting the pH of the fluids, if still to be measured in laboratories. For the project undertaken, pH was measured using a pre-calibrated WTW pH330i checker. Temperature on the other hand was measured using a dial type thermometer.

Other observations were made during sampling, such as weather, elevation and coordinates of the sampling station. Elevation and coordinates were determined using a global positioning system (GPS) – Garmin explorer. The activity was also photo documented.

d) Laboratory analysis

Water, sediment and silt samples collected from the different stations were hand delivered to DENR accredited laboratories in Cebu and Isabel Leyte for analysis of parameters relevant to Mining operations.

Based on DENR Administrative Orders No. 34 & 35, and the WQMM of the

DENR (1994, page 55), parameters chosen for this environmental baseline sampling includes Copper, Arsenic, Mercury, Cadmium, and Lead. Cyanide and solids were also analyzed as recommended in literatures but for surface water and groundwater samples only.

Methods of analysis approved by the USEPA and recommended by the DENR (WQMM, 1994, pp.56-57) were also utilized in the conduct of laboratory analysis. Heavy Metals (Copper, Cadmium, Mercury & Lead) were analyzed by Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS), Arsenic by SDDC method (Silver Diethyldithiocarbamate), Cyanide by Specific Ion Electrode Method and Total Solids by Gravimetric method.

e) Quality assurance & quality control

Standard protocols for quality assurance and quality control (WQMM EMB/DENR 1994, pp 5-12); PNOC EDC Environmental Monitoring Protocols, 2007, pp32) were also observed for this project and summarized as follows: 1. pH meter and thermometer used in the activity were calibrated before going to

field. 2. pH was measured on site 3. Polyethylene bottles used in sampling were acid washed with 10% nitric acid; 4. During sampling, bottles were rinsed with the fluids prior filling up, filled to

brim and immediately capped 5. Samples for cyanide analysis were iced packed and hand delivered and

analyzed the following day; 6. Samples for heavy metals analysis were acidified with nitric acid and even

analyzed within the week 7. Analysis was undertaken in DENR accredited laboratories

f) Timing and frequency of sampling

Environmental sampling should consider different seasons/periods in the area or locality (WQMM EMB/DENR 1994, pp 5-12). For the project at hand, two (2) sampling that will consider both dry (summer and from March to May) and wet (rainy, rest of the year for Leyte) periods would have been conducted but was not

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considered due to time constraints. The Exploration Permit (EP) issued to PMCPI on April 2009 and released in June 2009, stipulates that environmental baseline study for water and solids must be undertaken and results submitted to the Mines and Geosciences Bureau Region VIII within six (6) months from issuance of EP. This environmental baseline sampling for water and soil thus consider the wet period only. Although it was sunny during sampling, it was raining in the Mine Prospect areas for the past 3 days.

OBSERVATIONS/RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS

This section discusses the field data and observations, laboratory analysis and interpretation for the environmental baseline study on water and soil quality in San Jose, Palo and Cambalantong-Palanog, Tacloban Mineral Prospect. A. San Jose (Palo, Leyte) Prospect

San Jose, Palo mineral prospect has four (4) existing mine adits/tunnels.

Tunnel1 is situated atop a hill, Tunnel 2 has two tunnels situated close to each other, and tunnel 3 is located at the lowest elevation from the other tunnels. Different stations were established in this area, and samples for water, sediment/ silt and soil were collected and subjected to laboratory analysis as part of the environmental baseline study on water and soil.

A.1 Mine drainage

Table A.1.a and Figure A1 shows the established sampling stations for mine drainage and their physical attributes. Figures B to D shows the photo of the tunnels and/or mine drainage, the sampling & field measurements undertaken in these stations, while Table A.1.b shows the quality of mine drainage from the old mine tunnels.

Table A.1.a Physical Attributes of San Jose Surface Mine Drainage Station Coordinates Elevation Description of sampling Station

SJSW2T1

11O10’50.563”N 124O58’4.184”E

148masl Mine drainage located 15meters downstream of Tunnel 1;

SJSW4T23

11O10’50.265”N 124O58’9.850”E

77masl Confluence of 2 mine drainage (5m from tunnel 2b & 14meters from tunnel 2a) & small creek immediately downstream

SJSW6T3

11O10’56.964”N 124O58’10.588”E

79masl Mine drainage fluid of tunnel 3

*masl – meters above sea level

Three (3) stations SJSW2T1, SJSW4T23 & SJSW6T3 that are at the immediate outfall of the mine drainage of the 3 old mine tunnels were considered, and water/sediment samples were collected from these stations and subjected to laboratory analysis.

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Figure A1: Map of San Jose, Palo, Leyte Mineral Prospect of PMCPI and sampling stations established for the environmental baseline sampling for surface water/sediments, groundwater and soil. Please note location of Brgy. San Jose and Brgy. Barayong both of Palo, Leyte are not seen in Figure below

MAP LEGEND: - surface water/sediment sampling station, - mine drainage soil sampling station - groundwater sampling station (at Brgy proper)

As shown in Table A.1.b, the quality of fluids from the mine drainage of Tunnels 1, 2a/2b and 3 (SJSW2T1, SJSW4T23 & SJSW6T3) is slightly mineralized. Traces of heavy metals were detected in the mine drainage such as Cadmium, Copper and Arsenic. Mine drainage from Tunnel 3 is acidic with a pH of 4.4 and has a relatively high Copper (3.47mg/L) and Cadmium (0.007mg/L), but has the lowest observed flow compared to the other tunnels. Tunnel 2, although has a neutral pH and highest observed

Palo River (flows East)

Brgy San Jose, Palo located this side (flows East)

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flow or volume of fluids among the 3 tunnels has the highest Arsenic (0.03mg/L) detected. Other metals are not detected in tunnel 2 mine drainage. Finally, Lead and Mercury were also not detected in all the mine drainage of the 3 old tunnels of San Jose, Palo Mineral Prospect.

Figure A2: 3D Satellite View (after Google Earth) of Palo‐Curajo (Area‐1) Copper Prospect in Brgy San Jose, Palo, Leyte.

Trace/heavy metals were also not detected in the sediments that were sampled and subjected for metals analysis except at Tunnel 2 which registered 71mg/L Copper, despite a relatively high flow of fluids compared to the other mine drainage.

Brgy San Jose, Palo

Area‐1

Figure A2: 3D Satellite View (after Google Earth) of Palo‐Curajo (Area‐1) Copper Prospect in Brgy San Jose, Palo, Leyte.

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Table A.1.b Chemical Attributes (San Jose Surface Mine Drainage)

Station Date & Time of

Sampling

Weather Condition

Surface Water Samples Sediment Samples

pH Temper

ature Total

Suspended Solids

Cyanide Copper Cadmium Arsenic Lead Mercury Copper Cadmium Arsenic Lead Mercury

(oC) (mg/L) (mg/L) (mg/L) (mg/L) (mg/L) (mg/L) (ug/L) (mg/kg) (mg/kg) (mg/kg) (mg/kg) (mg/kg)

SJSW2T1 080209/ 945H Cloudy 6.76 28.5 11 <0.05 0.13 0.006 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.03 <0.003 <0.005 <0.07 <0.001

SJSW4T23 080209/ 1030H Cloudy 7.35 25.9 <0.10 <0.05 <0.01 <0.001 0.03 <0.01 <0.01 71 <0.003 <0.005 <0.07 <0.001

SJSW6T3 080209/ 1100H Cloudy 4.40 26.3 4 <0.05 3.47 0.007 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 No sediment sample collected

Analysis by In situ measurement Techno Lab/Cebu PASAR Laboratory/Isabel, Leyte Techno Lab/Cebu

Method of Analysis

WTW pH330i meter

Dial thermometer

Gravimetric Chloramine T

Colorimetric

Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS)

Flame AAS

SDDC Colorime

tric

Flame AAS

Cold

Vapor AAS

DENR Standard (Effluent)

6.59.0

3OC rise

70

0.2

0.05

0.2

0.3

0.005

0.05

0.2

0.3

0.005

Note: Weather condition during sampling;

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Figure B: photos of Tunnel 1 & activities undertaken thereat

Fig. B1: Photo showing panoramic view of hill beside Tunnel 1 (which is located at the right side); San Jose Palo is located at the back of this hill

and waters from this hill flows to Tangnan Creek then to Brgy Barayong; Fig. B2: Photo showing access to Tunnel 1; hill shown in Figure A is at the upper left side of the Tunnel Fig. B3: Photo showing Tunnel 1 and mine drainage; Sample was taken 15meters downstream Fig. B4: Photo showing soil sampling at Tunnel 1 site; 4 holes were dig and a kilogram of composite sample subjected for analysis Fig. B5: Photo showing water sampling and pH measurement of Tunnel 1 mine drainage; Also shown is Kagawad Villamor witnessing the activity

Figure B4:

Figure B3: Figure B2:

Figure B5:

Figure B1:

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Figure C: Photos of Tunnel 2 & activities undertaken in the area

Fig. C1: shows photo of Tunnel 2a and head water of Tangnan Creek;

sampling was done a few meters downstream due to proximity to another tunnel (Tunnel 2b) that is located downstream of this photo

Fig. C2 & C3: Photo showing sampling & pH measurement at confluence of

Creek and Tunnel 2a and 2b

Fig. D: Photo showing access to Tunnel 3 & Mine Drainage that is the lowest among the Tunnels in San Jose

Figure C3:

Figure D: Figure D:

Figure C2: Figure C1:

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A.2 Surface Water & Sediment

Table A.2.a and Figure A1 shows the established sampling stations for surface water and their physical attributes, while the quality of surface water is shown in Table A.2.b. Three (3) surface/river stations, SJRW1, SJSW3T1 & SJSW5 were established and these are situated upstream and downstream of the mineral prospect areas. Water and sediment samples were also collected from these stations and subjected to laboratory analysis.

Table A.2.a Physical Attributes (San Jose Surface Water Sampling Stations) Station Coordinates Elevation Description of sampling Station

SJRW1

10O54’20.151”N 124O58’10.434”E

24masl* Creek flowing to Sitio Pulang Lupa; stones are reddish in the creek

SJSW3T1

11O10’48.653”N 124O58’7.532”E

108masl Creek immediately below tunnel 1

SJSW5

11O10’57.760”N 124O58’8.286”E

66masl Tangnan Creek, Confluence of creeks and mine drainage from tunnels 1, 2 & 3; Creek flows to Lingaton Creek and subsequently to Barangay Barayong.


SJSW3T1 (Figures G1 & G2), a creek immediately below Tunnel 1, is considered as the headwater and control for Tunnel 1, except when the whole area is affected in future operations in Tunnel 1. Although the creek is located slightly below Tunnel 1, (as the later is located on top of the hill), the fluids from this station is relatively neutral and metals were not detected in the water sample compared to the fluids from mine drainage of Tunnel 1 as shown in Table A.2.b. The mine drainage from Tunnel 1 does not however converge yet with the creek at this station.

SJSW3T1 (creek) converges with Tangnan Creek after the confluence

of mine drainage from Tunnels 2a & 2B, and mine drainage from Tunnels 1 and 3 at point SJSW5. As shown in Fig. A1, drainage from mine areas in San Jose, Palo, Leyte mineral prospect flows to Tangnan Creek then to Lingaton and exits at Brgy Barayong then to Palo River. No sample was taken however from these rivers although downstream of the mineral prospect area, as there was no community consultation yet in the subject Barangay relative to the project. Instead, a station SJSW5 (Figure F) was established immediately after the confluence of all mine drainage and creeks near the old tunnels that thus considered as the immediate impact station for the mineral prospect area. The water quality of Tangnan Creek at SJSW5 and in all creeks monitored for this project is relatively neutral (pH of 7.16 to 7.39) and heavy metals were not detected even if mine drainage already converges with the stations.

On the other hand, Sitio Pulang Lupa Creek (SJRW1), though not a

tributary of Tangnan Creek was considered in the environmental baseline study as the same flows to the wetland in Brgy San Jose, Palo and supplies

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water for irrigation of rice paddies in the area. This creek is slightly acidic with a pH of 4.96, and only Copper was detected from among the heavy metals analyzed.

Sediment samples collected from these creeks were however positive

for Copper, confirming that the area is relatively positive for Copper minerals. Other metals were not detected in the sediment samples.

Figure E: Photo showing Creek & sampling at Sitio Pulang Lupa; This creek flows to the wetland at Brgy. San Jose that feeds rice land in the area Figure F: Photo showing Tangnan Creek and where all the mine drainage of Tunnels in San Jose, Palo Mine Prospect converges; this creek flows

to Lingaton Creek and ultimately to Brgy. Barayong, Palo, Leyte Fig.G1: Shows pH measurement at Creek of Tunnel 1 that is located uphill; Fig. G2: Shows water sampling, GPS readings by the team; Road seen down slope is leading towards Tunnel 1

Figure G1: Figure G2:

Figure E: Figure F:

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Table A.2.b Chemical Attributes (San Jose Surface Water Sampling Stations)


Sampling

Weather Condition


pH

Temperature

Total Solids Cyanide Copper Cadmium Arsenic Lead Mercury Copper Cadmium Arsenic Lead Mercury


SJRW1 080209/ 0950H

Rain showers;

4.96 27.5 <0.01 <0.05 0.01 <0.001 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 2 <0.003 <0.005 <0.07 <0.001

SJSW3T1 080209/ 1005

Cloudy 7.39 27.5 <0.01 <0.05 <0.01 <0.001 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.003 <0.003 <0.005 <0.07 0.20

SJSW5 080209/ 1045H

Cloudy 7.16 25.8 <0.01 <0.05 <0.01 <0.001 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 9 <0.003 <0.005 <0.07 <0.001

Analysis by In situ measurement

Techno Lab/Cebu PASAR Laboratory/Isabel, Leyte Techno Lab/Cebu

Method of Analysis

WTW pH330i meter

Dial thermometer

Gravimetric

Chloramine T

colorimetric


Flame AAS SDDC Colorime

tric

Flame AAS

Flame Vapor AAS

DENR Standard (water quality criteria)

6.58.5

3OC rise

Not more than

30mg/L increase

0.05

0.05

0.01

0.05

0.05

0.002

0.05

0.01

0.05

0.05

0.002

Notes: 1. Weather condition during sampling; 2. Italized fonts are mine drainage

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A.3 Groundwater

Table A.3.a and Figures 1 & H shows the established ground water sampling stations for the San Jose, Palo, Leyte Mineral Prospect and their physical attributes. Two (2) stations were established, SJGW1 and SJGW2. Water was collected from these stations and subjected to total solids, heavy metals and bacteriological analysis. Bacteriological analysis was done as per request of the Barangay Officials.

Table A.3.a: Physical Attributes (San Jose Groundwater Sampling Stations) Station Coordinates Elevation Description of sampling Station

SJGW1

11O10’22.775”N 124O58’33.227”E

15masl Dug well (bobon) located at the back of Brgy market stall; used for laundry, bathing and other domestic use

SJGW2

11O54’15.848”N 124O57’56.446”E

16masl Dug well (bobon) located at Sitio Pulang Lupa; Nearest house is approx 10m from the well; Well is used for drinking by approx 20 households;

*masl – meters above sea level Figure H: Photo showing sampling for groundwater in Brgy. San Jose, Palo, Leyte

Figure H1: Photo showing dug well at the back of Talipapa at San, Jose. Residents uses water for bathing, laundry & other domestic use

Figure H2: Photo showing dug well at Sitio Pulang Lupa, San, Jose. Residents surrounding said well uses water for drinking & other domestic use

Table A.3.b: Chemical Attributes of San Jose, Palo Groundwater Sampling Stations Station Date &

Time of Sampling

Weather Condition

Total Suspended

Solids

Cyanide Copper Cadmium Arsenic Lead Mercury

(mg/L) (mg/L) (mg/L) (mg/L) (mg/L) (mg/L) (ug/L)

SJGW1 08.02.09/0810H

Cloudy 1 <0.05 0.01 <0.001 <0.01 0.02 <0.01

SJGW2 08.02.09/0835H

Cloudy <0.10 <0.05 <0.01 <0.001 <0.01 <0.01 0.01

DENR Standard (WQ criteria)

25mg/L

0.05

1.0

0.01

0.05

0.05

0.002

Note: Method of analysis for ground water is the same as surface water as discussed in previous section; weather condition was reckoned during sampling

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The heavy metals of water from the dug wells at Sitio Pulang Lupa (SJGW2) as shown in Table A.3.b were not detected except for Mercury which registers at a detection limit of 0.01ppb. Copper and Lead were also detected at the dug well in the Barangay proper (SJGW1) as shown in Table A.3.b. Both wells have slightly neutral pH of 6.36, negative for cyanide and positive for bacteria. It should be noted that residents of San Jose, Palo, Leyte generally use water from dug wells or “Bobon” for laundry, bathing and other domestic uses, although the wells at Sitio Pulang Lupa is used for drinking.

Table A.3.c: Bacteriological Testing (San Jose Groundwater Sampling Stations)


Sampling

Weather Condition

pH Temp. Total Coliform Fecal Coliform (oC) MPN/100mL MPN/100mL

SJGW1 08.02.09/0810H

Cloudy 6.36 29 >23 >23

SJGW2 08.02.09/0835H

Cloudy 28 >23 >23

Method of Analysis

WTW

pH330i meter

Multiple – Tube Fermentation Technique

WHO Standard 6.58.5 0 0 0 Note: Weather condition was reckoned during the time of sampling

A.4 Soil

Table A.4.a, and Figures 1 & N shows the established sampling stations for soil at San Jose, Palo and their physical attributes. The stations were located at the mine sites (where old tunnels are located) and at the agricultural land located at the hill following the Barangay site at Sitio Pulang Lupa that is draining towards the wetland. Samples collected from these areas were subjected to laboratory analysis for heavy metals.

Table A.4.a Physical Attributes (San Jose Soil Sampling Stations)

Station Coordinates Elevation Description of sampling Station

SJ soil1

11O10’44.335”N 124O58’15.841”E

87masl Test pit #1; area located upstream of SJRW1 & ricefield in Sitio Pulang Lupa of San Jose, Palo

SJ soil T1

11O10’50.563”N 124O58’4.184”E

108masl Tunnel #1; sample collected is composite of 4 samples collected at different locations in the area

SJ soil T23

11O10’50.265”N 124O58’9.850”E

77masl Tunnel #2; no sample collected from this station

SJ soil T3

11O10’56.964”N 124O58’10.588”E

79masl Tunnel #3; sample collected is composite of 4 samples collected at different locations in the area


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Figure I: Photo showing location of soil test pit #1 (SJ soil1). Area shown down slope of photo is San Jose, Palo area

Results of sampling and analysis (based on samples taken 0.5m deep)

showed that soils in the area are clay-loam, except in Tunnel 3 where soil is relatively sandy and grayish-black in color. Soil in Tunnel 3 is also positive for Mercury at 0.35 mg/Kg compared to Tunnel 1 that is negative for the metal as analyzed. Copper in all sampling sites were also detected and ranges from 2 to 46 mg/Kg, the highest having been recorded at Tunnel 1. The soils are also relatively acidic and ranges from 4.8 to 6.0.

Table A.4.b: Physical & Chemical Attributes (San Jose Soil Sampling Stations)


Sampling

Soil Type

pH Copper Cadmium Arsenic Lead Mercury (mg/kg) (mg/kg) (mg/kg) (mg/kg) (mg/kg)

SJ soil1 9:15AM Clayloam (yellowish brown)

5.3 10 <0.003 <0.005 <0.07 <0.001

SJ soil T1 9:45AM Clayloam (yellowish brown)

4.8 46 <0.003 <0.005 <0.07 <0.001

SJ soil T3 11:00AM Sandyloam (grayishblack)

6.0 2 <0.003 <0.005 <0.07 0.35

Analysis conducted by

TechnoLab/Cebu City

DENR Standard

0.05

0.2

0.3

0.005

*Method Of Analysis for soil sample is the same as that of silts

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B. Cambalantong-Palanog, Tacloban City Mineral Prospect

Cambalantong-Palanog Mineral Prospect is located Barangay Palanog, Tacloban City. The mineral prospect has 6 old mine adits/tunnels. Tunnel A is located in different at a hill across the ridge where the 5 other old tunnels were located, although draining towards the same watershed or drainage. Tunnels B, C & D are located close to each other and at a lower elevation from Tunnel E. Tunnel F is located at the lowest elevation compared to the other mine adits/ tunnels. Different stations were established in the mineral prospect area and samples for water, sediment/silt and soil were collected and subjected to laboratory analysis as part of the environmental baseline study on water and soil. Observations, findings and results of analysis are discussed in the following sections. B.1 Cambalantong Mine Drainage & Sediments

Table B.1.a, and Figures 1a-1d shows the established sampling stations for mine drainage and their physical attributes, while Table B.1.b shows the quality of mine drainage for the Cambalantong-Palanog Mineral Prospect.

Table B.1.a Physical Attributes (Cambalantong Mine Drainage Sampling Stations)

Station Coordinates Elevation Description of Sampling Station

CAMSW3(TA)

11O14’29.413”N 124O56’10.894”E

123masl Mine drainage of Tunnel A

CAMSW4(TBC)

11O14’27.214”N 124O56’13.021”E

107masl Mine drainage of tunnels B & C

CAMSW5(TD)

11O14’27.642”N 124O56’12.233”E

106masl Mine drainage of Tunnel D

CAMSW6(TE)

11O14’26.477”N 124O56’11.204”E

124masl Mine drainage of Tunnel E


As shown in Figure 1a, the mine drainage for old tunnels in the Cambalantong-Palanog Mineral Prospect drains towards Palanog River. Palanog River is used for domestic use by residents living near the dike such as laundry, fishery and bathing.

The stations CAMSW3 (TA), CAMSW4(TBC), CAMSW5(TD) and

CAMSW(TE) are all mine drainage from the old tunnels. No water sampling station was established for Tunnel F (but only soil sampling station) as there was no mine drainage for this area as shown in Figure 2. Tunnel F is still well vegetated compared to the other tunnels. Waterfalls is also situated at the ridge adjacent to this Tunnel (Figure 2).

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CAMSW3(TA) is station established for Tunnel A. Water, sediment and soil samples were collected from this area. The surrounding vegetation for Tunnel A as shown in Figure 4 is generally dominated by grasses (cogon) and shrubs.

CAMSW4(TBC) is the station established for Tunnels B & C (Figure 5).

Tunnel B has also no mine drainage, but for Tunnel C has and samples were collected for water and sediment. Soil sample in this area was a composite sample of the three tunnels (B, C and D) due to its proximate distance from each other.

Figure 1a: Map of Cambalantong-Palanog, Mineral Prospect and sampling stations established for the environmental baseline sampling for water/sediments, groundwater and soil.

MAP LEGEND: - surface water/sediment sampling station, - mine drainage soil sampling station - groundwater sampling station

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Figure 1b: Photo showing the watershed where the CambalantongPalanog mineral prospect is located; Mine drainage and waters

from Mineral Prospect areas and old tunnels flows to this (Palanog) River

Figure 1c: View of Brgy Palanog from Palanog River at station CAMSW10

Figure 1d: View of Brgy Palanog from the old mine safety box upslope of Tunnel F but before junction to the 5 old tunnels

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Figure 2: Above photo shows soil sampling at Tunnel F; Left photo shows Tunnel F and waterfalls (to its right); Mine drainage is relatively dry hence no water sample was collected from this site

Waterfalls seen at the right side mixes with Lower Cambalantong Falls/Creek and at CAMSW1

Figure 3: Photos of Tunnel A

Figure 3: Top photo shows the panoramic view of Tunnel “A” where CAMSW3 & CAMsoilTA is situated; Also shown are sampling & measurements done by the team Left photo shows view of Tunnel A taken from Tunnels BCD. Note of the vegetation of the area which is relatively cogonal or brush land.

Figure2

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Figure4: Photos of Tunnels B, C & D & activities undertaken therein

Figure4: Top photo shows view of Tunnels BCD (below) and E (above); Left photo shows a closer view of Tunnel E; Note of the vegetation surrounding the area that is a mixture of trees, shrubs and coconut; Photos below shows water/sediment/ soil sampling & measurements at Tunnels BC; Mine drainage at B is relatively dry.

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Figure 5: Left - Photos of activities in Tunnel D Figure 6: Above Photo shows sampling & measurements at

Tunnel E The mine drainage from old tunnels in the area as shown in Table B.1.b, are all positive for Copper and Cadmium. Copper ranges from 0.04 to 0.68 mg/L, the highest having been noted in Tunnels B/C. Cadmium level are all at detection limit of 0.001, Arsenic, Cyanide and Mercury were not detected in all of the mine drainage, Lead was only detected at mine drainage of Tunnels B/C, and the TSS ranges from 3 to 43mg/L. The concentration of heavy metals and TSS in the mine drainage was all within the DENR Effluent Standard (DAO 35 of 1990, DENR). For the sediments in the mine drainage, only Copper and Mercury were detected. Copper ranges from 3 to 157 mg/L, the highest having been recorded at Tunnel E and Mercury was detected at 0.1 and 0.74 mg/L at Tunnels B/C and E respectively. Arsenic, and Cadmium were not detected in the sediments except Lead which was detected and at high concentration (198mg/Kg) at Tunnel BC. The concentration of heavy metals in the sediments of the mine drainage, except for Lead at Tunnels BC was all within the DENR Effluent Standard (DAO 35 of 1990, DENR). The sampling however considers only one period and needs to be verified, when necessary.

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Table B.1.b Chemical Attributes (Cambalantong Mine Drainage Sampling Stations)


Sampling

Weather Condition

(during sampling)


pH Temperature Total Solids Cyanide Copper Cadmium Arsenic Lead Mercury Copper Cadmium Arsenic Lead Mercury


CAMSW3(TA) 080209/ 1535H

Sunny 6.86 30.6 43 <0.05 0.14 0.001 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 3 <0.003 <0.005 <0.07 <0.001

CAMSW4(TBC) 080209/ 1550H

Sunny 6.04 26.6 6 <0.05 0.68 0.001 <0.01 0.01 <0.01 32 <0.003 <0.005 198 0.74

CAMSW5(TD) 080209/ 1600H

Sunny 7.53 25.2 3 <0.05 0.09 0.001 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 51 <0.003 <0.005 <0.07 <0.001

CAMSW6(TE) 080209/ 1610H

Sunny 7.02 25.8 11 <0.05 0.04 0.001 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 157 <0.003 <0.005 <0.07 0.1

Analysis by In situ measurement Techno Lab/Cebu

PASAR Laboratory/Isabel, Leyte Techno Lab/Cebu

Method of Analysis

WTW pH330i meter

Dial thermometer

Gravimetric

Chloramine TColorimetric


Flame AAS

SDDC Colorime

tric

Flame AAS

Cold

Vapor AAS

DENR Standard (Effluent)

6.59.0

3OC rise

70

0.2

0.05

0.2

0.3

0.005

0.05

0.2

0.3

0.005

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B.2 Surface Water & Sediments

Table B.2.a, and Figures 1a shows the established sampling stations for surface water and their physical attributes, while Table B.2.b shows the quality of surface water for the Cambalantong-Palanog Mineral Prospect. There were six (6) surface water stations established for creeks/rivers from upstream and downstream of the mine prospect area. Water and sediments were collected from these stations and subjected to laboratory analysis.

Table B.2.a Physical Attributes (Cambalantong Surface Water Sampling Stations)

Station Coordinates Elevation Description of Sampling Station

CAMSW1

11O14’24.145”N

124O56’19.528”E 41masl Impact station; Cambalantong creek and at a confluence of

Cambalantong creek and another creek from Tunnel F; silts, sand 7 stone in this section is reddish brown,reddish,brown and black

CAMSW2

11O14’29.631”N 124O56’16.664”E

80masl Impact station; Creek upstream of Tunnel F

CAMSW7

11O14’26.678”N 124O56’10.348”E

126masl Creek upstream of Tunnel E; station can be considered as control station for the sector/mine area

CAMSW8

11O14’28.092”N 124O56’13.126”E

115masl Impact station; Confluence of creek from CAMSW7 & mine drainage from Tunnels E, B, C & D

CAMSW9

11O14’34.539”N 124O56’12.510”E

103masl Creek not affected by project but will be mixing creeks downstream of Tunnels B, C, D, & A; can be considered as control station for the project

CAMSW10

11O15’11.960”N 124O56’42.858”E

30masl Impact station; Palanog river at the dike immediately before the Barangay proper


As shown in Figures 1a to 1d, drainage from mine areas and surface waters in Cambalantong-Palanog Mineral Prospect flows to Palanog River. As discussed in the previous section Palanog River is used for irrigation and domestic use such as bathing, laundry and fishery of residents near the dike.

Three control stations can be established for the Cambalantong-Palanog Mineral Prospect, station upstream of CAMSW1 or the Lower Cambalantong, station CAMSW7 and station CAMSW9, but only two (2) stations were considered since Tunnel F has a relatively dry mine drainage. CAMSW1 (Figure 7) is the confluence of Lower Cambalantong and the waterfalls/creek beside Tunnel F that is downstream of all Upper Cambalantong Creeks and mine drainage from Tunnels A, B, C, D, & E. CAMSW7 (Figure 8) is located upstream of Tunnels E (also for Tunnels B, C, & D) that are located down slope and Tunnel A that is located in the opposite ridge). CAMSW9 on the other hand is a creek east & down slope of Tunnel A.

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Figure7: Top photo shows surface water, pH measurement & sediment sampling at CAMSW1; Upstream of this Creek is Lower Cambalantong Falls (upstream and not seen at right photo); This Creek is a confluence of Lower Cambalantong Falls that converges with another waterfalls from Tunnel F;

Figure 8 (photo, above): shows sampling and measurements at CAMSW7; located upstream of Tunnel E, B, C, D & A

Figure 9 (photos above): shows water/sediment sampling & measurements at CAMSW2; CAMSW2 is downstream of creek & mine drainage from Tunnels A, B, C, D, E and flows to Cambalantong Falls at Tunnel F

Eight (8) impact stations were established for this project and include CAMSW1, CAMSW2, CAMSW8 & CAMSW10. CAMSW1 is stations located at the confluence of Lower Cambalantong Creek/Fall and Upper Cambalantong creeks and/or waterfalls from Tunnel f. Possible discharges from Tunnel F can be monitored at this station. CAMSW2 is the station

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figures 9

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upstream of Tunnel F and can be considered an impact station for Tunnels upstream Tunnel F and includes Tunnels A, B, C, D, and E. CAMSW8 is an impact station that will catch discharges or mine drainage from Tunnels B, C, D, and E. Finally, CAMSW10 is station established at Palanog River immediately at the dike and before the location where residents are using the river for various uses.

Figures 10 & 11: photo for sampling & measurement at CAMSW8 & CAMSW10

Figure 10: (above and right side photo) Shows sampling and measurement at CAMSW8 Figure 11: (Photos below) shows sampling & measurements at CAMSW10 (right) and the quality of water at that station (left)

As shown in Table B.2.b, Cambalantong-Palanog Creeks sampled for this project have detectable levels of Copper ranging from 0.01 to 0.1mg/L. Other heavy metals were not detectable although levels in mine drainage were detected.

Cyanide in the creeks is negligible and TSS ranges from nil to 5mg/L,

the highest having been noted at the creek prior the waterfalls before Tunnel F (CAMSW2). The water in this creek is turbid probably due to weather condition prior to our sampling.

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Table B.2.b Chemical Attributes (Cambalantong Surface Water Sampling Stations)


Sampling

Weather Condition

(during sampling)


pH Temperature Total Solids Cyanide Copper Cadmium Arsenic Lead Mercury Copper Cadmium Arsenic Lead Mercury


CAMSW1 080209/ 1435H

Cloudy 7.72 26.5 <0.01 <0.05 0.01 <0.001 <0.01 0.01 <0.01 <0.03 <0.003 <0.005 <0.07 <0.001

CAMSW2 080209/ 1510H

Sunny 7.62 26.5 5 <0.05 0.09 0.001 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 47 0.62 <0.005 <0.07 0.31

CAMSW7 080209/ 1620H

Sunny 7.51 26.1 1 <0.05 0.02 <0.001 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.03 <0.003 <0.005 <0.07 0.25

CAMSW8 080209/ 1635H

Sunny 6.89 28.0 <0.01 <0.05 0.08 <0.001 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.03 <0.003 <0.005 <0.07 <0.001

CAMSW9 080209/ 1645H

Sunny 7.55 27.5 1 <0.05 0.01 <0.001 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 4 <0.003 <0.005 <0.07 <0.001

CAMSW10 080209/ 1720H

Sunny 7.03 27.6 1 <0.05 0.10 <0.001 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 2 0.81 <0.005 <0.07 4

Analysis by In situ measurement

Techno Lab/Cebu PASAR Laboratory/Isabel, Leyte Techno Lab/Cebu

Method of Analysis

WTW pH330i meter

Dial thermometer

Gravimetric Chloramine T –

Colorimetric


Flame AAS

SDDC – Colorime

tric

Flame AAS

Cold

Vapor AAS

DENR Standard (water quality criteria)

6.58.5

3OC rise

Not more

than 30mg/L increase

0.05

0.05

0.01

0.05

0.05

0.002

0.05

0.01

0.05

0.05

0.002

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Metals in the sediment were also not detected in the Creeks except at CAMSW2, and CAMSW10 where Copper, Cadmium and Mercury were detected. Copper ranges from nil to 47mg/L, Cadmium from nil to 0.81mg/L and Mercury from nil to 4mg/L. CAMSW2 is at the Creek prior Tunnel F and is downstream of all Tunnels A, B, C, D, and E. CAMSW10 on the other hand is located at Palanog River immediately before the Barangay proper. Copper was also detected at CAMSW9, the creek East of Tunnel A.

B.3 Groundwater

Table B.3.a: Physical Attributes (Cambalantong Groundwater Sampling Stations) Station Coordinates Elevation Description of sampling Station

PALGW

11O15’16.973”N 124O56’42.661”E

24masl Dug well (“Bobon”) at Brgy Palanog at the back of Ms. Melissa house


Table B.3.a and Figures 1 & 12 shows the established sampling station for ground water and their physical attributes for the Cambalantong-Palanog Mineral Prospect. Only 1 station was established and sampled for the area considering its distance from the mineral prospect area and since the Barangay already crosses Palanog River. Collected water sample was subjected to laboratory analysis.

Figure 12: photo for ground water sampling in Palanog area

Dug wells in the area serve as drinking and domestic water source of the Barangay considering its distance from Tacloban City and the absence

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of springs that can be tapped to provide drinking water supply for the area. Other residents however use bottled water for drinking.

Table B.3.b: Physical & Chemical Attributes (Cambalantong Groundwater Sampling Stations)


Sampling

Weather Condition

pH

Temp Total

Suspended Solids

Cyanide Copper Cadmium Arsenic Lead Mercury

(oC) (mg/L) (mg/L) (mg/L) (mg/L) (mg/L) (mg/L) (ug/L)

PALGW 080209/ 1730H

Fair 6.23 27.1 2 <0.05 0.01 <0.001 <0.01 0.01 <0.1

DENR Standard (WQ criteria)

6.58.5

25mg/L

0.05

1.0

0.01

0.05

0.05

0.002

Note: Method of analysis for ground water is the same as surface water as discussed in previous section; weather condition was reckoned during sampling

Results showed that metals except for Lead and Copper were not detected in the groundwater. Levels were however within the DENR standard for drinking water and consider only one sampling period. Another sampling can be done to verify results whenever necessary.

B.3 Soil

Table B.3.a and Figure 2 shows the established soil sampling stations and their physical attributes for the Cambalantong-Palanog Mineral Prospect. Collected samples in the tunnel sites (which is a composite of 4 samples from 4 different holes dig 0.5meters deep in the area) were subjected for laboratory analysis.

Table B.3.a: Physical Attributes (Cambalantong Soil Sampling Stations)

Station Coordinates Elevation Description of sampling Station

Tunnel F

11O14’29.848”N 124O56’18.313”E

61masl Soil sampling station within the vicinity of Tunnel F

CAMSW3(TA)

11O14’29.413”N

124O56’10.894”E 123masl Soil sampling station within the vicinity of Tunnel A

CAMSW4(TBCD)

11O14’27.214”N

124O56’13.021”E 107masl Soil sampling station within the vicinity of Tunnels B, C, D

CAMSW6 (TE)

11O14’26.477”N

124O56’11.204”E 106masl Soil sampling station within the vicinity of Tunnel E


Results of analysis showed that soils in the area (based on composite samples taken 0.5m deep) are clay-loam, except at Tunnel F where the soil is relatively sandy and reddish-brown in color. Except also for Tunnel F, the soil samples are positive for Copper and ranges from 15 to 150 mg/Kg, the

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highest having been noted at Tunnel A. The soils are relatively acidic with pH levels ranging from 5.2 to 6.4, Cadmium was detected at 1.05mg/kg at Tunnel A, and Mercury at 1.0mg/kg at Tunnel E. Although the parameters detected are similar to the fluids and sediment samples of the mine drainage, the concentration or levels could not be correlated. Sampling however considers only one sampling period.

Table B.3.b: Physical & Chemical Attributes (Cambalantong Soil Stations)


Sampling

Soil Type (color)

pH Copper Cadmium Arsenic Lead Mercury (mg/kg) (mg/kg) (mg/kg) (mg/kg) (mg/kg)

Tunnel F 080209/ 1500H

Sandyclayloam (reddish brown) 5.9 <0.03 <0.003 <0.005 <0.07 <0.001

CAMSW3(TA) 080209/ 1535H

Clayloam (yellowish brown) 6.4 150 1.05 <0.005 <0.07 <0.001

CAMSW4 (TBCD)

080209/ 1550H

Clayloam (yellowish brown) 5.2 47 <0.003 <0.005 <0.07 <0.001

CAMSW5(TE) 080209/ 1610H

Clayloam (yellowish brown) 5.9 15 <0.003 <0.005 <0.07 1.0

Analysis conducted by TechnoLab/Cebu City DENR Standard

0.05

0.2

0.3

0.005

*Method of Analysis for soil sample is the same as that of silts SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS & RECOMMENDATIONS: Results discussed in this paper for the soil and water quality of the San Jose, Palo and Cambalantong-Palanog mineral prospects covers only for 1 sampling and during the wet period. Results can however be verified (if warranted) to determine the exact baseline quality of soil and water in the subject areas.

A. San Jose, Palo Mineral Prospect: San, Jose Palo mineral prospect is situated at Brgy. San Jose, Palo,

Leyte. There are four (4) old mine adits/tunnels. Tunnel1 is situated atop a hill, Tunnel 2 has two tunnels situated close to each other, and tunnel 3 is located at the lowest elevation from the other tunnels.

The mine drainage in San Jose, Palo Mineral Prospect is slightly

mineralized. Traces of heavy metals such as Cadmium, Copper and Arsenic were detected in the mine drainage of the 3 old tunnels, except Lead and Mercury. Tunnel 3 has the most acidic fluid (pH of 4.4) and relatively high in Copper (3.47mg/L) and Cadmium (0.007mg/L), but has the lowest observed flow compared to the other tunnels. Tunnel 2, although has a neutral pH and highest observed flow or volume of fluids among the 3 tunnels has the highest Arsenic (0.03mg/L) in fluids and highest copper (71mg/L) in sediments. Tunnel1 has also a relatively neutral pH (6.8) and high TSS (6mg/L). These levels are however within the DENR standards.

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The surface water quality of creeks monitored for this project is relatively neutral (pH of 7.16 to 7.39), and heavy metals were not detected in the subject stations, both in water and in sediments, except for Copper which is positive in all stations, confirming that the area is relatively positive for Copper minerals.

On the other hand, Sitio Pulang Lupa Creek, though located in the

other side of old tunnels is slightly acidic with a pH of 4.96, and only Copper was detected from among the heavy metals analyzed. This Creek flows to the wetland in Brgy San Jose, Palo and supplies water for irrigation of rice paddies in the area. pH is below the DENR standard but is the natural characteristic of the area.

For the ground water in San Jose, Palo, Mercury was detected at Sitio

Pulang Lupa at 0.01ug/L, the detection limit for the parameter. Copper and Lead were detected at the Barangay proper at 0.01 and 0.02 mg/L respectively. Both wells have slightly neutral pH of 6.36, negative for cyanide and other metals, and positive for bacteria. It should be noted that residents generally use water from these wells for laundry, bathing and other domestic uses, and at Sitio Pulang Lupa the wells are oftentimes used for drinking. Except for Bacteria, the levels are however within the DENR standards for groundwater quality,.

The soils in San Jose, Palo mineral prospect, (based on analysis of

samples taken 0.5m deep) are clay-loam, except in Tunnel 3 where soil is relatively sandy and grayish-black in color. Soil in Tunnel 3 is also positive for Mercury at 0.35 mg/L compared to Tunnel 1 that is negative for the metal as analyzed. Copper in all sampling sites were detected (ranges 2 to 46 mg/L). The soils are also relatively acidic with pH ranging from 4.8 to 6.0.

It should also be noted that while the San Jose, Palo mineral prospect

is accessed and within the vicinity of San Jose, Palo, Leyte, the watershed and possible impact area of the mineral prospect drains towards Brgy. Barayong, Palo. Previous community consultation was only done in Brgy. San Jose. It is therefore recommended that a consultation be made at Brgy. Barayong, Palo should further exploration drilling, aditting, trenching and other exploration activities be undertaken for the subject mineral prospect to convey the exploration program and avoid mis-information.

B. Cambalantong Mineral Prospect Cambalantong Mineral Prospect is situated in the mountains of

Palanog, Tacloban City. The mineral prospect has 6 old mine adits/tunnels. Tunnel A is located in different at a hill across the ridge where the 5 other old tunnels were located, although draining towards the same watershed or drainage. Tunnels B, C & D are located close to each other and at a lower elevation from Tunnel E. Tunnel F is located at the lowest elevation compared to the other mine adits/ tunnels.

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The effluents from the mine drainage of old mine tunnels are all positive for Copper and Cadmium. Copper levels ranges from 0.04 to 0.68 mg/L, the highest having been noted in Tunnels B/C. Cadmium was at a detection limit of 0.001mg/Kg. Arsenic, Cyanide and Mercury were not detected in all of the mine drainage, the total solids ranges from 3 to 43mg/L and Lead was only detected at mine drainage of Tunnels B/C. For sediments, Copper, Mercury and Lead were detected in the sediments of the mine drainage. Copper ranges from 3 to 157 mg/L, the highest having been recorded at Tunnel E. Mercury was detected at 0.1 and 0.74 mg/L at Tunnels B/C and E respectively. Lead at 198 mg/Kg was detected at Tunnels BC drainage only. Arsenic and Cadmium on the other hand were not detected in the sediments.

Drainage from mine areas and surface waters in Cambalantong-

Palanog Mineral Prospect flows to Palanog River. Palanog River is used for irrigation and domestic use such as bathing, laundry and fishery of residents near the dike. There are also several (small) waterfalls in the area and are very near the old mine sites. The surface water sampled for this project have detectable levels of Copper ranging from 0.01 to 0.1mg/L. Other heavy metals including cyanide were not detected. TSS ranges from nil to 5mg/L, the highest having been noted at the creek prior the waterfalls before Tunnel F. The turbidity of the creek is probably due to weather condition prior to our sampling. Metals in the sediment were also not detected in the Creeks, except near Tunnel F and at Palanog River (near the Barangay dike) where Copper, Cadmium and Mercury were detected. Copper ranges from nil to 47mg/L, Cadmium from nil to 0.81mg/L and Mercury from nil to 4mg/L.

Dug wells in Brgy Palanog is used for drinking and domestic use

considering its distance from Tacloban City and springs are mineralized and could can be directly tapped for drinking and domestic use . The well sampled for the project is positive for heavy metals except Lead and Copper that were not detected in the samples.

Soil in the area (based on a composite sample taken 0.5m deep) is

clay-loam, except at Tunnel F where the soil is relatively sandy and reddish-brown in color. The soils are relatively acidic with pH levels ranging from 5.2 to 6.4 and positive for Copper except also Tunnel F (from 15 to 150 mg/Kg), the highest having been noted at Tunnel A. Cadmium was detected at 1.05mg/kg at Tunnel A, and Mercury at 1.0mg/kg at Tunnel E. Although the parameters detected are similar to the fluids and sediment samples of the mine drainage, the concentration or levels could not be correlated.

The concentration of heavy metals in the mine drainage, sediment and

soil samples of Cambalantong-Palanog mineral prospect are all within the effluent standards and water quality criteria of the DENR, except lead which is high at Tunnels BC. The sampling however considers only one period and covers wet period and needs to be verified.

It is then recommended to undertake another sampling to cover the dry

period when a complete, theoretical baseline study is desired for the project.

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REFERENCES Department Administrative Order No. 34, Revised Water Quality Criteria, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, 1990. Department Administrative Order No. 35, Revised Effluent Standard, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, 1990. PNOC EDC Environmental Monitoring Protocols, July 2007, pp25-32. Water Quality Monitoring Manual, Environmental Management Bureau/Department of Environment and Natural Resources, 1994, pp. 5-12 & pp. 64-78. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS This project would not have been realized without the assistance of the following, hence my sincere appreciation for their support and cooperation:

1. PMCPI Management & Staff particularly Mr. Joey Garcia, Mr. Joe Aquino & Mr. Bobby Paloma.

2. Ms. Rosario S. Udtuhan & Engr. Reynaldo Barra of DENR-Environmental Management Bureau Region VIII

3. Guides from San Jose, Palo, Leyte led by Kagawad Jose Villamor Sr. 4. Guides from Palanog, Tacloban City led by, Melissa and Emelyn. 5. Engr. Mario Yale M. Sabando

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