Homonhon Chromite Loading, July 1, 2007

The otherwise creamy beaches of Kangkimpong in Homonhon Island have turned rust-colored with mine run-off from chromite open pits in the nearby mountains.

This video shows raw chromite being readied for export. Tractors scooped black piles of chromite onto the backs of trucks, which loaded a barge. The barge sailed to transfer its cargo to a ship moored in the distance. (On this day it is the Zephyr Panama.) The barge then shuttled back to the pier to receive more truck loads. Residents say that as soon as the loading is done, the ships would be off to Japan.

The mining company uses its wash fan to let water flow downhill to separate black chromite from other soil particles. The process results in a red carpet of silt on the beach.

The silt extends over fish spawning grounds near the shore. Local fisherfolk also fear that, because the insides of fish caught near this area are as discolored as the beach, they may be unsafe to eat. Local subsistence fisherfolk say they need to sail farther for a decent catch. This raises their fuel costs and drives down their incomes.

On bad days, the fresh spring water gets an unmistakable tint and flavor, too, and residents say they have to go elsewhere for a safe drink.