TAGUIG CITY - The Department of Energy (DOE), yesterday (2 October) launched an investigation on the mudslide incident at Semirara Mining and Power Corporation's Facility in Antique, which resulted to one missing employee. 

Based on the aerial and ground inspections of the DOE's technical team, the presence of mudflow was confirmed at the location of the incident.  

According to the mining firm's initial report to the Department, regular mining operations were ongoing with heavy machinery, PS27, working on the drainage canal at the Molave Pit of the site's South Wall, when an irregularity was supposedly detected at 1:00 AM. The mudslide occurred five minutes thereafter, at 1:05 AM, hitting the PS27 equipment and its operator. 

DOE Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi said, "The DOE is sending its heartfelt prayers to all who were affected by the incident. We are also continuing to pray for the safety of the personnel involved in the search and rescue operations. We are thoroughly investigating the matter to determine the cause of the incident, and ensure that all all safety standards and protocols were strictly upheld. Semirara Mining and Power Corporation has assured us of their full cooperation as we carefully look into this incident."

The DOE will continue to issue updates on the ongoing investigation. 

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