RAPU-RAPU, Albay – Lafayette Philippines Inc. is now planning to develop a half-kilometer stretch white sand beach resort on this island where they are conducting polymetallic mining operations.

Manny Agcaoili, president of the Lafayette subsidiary, Rapu-Rapu Processing Inc., said they discovered a white sand beach in Barangay Ungay.

In an interview, Agcaoili said they have already visited the area and has even swum in its waters.

He said they would first develop the area into a private resort for the employees of the mining company and then eventually open it up for the general public.

Agcaoili said they would initially be conducting clearing operations in the area to make it more conducive to swimming.

The pristine waters, sea grass beds and mangroves of Albay Gulf create an exceptionally rich fishing ground for fishermen.

Dolphins, sea turtles, egrets, and purple herons are frequently sighted in these waters. Five of the seven marine turtles in the world are found in the Albay Gulf, while the eastern coast, including Rapu Rapu, is a migration path for whale sharks.

Agcaoili said they also intend to develop a forest trail in Maypajo, another barangay in Rapu-Rapu.

He said they intend to reforest the area after mining it and eventually, return it to its original status.

Agcaoili said they have in place an entire rehabilitation plan for the area including its reforestation. Mark Ivan Roblas   – ABS-CBNnews.com

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