Cementos Cibao clarifies status of RD$2,000,000 in mining royalties

Cementos Cibao has clarified that it is still holding approximately RD$2,000,000 intended for the Tamayo municipality. The funds represent the 5% legal requirement to be invested in communities impacted by gypsum mining.

Community members in Barranca had previously paralyzed gypsum extraction due to the belief that the funds had already been handed over to Mayor Juana Cristina Mateo. The company explained that the money remains with the mine concessionaire while the city council completes an internal process required to receive the payment.

In response to the allegations, Mayor Mateo defended her integrity, stating she had not received the money and expressed satisfaction with the company's clarification. The company also noted it had redirected a smaller contribution of RD$25,000 to the Santa Cecilia Cooperative after determining that direct payments should instead go through the local government.