BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
SOME landowners in the G24 and G25 mining tenements on San Jorge Island have raised concerns over the distribution of benefit payments from Far East Resources Mining Company, claiming that the funds have not reached the rightful landowners.
A number of land trustees from the two tenements alleged that they did not receive any share of recent payments made by the mining company and questioned the role of the San Jorge Island Landowners Association (SJILA) in administering the funds.
The landowners claimed the association failed to properly recognize the legitimate landowners of the tenements and instead directed benefits to a selected group of individuals.
“We have been waiting for our shares for ages,” one landowner, who requested anonymity, said.
“What we do not understand is how the association is leading an organisation that is supposed to represent all landowners.
“This is insane and some of us are serious about addressing these challenges by taking the matter to court if nothing is done,” he added.
The concerns emerged following announcements that Far East Resources had made a series of payments during the second quarter of 2026 as part of its commitments to landowners and the Isabel Provincial Government.
According to information released by the company, Far East Resources paid SBD100,000 in surface access fees for the quarter, disbursed more than SBD60,000 in compensation, and allocated SBD100,000 for community development assistance.
The company also delivered SBD1.25 million in quarterly payments to the Isabel Provincial Government.
Far East Resources stated that it has maintained its financial obligations and remains one of the few mining operators consistently meeting its commitments.
The San Jorge Island Landowners Association confirmed receiving the payments on behalf of landowners and said it would oversee the disbursement process to ensure the funds are distributed appropriately.
Association representatives welcomed the payments, describing them as a significant benefit for communities on San Jorge.
“These payments are a welcome relief for our people. It shows that when agreements are honoured, both the landowners and the wider province benefit. We will ensure the funds are used responsibly for the good of San Jorge,” an association representative said.
However, dissatisfied landowners insist that transparency and accountability are needed in the distribution process and are calling on the association to explain how beneficiaries are identified and payments allocated.
The dispute highlights ongoing concerns surrounding benefit-sharing arrangements in resource development projects, with affected landowners demanding greater inclusion in decisions that directly affect their rights and entitlements.
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