Alina Villareal – Shredding Specialist

In 2018, Alina Villarreal joined Cobre Panama as a crushing specialist with no previous mining experience. However, the company was committed to providing her with comprehensive training, turning her inexperience into valuable knowledge. Alina felt fortunate to be part of a team that not only valued professional development, but also believed in the growth of its employees. In its early days, the shredding department had between 70 and 80 people, a diverse group that included workers from different regions of the country: Colonenses, Chiricanos and Bocatoreños, all united by a common goal.

The mine not only represented a source of employment, but also became an engine of development for the community of Donoso and the surrounding area. Mining activity brought an increase in the local economy, with a constant flow of people passing through the area, which helped decentralize economic activity and improve the quality of life of the inhabitants. However, on November 28, 2023, the reality changed drastically. The news of the mine’s closure shocked everyone, and the atmosphere of optimism turned to uncertainty. Alina, along with her colleagues, was forced to face a new reality: from a team of 70 to 80 people, only about 12 were left to manage the plant’s preservation in the crushing area. The reduction in personnel not only affected the workers, but also had a ripple effect on the community.

All these people returned to their homes, where they come from, and unemployment came to this area.

Most of the employees who had come from different parts of the country, and who lost their jobs, had to return home. Unemployment skyrocketed in the area, and many families who had previously depended on the mine’s wages found themselves in a precarious situation. Alina watched as the community, which had flourished because of the mining activity, began to crumble. The impact of the closure was profound. People who had worked hard to support their families now faced the harsh reality of finding employment in a country where opportunities were scarce. Migration to the capital city became an option for many, but the capital is already saturated, and the arrival of more people only exacerbates the situation. Alina worries about her fellow workers and the community at large.

What do people do? They migrate back to the capital city, and the capital can’t fit another soul.

Alina’s story, and her experience at Cobre Panama, is a reflection of the struggle of many people who saw their lives transformed by mining. The company not only offered them a job, but also the chance to grow and develop in an environment that valued their efforts. However, the closure of the mine left many in a vulnerable situation, and the community of Donoso was forced to face the consequences of a decision that affected thousands of lives. Despite the adversity, Alina remains steadfast in her belief that responsible mining is possible. She knows that the company has worked hard to implement sustainable practices and minimize its environmental impact. However, misinformation and lack of communication about the mine’s activities have contributed to the negative perception that exists in some parts of the community. Despite the challenges she faces, Alina continues to believe in the potential of her community and the possibility of a better future. Mining, when done responsibly, can be an engine of development and well-being for local communities. However, it is critical that steps are taken to ensure that the voices of workers and communities are heard and that people’s well-being is prioritized.