Manila: The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has issued a new directive mandating mining companies to strengthen their community development programs while addressing biodiversity loss. The administrative order issued by DENR Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo Loyzaga specifically mandates the mining sector to align the United Nations' 17 Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) into their Social Development and Management Programs (SDMPs).
According to Philippines News Agency, this move aims to enhance the well-being of host communities while ensuring stronger environmental safeguards. Loyzaga stated that the directive supports President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s vision of utilizing the country's natural resources for inclusive and sustainable development. The goal is to ensure that the wealth generated from mineral extraction is shared equitably, ecosystems are protected, and local communities gain empowerment.
The SDMP is a five-year comprehensive plan required from mining companies for the sustained improvement of the living standards of their host and neighboring communities. The 17-point UN SDGs include goals such as no poverty, zero hunger, good health and well-being, quality education, gender equality, and climate action, among others. All UN member states adopted these interlinked goals in 2015, and they serve as a global blueprint to end extreme poverty, reduce inequality, and protect the planet by 2030.
The new administrative order emphasizes the inclusion of programs that enhance biodiversity conservation, protection, and institutionalize climate action within host and impact communities. The SDMP allocation is directed towards the host communities of mining projects and is utilized by local government units (LGUs) in the form of community development projects. Specifically, 10 percent is reserved for information, education, and communication efforts; 15 percent for the advancement of mining technology and geosciences; and 75 percent for projects implemented by the LGUs, such as roads, water supply, health centers, school buildings, scholarships, and livelihood projects.
Loyzaga highlighted the importance of incorporating biodiversity conservation, climate action, labor rights, gender equity, and social services into community programs. The focus is also on reforestation, rehabilitation, and ecosystem restoration to address biodiversity loss. Under Republic Act 7942 or the Philippine Mining Act, mining firms must allocate 1.5 percent of their operating expenses to SDMPs, with funding directed toward education, technology advancement, and essential infrastructure. From 2002 to 2027, SDMP commitments are projected to reach PHP28 billion, with PHP17.7 billion allotted from 2002 to 2022 on livelihood programs, scholarships, medical aid, and public works.
