Manila: The Mines and Geosciences Bureau in the Cordillera Administrative Region: has reiterated its directive to suspend all small-scale mining activities due to ongoing inclement weather conditions. In a social media post, the bureau strongly advised all small-scale miners to immediately cease operations and evacuate to safer locations because of the hazards posed by the current weather situation. The bureau emphasized that safety is the top priority and urged the public to stay vigilant and adhere to local advisories.

According to Philippines News Agency, the warning from the Mines and Geosciences Bureau follows a recent landslide in Sitio Acupan, Itogon, Benguet, which occurred on Friday morning. The landslide caused damage to the community's hanging bridge and posed a threat to the safety of residents. This incident comes on the heels of a previous landslide in the same area last week, which resulted in the deaths of three individuals and affected 44 families. The area is recognized as a small-scale mining zone, where saturated soil has heightened the risk of landslides.

MGB-CAR Director Socrates Gaerlan has previously issued advisories urging miners to vacate tunnels and relocate from their shanties to more secure areas. He highlighted the significant risk of serious accidents or fatalities if the directives are not followed. Director Gaerlan has also appealed to local government units to assist in enforcing the suspension of mining activities, emphasizing the importance of coordinated efforts to ensure public safety.

According to the weather bureau, the Cordillera provinces continue to face risks of flash floods and landslides due to the southwest monsoon. The ongoing adverse weather conditions underscore the urgency of the MGB's directive to halt mining operations and prioritize the safety of the affected communities.