Manila: The John Hay Management Corporation (JHMC) and Philex Mining Corporation (PMC) have renewed their commitment to the Environment Management Bureau (EMB) to uphold higher air quality standards within their operational areas. The two organizations formalized their pledge through a memorandum of agreement (MOA) during the opening ceremony of the 9th Cordillera Environment Summit.
According to Philippines News Agency, the agreement focuses on the implementation of the Adopt-A-Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Station initiative. JHMC President and CEO Manjit Singh Reandi emphasized the importance of proactive monitoring to quickly address any deterioration in air quality. "We need to monitor so that we know if the quality is rising or still improving, so if there is any issue, we know how to clean it immediately," Reandi stated on the sidelines of the MOA signing.
JHMC, a subsidiary of the government-owned Bases Conversion and Development Authority, aims to maintain high air quality standards while promoting environmental protection programs. Reandi highlighted the significance of nature conservation and reforestation efforts in ensuring quality air.
The agreement stipulates the provision of monitoring stations, data collection, and reporting to ensure air quality meets or exceeds acceptable standards. PMC's environment officer, Rowena Blanco, noted that the company has been vigilant in monitoring air quality since before their initial agreement with EMB in 2018.
Blanco stated that PMC, as a mining company, is committed to compliance with ambient air quality standards, viewing it as both a regulatory requirement and a corporate responsibility. PMC provides the necessary monitoring equipment and submits regular data reports to EMB. This data is also utilized by the local governments of Tuba and Itogon.
In addition to air quality monitoring, PMC ensures their equipment is properly calibrated and equipped with dust collectors. The company also engages in ongoing reforestation activities, covering more than 50 hectares, as part of its environmental contribution.
