Manila: The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) emphasized that responsible mining can be implemented in the Philippines under stricter government oversight, while urging small-scale miners to legalize their operations through reforms designed to simplify permitting and promote environmentally sound mining practices.
According to Philippines News Agency, Environment Secretary Juan Miguel Cuna, speaking at a media forum in Manila, highlighted that technological advancements, stronger monitoring mechanisms, and increased public scrutiny have revolutionized how mining operations are regulated, making it challenging for companies to neglect environmental regulations. "At the outset, I'll tell you responsible mining does exist," Cuna asserted.
Cuna pointed out that DENR's monitoring efforts, facilitated by its Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB), have been significantly enhanced through the use of drones and other technology. He noted that the extensive reach of social media, combined with civil society and public vigilance, allows for prompt reporting of environmental issues at mine sites.
Cuna also mentioned that many large-scale mining operations in the country are now managed by Filipino companies with reputations to uphold, particularly publicly listed firms, which face regulatory and business consequences if they fail to meet environmental standards. However, he expressed concerns about illegal small-scale mining, noting that many miners operate outside the declared "minahang bayan" areas due to challenges in the permitting process.
The "minahang bayan," established under Republic Act 7076, or the People's Small-Scale Mining Act of 1991, designates government-approved zones in the Philippines where small-scale mining can legally occur. Cuna emphasized that the DENR has introduced a mobile one-stop shop, "Permitting on Wheels," designed to bring government services directly to mining communities, assisting miners in processing permits and complying with legal requirements.
The mobile one-stop shop, involving other government agencies such as the Department of Labor and Employment and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, provides guidance to miners on legal gold trading and other requirements. Cuna encouraged miners to sell their gold through legal channels, assuring them of proper compensation and protection from arrest when dealing with the Central Bank or accredited traders.
Furthermore, the program introduces environmentally sound mining methods, including adherence to the prohibition on mercury use. In response to criticism from Alyansa Tigil Mina, a group opposed to mining, Cuna stated that the DENR remains open to engaging with such groups and invited them to participate in Multi-Partite Monitoring Teams (MMT) to monitor mining operations.
Cuna concluded by expressing respect for Alyansa Tigil Mina's concerns and emphasized the DENR's willingness to work collaboratively with them to ensure transparency in mining operations.
