The Mineral Economics, Information and Publications Division (MEIPD) of the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) Central Office successfully promoted responsible mining during its first stakeholders’ forum last February 1 at the Hotel Rembrandt in Quezon City.

With the theme: “MGB Stanch towards a Deeper Appreciation of Mining and its Relevance,” the assembly served as a timely venue for the exchange of ideas and information on mining; past and current successful projects of mining companies in terms of social development and best practices; MGB’s ongoing activities in the implementation of responsible mining; and a comprehensive discussion of proposed new policies in mining.

During the forum, Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Undersecretary Analiza R. Teh, reiterated that the mining industry should be people-oriented and that it should directly benefit the host communities by providing jobs and livelihood, while protecting the rights of the indigenous communities. She added that mining should protect and enhance the environment and that concern for its people and the environment should take precedence at all times. Strong enforcement and proper regulation of the industry would also be practiced.

Mining should also contribute to the national development.  “As mentioned, responsible mining should not just be for profit and financial gains of individual investors, but for the benefit of the people and the country,” Usec. Teh said. She added that the Philippine mining industry should be at par with international standards. 

Meanwhile, DENR Assistant Secretary for Mining Concerns, Nonita S. Caguioa expressed her appreciation to the MGB and the participants for sharing their knowledge and ideas during the forum. According to her, it’s a great contribution to the industry and that this would be a good start in the new policy formulation towards a sustainable mineral development.

“The knowledge and ideas that we shared are valuable contributions in our need to show significant and concrete actions to address the environmental issues being hurled against the mining sector that would in effect reverse the public perception on mining. And that would be a good start so we can have a policy requirement that is conducive to sustainable mineral resources development,” Asec. Caguioa said.

In her closing remarks, Asec. Caguioa challenged everyone to “join hands and be dedicated partners in advocating responsible mining.”

Speakers included Atty. Ronald S. Recidoro, Vice President for Legal and Policy of the Chamber of Mines of the Philippines (COMP), who discussed the Baguio Declaration; Engr. Rodolfo L. Velasco, Jr., MGB Mine Safety, Environment and Social Development Division Chief on the MGB's activities and programs and its commitment for responsible mining; Mr. Gerard H. Brimo, President of Rio Tuba Nickel Mining Corporation, who showcased the best practices and successful corporate social responsibility programs in their Rio Tuba mining operations in Bataraza, Palawan; and on behalf of Mr. Jose P. Leviste,  Mr. Bradley Norman, Country Director, OceanaGold Philippines Inc. , showcased OceanaGold PH’s best practices in processing and their successful corporate social responsibility programs as well.

• [Editor:王可]