Mining in Bicol, Philippines
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Mines and Geosciences Bureau (DENR-MGB) in Bicol allayed fears that large-scale mining operation in the region poses danger to host communities following tragedies that hit the cities of Cagayan de Oro and Iligan in Mindanao.
The agency said they have initiated strict monitoring measures that would see to it that environmental standards are being followed by the mining companies dismissing the negative perception of residents living in mining areas.
“Large scale mining like that of Rapu-Rapu Minerals Incorporated (RRMI) in Albay and Filminera Mining in Masbate are under strict regular monitoring by our office and they follow stringent regulations,” Luis Loyola, MGB regional director, pointed out.
Loyola said a multi-sectoral monitoring team and “third-party” mining experts also conduct regular inspection of the mining operations making sure that regulations are followed.
Buenaventura Dayao, head of MGB’s Mining Environment and Safety Division, meanwhile, said that recent inspection conducted at the Rapu-Rapu mine site showed very satisfactory results ensuring safety at the area.
“The occurrence of landslide and flooding is remote as Rapu-Rapu has a very small watershed and all run-off water flows directly to the sea while water inside the mining area is contained at the tailings pond,” Dayao explained.