Duterte lifts ban on new mining projects to ignite PH economy

By Prince Golez

President Rodrigo Duterte has signed an executive order (EO) lifting the moratorium on new mining projects imposed during the Aquino administration.

EO No. 130, issued by Duterte on April 14, 2021, allows the government to enter into new mineral agreements in accordance with existing laws, rules and regulations.

“The government, through the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), has conducted a thorough review of the regulatory framework of the mining industry and has in place additional rules, regulations, and policies providing for and enhancing environmental safeguards to ensure that mining operations observe environmental protection,” the Chief Executive said.

Duterte also cited the contribution of the mining industry in the provision of raw materials for the construction and development of industries and job opportunities in remote rural areas.

The EO directed the DENR to continue to grant and issue Exploration permits and formulate the terms and conditions in the new mineral agreements.

“The grantees of such permits shall have the rights under the said laws, rules and guidelines over the approved exploration area and shall be given the right of first option to develop and utilize the minerals in their respective exploration area upon the approval of the declaration of mining project feasibility,” it stated.

The DENR must also undertake a review of existing mining contracts and agreements for possible renegotiation of the terms and conditions that are mutually acceptable to the government and the mining contractor.

Also, the DENR and the Department of Finance should undertake appropriate measures to rationalize existing revenue sharing schemes and mechanisms.

Section 2 of EO 130 provides for the formulation and strict implementation of mines safety and environmental policies.

“The DENR shall strictly implement mines safety and environmental policies… (and) ensure strict implementation of and compliance with the recommended measures of the Mining Industry Coordinating Council involving all mining operations, including other pertinent laws, rules, and regulations, and the terms and conditions of the mineral agreements,” the latest directive also read.

In 2012, former President Benigno Aquino III signed EO 79 institutionalizing and implementing reforms in the mining sector and providing policies and guidelines to ensure environmental protection and responsible mining in the utilization of mineral resources.

The same order prohibited the grant of mineral agreements until a new legislation rationalizing existing revenue sharing schemes and mechanisms have taken effect.

Source: Latest Politics News Today (Politics.com.ph)