Lopez to observe due process on mine decision

Environment Secretary Gina Lopez will observe due process in relation to her mine closure and suspension orders like what she's been told but she stood firm on her decision that the 28 miners involved in the issue must either be shut down or suspended.

She also assured that there will be no re-audit in the mining sector even if the Mining Industry Coordinating Council (MICC) recently released a memorandum wherein it was vaguely mentioned that there will be another review on the mining companies' performance.

"(We will observe) the due process that is mandated in the law. I have followed it and I will continue to follow it," Lopez told Business Bulletin.

This, after Presidential spokesman Ernesto Abella said on Wednesday that President Rodrigo Duterte and his Cabinet have "collectively" decided to observe due process in dealing with the mining issues.

After that, MICC, which is cochaired by Lopez and Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez, convened and came up with a one-page resolution.

"Pursuant to EO (Executive Order) 79, the MICC shall create a multi-stakeholder to review and advise the DENR on the performance of existing mining operations in consultants with local government units," the resolution reads.

"The review shall be based on the guidelines and parameters set forth in the specific mining contract and in other pertinent laws, taking into account the valid exercise of the State's police power to serve the common good, especially the poor," it added.

When asked for clarification if this means there will be another audit, Lopez said in a text message: ''No there is absolutely no (re-audit). There's no need for it".

"The MICC is recommendatory," she added. "I still make the decisions and I have already made my decision... They can do another review and find out other things and suggest other ways moving forward. But my stand on mining in watersheds stands. It is backed by law."

Chamber of Mines of the Philippines (COMP) chairman Art Disini, on the other hand, said the move of the MICC to conduct another review will certainly give the mines for closure or suspension the opportunity to address the allegations hurled at them.

He said that this also means these mines will remain operational and relieve the fears of our communities and employees.