DENR move to lift ban on open-pit mining backed

THE Department of Finance (DOF) has expressed its support behind the recent decision of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to lift the ban on open-pit mining as it voiced full confidence in the government’s capability to strictly regulate mining operations to address and minimize the impact posed by these extractive activities on the environment.

In backing the DENR’s of 1995 does not prohibit decision, Finance Secretary open-pit mining as there are Carlos Dominguez III economic, safety, and environmental pointed out that Republic considerations Act (RA) No. 7942 or for employing this method. the Philippine Mining Act “As co-chair of the

Mining Industry Coordinating Council (MICC), I support DENR Secretary Roy Cimatu's decision to lift the ban on open-pit mining. The matter was extensively discussed in the MICC and with advice and guidance from experts, the recommendation was to lift the ban. Adequate safeguards can be implemented to ensure the safety of this mining method. Strict monitoring and enforcement to ensure compliance with environmental standards shall be undertaken to prevent any abuse in the implementation of this type of mining activity,” Dominguez said.

“I am confident that the DENR is fully capable of regulating mining operations in the country so that mining activities are conducted safely with due regard to the protection of the environment,” he added.

As the official representative of the President to the Climate Change Commission (CCC), Dominguez said he is mindful of the impact of mining activities on the environment and the country’s goal to significantly reduce its carbon footprint.

“The protection of the environment is non-negotiable. We have to strike a careful balance between preserving and protecting the environment and pursuing our economic development objectives,” Dominguez said.

Dominguez said that