President Rodrigo Roa Duterte listens to the updates on the aftermath of Typhoon ‘Ompong’ during a situation briefing with the members of his cabinet and local government officials held at the Provincial Capitol in La Trinidad, Benguet on September 17, 2018. ROBINSON NIÑAL JR./PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines – President Rodrigo Duterte said he is determined to completely stop mining operations in the country within his term.
However, he admitted that to do it, the Congress must repeal the Mining Act first.
“We have to… If we cannot end mining because there’s a law, to end mining…Congress will have to abrogate the law. Me, I think that we would need a rest — a respite, period of inactivity diyan sa soil, and even the watershed,” the President said.
On Monday, September 18, Environment Secretary Roy Cimatu ordered the stoppage of all operations of small-scale mining industry in the entire Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) after a massive landslide in Barangay Ucab, Itogon, Benguet killed more than 50 lives.
However, it is not clear as to when the directive will take effect.
The government is also not sure if it can even totally stop illegal mining activities in the country.
“The president has already insinuated yesterday. But of course, as I said, the delicate balance between the economics of mining and the police power of the state to protect the lives, and the environment of the state,” Roque said.
While small-scale mining is suspended in CAR, the local government and concerned agencies should now help in the rehabilitation of typhoon-affected areas. – Marje Pelayo (with reports from Rosalie Coz)
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