[Iloilo City] – The Mines and Geosciences Bureau Regional Office VI (MGB VI) conducted a stakeholders’ forum tackling mining regulations and geologic hazards on June 19, 2024 at Diversion 21 Hotel in Iloilo City. The forum was organized in line with the celebration of Environment Month to strengthen partnerships with the private sector in achieving development goals and corporate social responsibility. It was attended by accredited traders, dealers, and retailers operating in Panay and Guimaras.
MGB VI OIC Regional Director Cecilia L. Ochavo-Saycon welcomed the participants and highlighted the vital role of the business sector as partners in achieving the country’s development goals and environmentally and socially responsible business practices. She encouraged their active participation in the forum to maximize the opportunity to learn more about government laws and regulations on accreditation for them to be properly guided and improve their compliance.
Resource speakers from MGB VI tackled specific topics such as the mining law and its implementing rules and regulations and MGB Memorandum Circular 2018-01 or the “Guidelines in the Conduct of Apprehension, Seizure, Confiscation and Disposition of Illegally Sourced Minerals/Mineral Products and By-Products, Tools, Conveyances and Equipment Used” by Atty. R’Jay L. Pestaño. Engr. Kimberly A. Villa, chief of the Monitoring and Technical Services Section, discussed the mining tenements issued by DENR, MGB, zeroing in on the requirements, application and renewal process, and reportorial requirements. Engr. Ethywyne Paran presented the common issues and how to improve compliance of accreditation proponents. During the open forum, the participants asked for clarifications on specific concerns regarding their accreditation. A common understanding of the role of MGB and proponents in avoiding violations and penalties was established, and the need for cooperation and communication was recognized.
Ms. Mae M. Magarzo, chief of the Geosciences Division gave a lecture on understanding geologic hazards underscoring the need for increased awareness and preparedness in line with the government’s disaster risk reduction and management policies and programs. MGB VI, DENR continuously conducts information dissemination on potential geologic hazards communities face, particularly rain-induced landslides and floods as identified and located in the geohazards maps. With the onset of the rainy season and the impending threat of la Niña, Ms. Magarzo said advisories and warnings from concerned government agencies must be heeded. (MGB VI)
