The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has ordered the suspension of the Mineral Production Sharing Agreements (MPSAs) of three mining companies in the Masungi Georeserve in Baras, Rizal.Â
In a report by the Philippine Daily Inquirer, acting Environment Sec. Jim Sampulna suspended the MPSAs given to Rapid City Realty and Development Corporation, Quimson Limestone, Inc., and Quarry Rock Group, Inc., all of which have been non-operational since 2004.Â
Sampulna said that the suspension of the MPSAs and the removal of the companies’ authority to operate in order to remove the public’s speculations and worries.Â
He also called for support groups and environmentalists to be active in reporting illegal activities.Â
Meanwhile, DENR Mines and Geosciences Bureau Dir. Wilfredo Moncano said that its CALABARZON regional office had been ordered to investigate the alleged illegal operations within the Upper Marikina River Basin Protected Landscape.Â
The Masungi Georeserve was declared a protected area in 2018 by virtue of Republic Act 11038 or the Expanded National Integrated Protected Area Systems Act.
