With small-scale mining’s vital role in the mining sector growth, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has undertaken a series of initiatives to formalize the sub-mining industry, including the creation of an association for small-scale miners.
DENR Undersecretary Carlos Primo David emphasized that these decisive actions from the agency are a reflection of their dedication to pushing responsible, inclusive, and globally competitive mining practices without compromising the small-scale miners’ welfare and rights.
The agency looks to individually register the small-scale miners, and establish an organization leading to a more formal association.
At the same time, DENR is reviewing the laws and policies governing small-scale mining and targets to modernize them for increased protection and benefit of small-scale miners, which will help ensure that there is adequate support for their operations, strengthened by concrete policies and safety protocols.
David said the community will benefit from this initiative by bringing in more jobs and livelihood, while the country benefits from the mining assets and taxes.
Moreover, a properly regulated small-scale mining industry will pave the way for effectively addressing the violation of environmental laws and mining regulations, minimizing environmental risks and promoting safety in the operations, he added.
In line with this, the DENR also introduced its Geospatial Database Office intended for monitoring mining operations and identifying illegal operators.
To provide social assistance, labor protection, and government-supported assistance programs for small-scale miners, DENR is also exploring the People’s Small-Scale Mining Act of 1991 or Republic Act 7076.
DENR also urges bigger mining firms to help in social and environmental protection efforts, protect small miners, and strengthen the mining sector’s resilience.
Meanwhile, the agency expressed its commitment to maximizing advanced technologies to enhance the rules, regulations, and standards of the mining community.
