MGB XII Sounds Alarm on Illegal Mining in Tampakan
Tampakan, South Cotabato – With rising concerns over environmental degradation and public health risks, the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) Region XII is ramping up its fight against illegal mining and the hazardous use of mercury in gold extraction.
On March 20, 2025, MGB XII, in collaboration with the Soccsksargen Responsible Miners Association (SRMA), the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) XII, and the Barangay Local Government Unit (BLGU) of Pula Bato, conducted an Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) campaign in Barangay Pula Bato, Tampakan. The campaign sought to highlight the dangers of banlas mining—a prohibited gold extraction method that utilizes mercury.
The practice of banlas mining not only violates mining regulations but also poses a serious threat to the environment and human health. Mercury exposure, particularly in small-scale mining areas, has been linked to severe neurological damage and long-term environmental contamination.
“Improper mining methods contribute to land degradation, water pollution, and long-term ecological damage,” said Mr. Willie V. Loyola, Senior Environmental Management Specialist of EMB XII, as he detailed the environmental impacts during the event.
Dr. Arturo Albesa, a private medical practitioner, warned participants about the health consequences of mercury exposure, noting that it can cause “neurological damage, respiratory issues, and long-term environmental contamination.”
The event drew 75 participants who engaged in discussions and received educational materials on mining laws, environmental impacts, and health risks. According to Engr. Daryle Jade Nesperos of MGB XII, compliance with legal mining practices is crucial to ensuring sustainable development.
The bureau stressed the importance of cooperation from local government units (LGUs) in monitoring and curbing illegal mining activities. “Recognizing the importance of responsible mining, the bureau continues to encourage cooperation among all stakeholders to promote sustainable and legal mining practices for the benefit of both the environment and local communities,” MGB XII stated.
The interactive forum allowed residents to express concerns and seek clarifications, underscoring the need for stronger enforcement and public engagement to combat illegal mining effectively.
MGB XII has pledged to continue raising public awareness and to work closely with LGUs to implement stricter monitoring mechanisms against illegal mining in the region.
Do you think community-led initiatives or stricter enforcement is the key to stopping illegal mining in Tampakan? Share your thoughts below.
