The Palawan Council for Sustainable Development (PCSD) will begin the first phase of its carrying capacity study on mining operations in southern Palawan by the second quarter of 2025.
Philippine Information Agency reported that the study, conducted by the University of the Philippines-Los Baños School of Environmental Science and Management (UPLB-SESAM), aims to determine the environmental limits of mining in the province.
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Mines and Geosciences Bureau (DENR-MGB) allocated Php 5 million for the initial phase, which will focus on the environmental impact of mining in Brooke’s Point, one of the most affected areas.
The first phase will run for eight months, assessing soil conditions and identifying areas still viable for mining operations.
PCSD previously estimated that a full-scale study would require at least Php 20 million and could span four phases over several years.
PCSD spokesperson Jovic Fabello said the study will provide scientific data to guide policymakers in implementing the mining moratorium and formulating regulations.
The council stressed the importance of inter-agency cooperation in facilitating the study, which will be crucial as Palawan considers a 25-year moratorium on new mining applications.
Past carrying capacity studies in Palawan have primarily focused on tourism sites like the Puerto Princesa Underground River. This marks the first major scientific assessment of mining’s long-term impact in the province.
PCSD also plans to extend the research to non-metallic mineral quarries across Palawan’s municipalities.
The council expects to secure additional funding, including Php 15 million from the provincial government, to complete the study over the next four to five years.
Fabello emphasized that the study will not only shape mining policies but also contribute vital data for disaster risk management and environmental conservation efforts in Palawan.
