Environment Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga during a press briefing in Malacañang in this file photo taken on August 2, 2023. INQUIRER.net / RYAN LEAGOGO
MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) said it had “limited” manpower to oversee all mining sites in the country and enjoined local government units (LGUs) to help in monitoring.
“There are so many small-scale mining operations that are actually very damaging to the environment. LGUs, their cooperation is needed as well as that of the public and the media. They need to report these so that the DENR can investigate because DENR personnel are limited,” Assistant Secretary Rochelle Gamboa said in mix of Filipino and English during a news forum on Saturday.
Gamboa added that the department was considering additional requirements for mining permits so that LGUs and the National Greening Program can ensure operations are compliant with environmental laws.
“The mayor cannot just give a permit on a whim. There are proper reviews and studies for every project. This is a tough job since there are many areas for small-scale mining in the Philippines and DENR can’t do it alone. We need the help and cooperation as well of local government units,” Gamboa added in a mix of Filipino and English.
READ: 11 Chinese nationals arrested for illegal mining in Camarines Norte
Last Wednesday, Environment Secretary Ma. Antonio Yulo-Loyzaga raised alarm over illegal small-scale mining operations in Camarines Norte province run by Chinese nationals posing as tourists and permitted by local authorities.
READ: DENR confirms Chinese presence in illegal mining
This followed the arrest of 11 Chinese nationals allegedly involved in the illegal construction of a mineral processing plant in Parcale, a coastal town in Camarines Norte province known for small-scale gold mining.