Duterte warns mining firms: Plant trees or face closure

DAVAO CITY — President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday gave mining companies six months to grow trees in their areas of operation or he would order their closure.

“The mining (companies), I’m giving (you) six months from now. Six months. I do not want to see bald (mountains). In the areas you have mined, I want to see trees as tall as me in six months. If I don’t see any in the area you destroyed, consider your permit revoked,” he said.

The President said he was issuing the warning now so the mining firms would have time to plant.

“Do not wait for the day of your sorrow. I do not want to see any bald piece of land there. If there (are no trees, you) will be closed permanently,” he added.

The President said he was also considering banning open-pit mining next year. —Allan Nawal