MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Wednesday renewed his call for the passage of the proposed measure on the rationalization of the Philippine mining regime to ensure a sustainable and vibrant mining industry.
Speaking at the 2023 Philippine Mineral Industry Environmental Award (PMIEA) in Malacañan Palace, Marcos said the bill on the Rationalization of the Mining Fiscal Regime, one of his priority legislations, is ”fundamental to creating a fair and equitable mining environment for everyone involved.”
“It is equally vital for the DENR (Department of Environment and Natural Resources) to strengthen regulatory capabilities for all mining operations to ensure compliance with safety and environmental standards initiatives,” Marcos said.
The President said his administration aims to foster a deeper commitment to sustainability within industries, particularly in mining, boost local value addition through mineral processing, strengthen environmental safeguards and ensure that communities are genuine beneficiaries of the wealth generated from mining operations.
‘Outstanding mining companies’
In his message, Marcos congratulated the 13 mining company-awardees for setting the bar high in “embodying what it means to create value that extends beyond profit.”
“I encourage you to be ambassadors of responsible mining. Share your experiences and best practices, not only with your peers, but with the next generation of miners, engineers and environmentalists,” Marcos said.
“With a continued partnership amongst the government, industry and local communities, there is no doubt that the Bagong Pilipinas will emerge as a global leader in responsible mining,” he added.
The award, established by Executive Order 399, recognizes companies for their exemplary performance in environmental protection, safety and health, and social development in the mining sector.
It is the highest environmental accolade for the mineral industry, reflecting the Philippines’ government’s commitment to upholding sustainable development principles.
The awardees include Cagdianao Mining Corporation; CTP Construction and Mining Corporation; Eramen Minerals, Inc.; Hinatuan Mining Corporation – Tagana-an; FCF Minerals Corporation; Zambales Diversified Metals Corporation; Taganito Mining Corporation; and Republic Cement & Building Materials, Inc. – Batangas for the Surface Mining Operations Category.
For the Quarry Operations Category, the PMIEA was awarded to Eagle Cement Corporation; Helix Resources and Development Corporation; and Republic Cement & Building Materials, Inc. – Teresa.
The Coral Bay Nickel Corporation and the Philippine Mining Service Corporation – Alcoy Plant were also awarded in the Mineral Processing Category. (PNA)