A Stakeholders Forum or Mining Summit for Local Chief Executives (LCEs) will take place in Cebu next week. This summit aims to have a better understanding on the important role local government units play in the implementation of mining laws.
The Mining Summit is set on September 24 with the bulk of the invited participants composed of mayors from the different towns and cities of Cebu and other stakeholders in the mining sector.
Roger de Dios, vice-chair of the Regional Minerals Development Council (RMDC) and officer-in-charge of the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR-7) bared local government units (LGUs) need to know their regulatory powers and exercise these under the mining laws as well as other related rules particularly as the functions of the DENR has already been devolved to the LGUs.
Among the topics to be tackled in the mining summit include the Philippine Mining Regulatory Framework, Situationer of Mining in Cebu, Mineral Endowments in Cebu, Role of LGUs in the Implementation of Mining Laws, Rules and Regulations, and Deputation & Apprehension Procedures.
A major highlight during the summit will be the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement among the DENR-7, DENR-MGB 7, Armed Forces of the Philippines – Central Command, Philippine National Police -7 and the National Bureau of Investigation -7 that will compose the Multi-Sectoral Task Force to enhance the law enforcement capability in pursuing a more vigorous campaign against environmental laws violations particularly on illegal mining and quarrying operations. (PIA/FCR)
