President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III
has issued a new executive order aimed to strengthen the enforcement of
environmental laws on mining.
Under the EO, the government has six months to develop “a national
program and road-map, based on the Philippine Development Plan and a
National Industrialization Plan, for the development of value-adding
activities and downstream industries for strategic metallic ores.”
In the Executive Order No.79 released by Malacanang on Monday, the
Department of Environment and National Resources “shall ensure that
environmental standards in mining, as prescribed by the various mining
and environmental laws, rules, and regulations, shall be fully and
strictly enforced, and appropriate sanctions meted out against violators
thereof.”
The order also identifies areas where mining will not be allowed such
as areas under the National Tourism Development Plan, critical areas
and island eco-systems, as well as agricultural and fisheries
development zones.
According to a briefer from the office of Executive Secretary Paquito
Ochoa Jr., no new permits will be granted for mining in Palawan.
“The ecological uniqueness of Palawan’s flora and fauna and the need
to protect the same is recognized,” the Office of the Executive
Secretary said.
Although existing mining operations will be allowed to continue,
Congress must pass a law “rationalizing existing revenue sharing schemes
and mechanisms” before any new mining agreement is granted, the EO
said.
“The DENR may continue to grant and issue Exploration Permits under
existing laws, rules, and guidelines. The grantees of such permits shall
have the rights under the said laws, rules, and guidelines over the
approved exploration area,” the EO said.
Grantees of the permits will also have the first option to develop
the site as soon as Congress passes a law for revenue sharing.
