In a decisive move against illegal mining activities, Governor Niño Uy has signed an executive order to intensify operations against individuals and groups involved in unauthorized mining, extraction, quarrying, and transportation of minerals and their by-products. This initiative, titled “Contra Illegalista sa Mina,” represents the provincial government’s commitment to protecting the environment and upholding legal standards in resource extraction.

Executive Order No. 17, series of 2024, mandates a comprehensive crackdown on illegal mining operations throughout the Province. It aims to penalize those who engage in unauthorized exploration and extraction of minerals, reinforcing the Province’s commitment to sustainable and legal resource management.

Governor Uy, known for his strong environmental advocacy, emphasized the detrimental impact of illegal mining on the environment and local communities.

In his recent State of the Province Address, Governor Uy emphasized his administration’s seriousness in safeguarding the environment. “Atong gipanghingusgan ang pagprotekta sa kinaiyahan. Wala kitay gi-aproba nga bag-ong mining permits sukad sa akong paglingkod isip gobernador. Kini tungod kay hugot ang akong pagtuo nga mabuhi ra ang probinsya bisan walay operasyon sa mina,” he said. (We are strengthening our efforts to protect the environment. No new mining permits have been approved under my leadership as governor because I firmly believe that the province can thrive without mining operations).

“Dugang niini, ato usab gihugtan ang sand and gravel extraction. Strikto ang atong pag-sunod sa regulasyon sanglit ang mga adunay permit lang ang adunay katungod niini nga extraction. (n addition, we are also tightening regulations on sand and gravel extraction. Our strict compliance with regulations ensures that only permit holders have the right to extraction.) We established partnerships for environmental protection, and we are happy that more and more Oriental Dabawenyos are joining our cause,” he stated.

The new order dubbed as “Contra Illegalista sa Mina”is the Governor’s clear message that the province will not tolerate such activities.

The initiative highlights several measures, including:

Whole of Nation Approach or all stakeholders within the Province from the Provincial down to the Barangay level shall be involved in the strict implementation of environmental laws.

Enhancement of apprehension capability shall be implemented by the deputation Surveillance and Monitoring: Enhanced surveillance of mining sites to detect and prevent illegal activities.

Regular joint inspection and evaluation of mining and quarrying sites.

Strict Enforcement of the rules-of-engagement guidelines in the apprehension, seizure, confiscation and disposition of illegally sourced minerals.

Public Awareness Campaigns

The order also highlights the penalties for those found guilty of illegal mining activities, including hefty fines and imprisonment. By setting these stringent measures, the provincial government aims to deter individuals and groups from engaging in unlawful practices.

As the province gears up to implement the new order, the governor calls for the cooperation of all stakeholders. “We need the support of everyone—law enforcement, local government units, and the community—to ensure the success of this initiative. Together, we can put an end to illegal mining and protect our environment for future generations,” Governor Uy urged.

The signing of the “Contra Illegalista sa Mina” executive order marks an important milestone in the province’s fight against illegal mining. In the next few days, the Provincial Government through the Environment and Natural Resources Office (ENRO) Provincial Office, will convene the involved stakeholders for the implementation of the order.

Retired Major General Leopoldo Imbang, Jr., Natural Resource Conservation and Operations Division Chief of the ENRO, said that with Governor Uy’s directives, there is renewed hope for sustainable development and the preservation of the province’s rich natural resources. PIO | Photos by JB Rain