The Mines and Geosciences Bureau has ordered the immediate stoppage to a mining company’s operation that allegedly caused the recent siltation incident along the Pintatagan River and Maputi River in the municipality of Banaybanay, Davao Oriental.

Governor Nelson Dayanghirang, who immediately called the attention of the MGB, disclosed the stoppage of the operation following the confirmation from MGB Undersecretary Atty. Wilfredo Moncano earlier today.

The MGB Central Office has already “given instruction to its regional office to issue the Stoppage Order to the company to give way to a joint detailed investigation to find out the causes and the means to mitigate the damages,” said Usec. Moncano.

On Friday, January 14, 2022, following a continuous downpour, heavy siltation occurred along Pintatagan and Maputi River, which has caused deep concern to Davao Oriental residents, especially those living near the area.

Governor Dayanghirang said that the agency has assured him that “the company will not be allowed to resume until corrective measures are done, and the appropriate sanctions are imposed.”

In an earlier incident report, the mining company says that it is “currently working on mitigation measures to control the water discoloration and siltation, as well as to enhance the environmental mitigating measures.”

While these mining companies help generate income, provide livelihoods for the locals, and help the country recover its economy, the provincial and the national government are firm on their stand not to allow these mining companies to operate recklessly and destroy the environment.

“Irresponsible mining is unacceptable as it poses serious, long-term threats to communities and waterways. The preservation and conservation of the environment should come first above everything else,” says Governor Dayanghirang. Photo Courtesy of Nieor Escaped.