Recognizing the pressing environmental concerns facing the province, the Provincial Government, under the supervision of the Provincial Mining Regulatory Board, pledged to heighten monitoring efforts. This initiative, spearheaded by the Environment and Natural Resources Office (ENRO), seeks to champion responsible extraction practices and enforce compliance with PMRB regulations. The overarching goal is to curb unauthorized extraction and mitigate illegal mining activities across the province.
During the PMRB’s first quarterly meeting on February 22, 2024, at the Provincial Capitol, it was emphasized that sand and gravel permittees must bear full responsibility and accountability for any damages incurred. This includes the imperative of rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts aimed at fostering a more resilient and responsible mining sector—one that concurrently bolsters the economy while safeguarding the environment.
Chaired by the OIC-Regional Director of the Department of Environmental and Natural Resources-Mines and Geosciences Bureau (DENR-MGB), Geol. Beverly Mae M. Brebante, the PMRB discussed the progress of the Commercial Sand and Gravel (CSAG) applications on the conditionally endorsed, pending, and Status Quo CSAG applications to thoroughly and carefully review the status, issues and concerns, undertakings, and actions taken on the application process of the permittees. This was presented by Retired Major General Leopoldo Imbang, Jr., Head of the PMRB Secretariat.
Governor Niño Sotero L. Uy, Jr. reiterated his unwavering commitment to upholding the highest standards of sustainability and regulatory compliance within the mining sector. Recognizing the delicate balance between environmental preservation and economic advancement, Governor Uy emphasized the importance of stringent implementation and monitoring of commercial sand and gravel operations throughout Davao Oriental. He called upon all stakeholders to rally behind these measures in the interest of sustainable development and environmental stewardship. By Nelton Abing | Photos by JB Rain
