The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), through the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB), successfully conducted a “Stakeholders’ Consultation on the Proposed Amendments to DENR Administrative Order (DAO) No. 2010-21” on January 30, 2025, at SEDA Vertis North, Quezon City. The event gathered key stakeholders from the mining industry, government agencies, local government units, media, academe, and civil society organizations to discuss the proposed streamlined procedures for processing mining permits.
The consultation aimed to refine and enhance the processing of applications for Exploration Permits, Mineral Agreements, and Financial or Technical Assistance Agreements (FTAA) through revisions to DAO No. 2010-21.
The event opened with welcome remarks from Engr. Michael V. Cabalda, DENR Assistant Secretary for Mining Concerns and concurrent MGB OIC Director, emphasizes the need for efficient and transparent regulatory processes in the mining sector.
In his address, Engr. Cabalda introduced GROWTH, a strategic framework to strengthen governance, promote resilience, foster local economic opportunities, ensure community well-being, leverage technology, and balance industry growth with environmental sustainability. He emphasized that these principles would guide the industry’s transformation into a more transparent, accountable, and globally competitive sector.
Following this, Engr. Teodorico A. Sandoval, OIC-Assistant Director of MGB, presented the objectives and rationale of the consultation, while Atty. Josephine V. Sescon, OIC-Chief of the MGB Legal Service Division, outlined the proposed amendments.
A breakout session divided the stakeholders into five key groups:
- Mining Industry
- National Government
- Local Government Units
- Media & Academe
- CSOs, NGOs, and Religious Sectors
Each sector deliberated on the proposed amendments and provided feedback, which was later presented in the Plenary Session to consolidate insights and recommendations.
Engr. Marcial H. Mateo, Chief of the Mine Safety, Environment, and Social Development Division, concluded the consultation and discussed the next steps in refining the amendments before final approval and implementation.
“Together, let’s make GROWTH a reality. Let’s transform our mining sector, not just for today, but for generations to come,” Engr. Cabalda concluded.
By: Mineral Economics, Information and Publication Division
Asec. Michael V. Cabalda delivers the welcome remarks, emphasizing the need for efficient and transparent regulatory processes in the mining sector.
Josephine V. Sescon, OIC Chief, Legal Service Division, discussing the proposed amendments on DAO No. 2010-21
Attendees listen as key topics on the proposed amendments to DAO No. 2010-21 are discussed.
Stakeholders discuss proposed amendments to DAO 2010-21 during a breakout session