The Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) was invited as one of the resource persons in the promotion of ‘responsible mining’ at Adamson University’s symposium during its 3rd Mining Engineering and Geology Association Month. The theme of the said symposium is “Transform: Mining and Climate Change Symposium.”

Engr. Rodolfo L. Velasco, Jr., Chief, Safety, Environment and Social Development Division, Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources discussed the MGB’s plans and programs as well as the documentary requirements that has to be submitted by mining companies with regard to safety and health, environmental and social development management. He stressed that in order to implement responsible mining in the country, the mining projects should be technically feasible, environmentally compliant, socially acceptable and financially viable, and any of these imperatives absent, it is not time to mine.

On the other hand, Louie R. Sarmiento, ASEAN Eng., President, Philippine Mine Safety and Environment Association (PMSEA) also graced the said event through a presentation of the heroic acts and true character of the majority of people who work in the mining industry through its Pusong Minero Program with the advocacy “A heart to serve and a heart to save lives” particularly in times of natural disasters and calamities. President Sarmiento also assures that PMSEA will continue to innovate the Student Congress every Annual Mine Safety and Environment Conference in molding the youth, especially the students, to become the future of mining industry leaders in the country.

Mr. Rodne Galicha of the Climate Change Reality Project Philippines discussed the importance of understanding the science of climate change. Also presented in the symposium are the impacts as well as the adaptation and mitigation measures in dealing with climate change in the country.

Lastly, Engr. Briccio T. Abela, Manager, Coral Bay Nickel Corporation, presented the efforts of the company in successfully rehabilitating a decommissioned old tailings storage facility into a productive and functional ecosystem.

The symposium was held on January 30, 2017 in Ermita, Manila and was organized by Adamson University Mining Engineering and Geology Students’ Association.
Representatives from the government, private organization, non-government organizations and the mining industry were among the presenters during the said event.

By: Mine Safety, Environment and Social Development Division

Engr. Rodolfo L. Velasco Jr., MGB MSESDD Chief, highlighting the elements of responsible mining.

PMSEA President Louie R. Sarmiento presenting the efforts of the mining companies in the country.

Mr. Rodne Galicha of the Climate Change Reality Project Philippines.

Mr. Engr. Briccio T. Abela of the Coral Bay Nickel Corporation.