The Mineral Economics, Information and Publication Division of the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) Central Office, recently conducted a Stakeholders’ Forum last July 12, 2019 at Sulo Riviera Hotel, with the theme “Understanding New Policy Issuances on Mining and Best Practices in Mining.” It was attended by representatives from government agencies, mining companies, students, academes, media, and non-government organizations .
The said forum is an annual event being held as part of MGB’s drive to promote responsible mining in the country. Specifically, it was intended to enhance the awareness of mining stakeholders on responsible mining practices and recent policies on mining.
MGB Acting Director Wilfredo G. Moncano gave the welcome remarks. He urged everyone to participate not only during the forum, but also in reaching sustainable development in the mining industry.
Together with Director Moncano were Engr. Larry M. Heradez, Chief, Mining Tenements and Management Division, MGB; Atty. Maria Karla L. Espinosa, National Coordinator, Philippine Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (PH-EITI); Engr. Rodolfo L. Velasco, Chief, Mining Safety Environment and Social Development Division, MGB; Engr. Teoderico A. Sandoval, Chief, Mining Technology Division, MGB; Atty. Josephine V. Sescon, Chief, Legal Service Division, MGB; and Mr. Jose Bayani D. Baylon, Vice President - Corporate Communications, Nickel Asia Corporation, who served as resource speakers during the event.
The topics that were presented are the following:
- Policy Issuances on Mining Tenements;
- Updates on EITI;
- Mining Environment, Safety and Health, and Social Development Commitment in Mining Operation;
- Small Scale Mining in the Philippines;
- Mining Law Enforcement; and
- Best Practices in Mining.
In his closing remarks, Engr. Velasco reiterated the importance of working together to promote responsible mining in order to attain better lives for the present and future generations.
By: Mineral Economics, Information and Publication Division
Photo 1: MGB Acting Director Wilfredo G. Moncano delivering his Welcome Remarks during the Forum.
Photo 2: Engr. Larry M. Heradez and Atty. Maria Karla L. Espinosa during the Open Forum.
Photo 3: Engr. Rodolfo L. Velasco, Engr. Teodorico A. Sandoval, Atty. Josephine V. Sescon and Mr. Jose Bayani D. Baylon during the Open Forum.