Despite the prevailing coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, the Department of Natural Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) said it surpassed its target in terms of issuing closure orders and mining permits and contracts to erring establishments this year.
In a statement Thursday, Dec. 30, the DENR said that its Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) issued 144 cease and desist orders (CDOs) against violators of Republic Act 7942 or the Philippine Mining Act of 1995.
This saw an increase of about 240 percent from the original annual target of 59 CDOs.
The DENR-MGB has also exceeded its target on the issuance of mining permits and contracts this year with a total of 4,526 agreements/contracts/permits, ore transport permit/certification, declaration of mining project feasibility, and other mining-related permits.
"With the unwavering support from the President, we were able to achieve this significant accomplishment for the year despite the challenges that the pandemic has brought to the mining sector," said DENR Secretary Roy Cimatu.
The DENR Chief said the accomplishments were manifestations of the "strengthened responsible mining campaign of the Department."
"In our heightened campaign for responsible mining in the country, we are proud of our milestone in cracking down illegal and irresponsible use of our mining resources and areas beyond the target we have set," Cimatu said.
"On the other hand, the increase in the issuance of mining permits/contracts will compel mining companies and entities to abide by environmental laws, policies, and regulations, thus, making our mining sector more responsible," he added.