The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has expressed its support for the continued suspension of mining, quarrying, and other extractive operations in Bulacan since it will help ensure the safety of affected communities.
It said Bulacan Gov. Daniel Fernando issued the ban last Aug. 16 after illegal mining and quarrying activities were discovered in the province.
It pointed out that the ban was also important especially after the onslaught of Super Typhoon Karding last September which left five rescuers dead due to flash floods.
"This devastating incident underscores the tragic consequence of environmental abuse notwithstanding the damages it can bring to the livelihood, shelter, and general well-being of affected families and communities," the CHR said in a statement.
With the ban, the CHR said that the province of Bulacan is upholding the right to a healthy environment and gives primacy to the safety and welfare of the people.
"The Commission cites the resolve of the provincial government of Bulacan led by Gov. Fernando and the Bulacan Environment and Natural Resources Office (BENRO) to tackle illegal mining and quarrying in their province," the CHR said.
"Considering the serious implications of mining to the environment compounded by the regular onslaught of typhoons in our country, we reiterate our reminder to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the interagency body cited in the Executive Order No. 79, s. 2012, to implement and operationalize the mining policies," it added.
In particular, the CHR said that the DENR should uphold its mandate to provide mechanisms and clear guidelines to monitor human rights and labor rights violations; develop operational linkages with concerned government agencies, particularly CHR and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE); assist victims of violations of mining policies; and take appropriate action against violators.
It is the hope of the CHR for the national government and local government units will follow the move of Bulacan to defend and protect the environment to ensure the long-term welfare of people.
The CHR, its part, will continue to be firm in monitoring and calling for the faithful implementation of relevant laws on environmental protection, it added.
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