10 mining programs renewed
Regulators have allowed 10 companies to continue mineral exploration work with drilling and environmental expenditures expected to come up to P426.95 million, Environment Secretary Ramon J.P. Paje said in a phone interview.
However, he was quick to note that these are existing exploration programs and the government has not issued any new mining permits.
“We remain consistent with our moratorium on permits,” Paje said.
The renewals covered the projects of the following: Cessmag Development Inc. in Misamis Oriental; Coolabah Mining Corp. in Nueva Vizcaya; Cordillera Exploration Company Inc. in Abra; Egerton Gold Philippines Inc. in Batangas; Masbate 10 Philippines Inc. in Masbate; Mineral Treasures Mining Corp. in Zambales; Pacific Metals Canada Philippines Inc. in Tacloban City and Leyte; Red Earth Mining Corp. in Nueva Vizcaya; Sagittarius Mines Inc. in South Cotabato, Davao del Sur and Sultan Kudarat; and UP Mines Inc. in Southern Leyte.
MGB director Leo L. Jasareno confirmed via text message that the renewal means that the 10 are allowed to resume drilling and environmental activities.
“This is in response to the pronouncement made by DENR Secretary Ramon J. P. Paje that the MGB can resume renewing exploration permits (EPs) following the upbeat result of the Mining Philippines 2011 Conference held last Sept. 13-15 at the Sofitel Philippine Plaza Hotel in Pasay City,” MGB said.
