Intex welcomes new mine rules

MANILA, Philippines—The new mining policy of President Benigno Aquino was welcomed recently by mining firm Mindoro Nickel.

In a statement, Norway-based Intex Resources ASA said the new policy was a major step toward responsible use of mineral resources without sacrificing the environment.

Intex said it has been advocating the same principles that the new mining policy outlined.

It said the company has been avoiding selective high-grade mining that leaves behind lower grade ore.

The statement said the firm plans to process ore in a local refinery to produce high-grade nickel.

However, both Oriental and Occidental Mindoro provinces have separately issued a moratorium banning large-scale mining on the island.