by Claro A. Lanipa
Pagadian City, April 18 (PIA) – Since illegal mining activities in the region have become rampant and alarming as it has not only depleted government mineral resources but caused unnecessary violence in affected areas resulting to loss of people’s lives.
Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) IX OIC, Regional Director Albert Johann Jacildo issued a cease and desist order dated April 13, 2012 for the stoppage of all forms of illegal mining activities in the region.
The order covers small-scale mining operations without requisite of People’s Small-Scale Mining Contract in violation of Section 8, of Republic Act (RA) 7076 otherwise known as the People’s Small-Scale Mining Act of 1991; and Carbon-in-Pulp (CIP) gold processing operations without the required Mineral Processing Permit which is punishable under Chapter XI of Department Administrative Order (DAO) No. 2010-21 implementing RA 7942 known as the Philippine Mining Act of 1995.
Dir. Jacildo also seek the assistance of all concerned law enforcement government agencies and respective mining contractor’s in the affected areas for the swift implementation of said order. While copies of the said Order will be posted in strategic public places and be served upon mining contractor’s and concerned military and police authorities for their information, guidance and enforcement.
Earlier, the Zamboanga del Sur Provincial Board passed Resolution No. 2K12-646 urging MGB-IX Regional Director Jacildo who is also the concurrent chairman of the Provincial Mining Regulatory Board (PMRB) to stop all illegal mining activities in the province. (PIA9/CAL)
