Luna, Apayao - The Provincial Mining Regulatory Board (PMRB) Technical Working Group (TWG) gathered for its first quarter meeting today, March 28, 2023 in AETSC, Luna to discuss mining activities in the province.
Said meeting was attended by various stakeholders including representatives from the provincial and municipal government units, concerned National Line Agencies (NLAs), mining groups, and indigenous peoples' groups.
The meeting was presided over by Provincial Administrator Atty. Edmar Pascua. One of the forefront topics was the Commercial Sand And Gravel (CSAG) extraction activities in Apayao river and its tributaries.
The TWG presented a report on the status of CSAG extraction, highlighting the need for stricter regulations to ensure sustainable and responsible mining practices. Said report cited several cases of irregulaties that have caused environmental damage and threatened the livelihood of local communities. To further stenghten their measures, the group approved the proposed benchmarking activity in Pangasinan scheduled in April this year to replicate their best practices.
During the meeting, stakeholders expressed their concerns and suggestions on how to address issues sorrounding CSAG and effects of river flow diversion from its original channels. Engr. Bernadine Agonoy emphasized the need for clear guidelines and standards to regulate mining operations and ensure compliance with environmental laws.
The TWG agreed to consider the inputs and recommendations from the stakeholders and work towards the development of a comprehensive regulatory framework for CSAG. They also recognized the need for close collaboration among different agencies and stakeholders to ensure effective implementation and enforcement of regulations.
The meeting ended with a call for greater transparency and accountability in the mining industry and a renewed commitment to promoting sustainable and responsible mining practices in the province. The PMRB - TWG vowed to continue working towards a more sustainable and responsible mining industry that benefits both the economy and the environment.
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