Group urges passage of new mining law

MANILA, Philippines -  A non-government organization is pushing for the passage of a new mining law amid the continuing disagreement between departments on how to handle the industry.

Advocate group SOS Yamang Bayan Network said the existing Mining Act of 1995 is a flawed law that needs to be replaced by the Alternative Minerals Management Bill (AMMB).

“If you look at the Mining Act, you will see the unmistakable imprint of mining companies. It’s time this law is scrapped and replaced by a bill that will resolve some of the contentious issues involving mining,” spokesperson Norly Mercado said.

Mercado added that the new law would regulate the mining industry, protect the environment, and ensure communities benefit from the sector.

The group also slammed Finance chief Carlos Dominguez for opposing former environment secretary Gina Lopez’s unprecedented suspension of mining licenses and closure of mines.

“The Mining Act, which Dominguez uses to defend the excesses and sins of the mining industry, gives large-scale mining companies carte blanche to raid our country’s non-renewable natural resources to line their pockets,” Mercado said.

Meanwhile, different versions of the AMMB had been filed in Congress and the Senate which prevent foreign large-scale companies from operating in the country.