Duterte backs Lopez in fight vs illegal mining companies

MANILA, Philippines -- President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday said that he supports Department of Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Gina Lopez’s anti-illegal mining program and gave her the green light to go after companies engaged in illegal mining.

In his first State of the Nation Address (SONA), Duterte singled Lopez out and defended her appointment saying he approves of shutting down mining companies that do not meet environmental safety standards. He ordered Lopez to “amend, suspend, or revoke permits” of these companies.

“Many are complaining of the appointment of Gina Lopez… Gina Lopez and I are just telling you to follow government standards. Do not destroy the environment.  Follow [regulations]… wala tayong problema,” the president said.

Duterte assured Lopez that the military and the police will support Lopez in her efforts to curb illegal logging and illegal mining.

DENR to follow Duterte’s orders

Lopez said the DENR will follow Duterte's directives and will prioritize the welfare of the people as this is his administration’s advocacy.

“In the Duterte administration, mahal na mahal na mahal niya ang mga Filipino, bawal magdusa,” Lopez said in a chance interview after the SONA.

Asked what she will do with local governments that grant quarrying permits, Lopez warned the officials to heed Duterte’s call to take care of the environment and of Filipinos.

“Don’t do anything which makes people suffer, just don’t,” the DENR chief said.

“He doesn’t want people to be adversary affected, farmers, fishermen, community, that’s more important than the money anyone makes, they are more important than money,” Lopez stressed.

Lopez said she was overwhelmed that she was given special mention by the president during his speech. She said she will just fulfill Duterte’s directives.

“I will do exactly as he said…alagaan ang Filipino. Money can’t be important than the welfare of the people so we will do everything to make sure people are safe,” she said.