MGB: Review black sand mining operations

MANILA, Philippines - The Mining Industry Coordinating Council (MICC) has ordered a review of black sand mining operations to curb the proliferation of illegal mining operations, the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) said yesterday.

The MICC recently issued Resolution 4, or the Adoption of Immediate Measures to Address Black Sand Mining Operations in the Country.

These include the review of permits for black sand mining as well as the imposition of sanctions for violations of permit conditions.

The MICC has appointed the Department of Public Works and Highways as supervisor of river delta dredging activities to prevent the abuse of permits issued by local government units. 

Black sand, or magnetite, is a component of steel production. Many black sand miners in the country export to smelters in China.

The MGB has been coordinating with the National Bureau of Investigation to stop the illicit operations of black sand miners in several provinces.

Black sand extraction along beaches can erode coastlines, causing floods in coastal communities.

The Department of the Interior and Local Government has also ordered local government executives to strictly enforce restrictions on black sand and beach mining to prevent the destruction of coastlines and stop the illegal extraction of minerals.

Under the Mining Act of 1995, no mineral extraction shall be allowed within one kilometer from the boundaries of reservoirs established for public water supply, archaeological and historic sites and any public works.