Clandestine mining ordered stopped

BOHOL, Philippines — Environment authorities have recommended freezing the operation of clandestine gold mines in Talibon town unless owners can show they have complied with necessary permits.

The recommendation came following reports that clandestine gold extractions through makeshift tunnels have thrived in Talibon even without permit, the Bohol Environment Management Office (BEMO) said.

Edgardo Loquellano, scientific engineer III of the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB), said that based on the information he has gathered, there are now four small-scale gold mining operations in Talibon, especially in the hinterland barangay of Magsaysay and its neighboring areas.

He said it is necessary for operators of these mines to get permits not only for taxation but also for environmental, health and safety purposes. Among the permits that need to be complied with are the Environmental Compliance Certificate and area clearance.

Meanwhile, under the law, the permit for small-scale extraction will be issued by the provincial governor.

It is unclear how much gold ores have been spotted in the area, but small-scale mining has reportedly been operating for a long time now. Miners in the area are reportedly on a "hand-to-mouth" survival because not much gold has been available.

The local government unit earns from extraction and other license fees. The barangay where the mine is located gets a share of 40 percent while the municipality and provincial government can get a share of 30 percent for every piece of gold.

Loquellano said MGB and BEMO will inspect the areas to assess the situation. For the meantime, BEMO recommended that the operations "should be ordered stopped." — /JMO (THE FREEMAN)