Consultation and engagement with the stakeholders is a standard procedure in the process of starting a mining venture in the Philippines, according to Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Angelo T. Reyes.

Without such consultations, stakeholders will be deprived of their rights under a democracy, which in turn will jeopardize the good intentions of mining investors in the long run, he added.

Reyes made these statements in his closing remarks at the Indaba in the Philippines Mining Conference: Meeting with Stakeholders in the Local Mining Industry held at Makati Shangri-La Hotel last Thursday, September 14. The conference was attended by more than 36 foreign mining investors coming from Australia, Britain, United Slates and South African countries like Tanzania, Ghana and Mali.

Reyes said that in modern times, stakeholders must have a say on any mining activities to be conducted in their midst as it is they and their future who will be most affected. "Modern mining, wherever located, must come to terms with the varying views and desires of stakeholders. It's all about the `social license to operate', it's all about democracy in action," he said.

Reyes also pointed out that the general perception of mining is a "dirty business" which benefits only a few and leads to the destruction of the environment. 'This, he said, call be overcome through dialogues with all concerned sectors, especially those living in areas where the mining is to be conducted.

He said that addressing the issues raised against mining requires "pro-active and lasting solutions" which can only be achieved through stakeholders' participation.

"Stakeholders engagement is a must. However, it is not about bringing them to our side of the fence but respecting their views and working with them towards the common ground solutions facing the mining project," the DENR chief said.

Reyes pointed out that environmental management and protection and social development are principles enshrined in the laws, rules and regulations of the Philippines.

He said that best practices and sustainable mining must always be considered in order to ensure that mining proceeds in a socially and environmentally responsible manner. "Let it be emphasized that the Philippine government is revitalizing mining not purely for the expected economic benefits but with due and equal regard for the environment and the communities," he said. (DENR Public Affairs Office)

September 19, 2006