ILOILO CITY (October 5, 2006) -- The Mines and Geosciences Bureau, Regional Office No. 6 (MGB-6) in cooperation with the Philippine Society of Mining Engineers – Visayas Chapter (PSEM-VC), hosted the 4th Visayas Regional Mineral Industry Summit on September 21-23, 2006 at the Iloilo Business Hotel, Iloilo City.

Iloilo Governor Niel D. Tupas graced the occasion as Keynote Speaker during the Opening Ceremonies on September 22, 2006 held at the Iloilo Business Hotel, Iloilo City. Mr. Nathaniel Guillergan represented Iloilo City Mayor Jerry P. Treñas in welcoming the 92 participants comprising of mining engineers and other industry professionals from the private and public sector from Regions 6, 7 and 8.

DENR Assistant Secretary for Mines Jeremias L. Dolino delivered a speech focusing on the summit's theme "Responsible Mining Sustains Life."

Technical papers were presented tackling recent developments and issues besetting the minerals industry, environmental and social mechanisms in ensuring that mining is done responsibly, sharing of industry-relevant experiences both from private and public sectors and on geologic hazards as experienced by Region 8.

In his speech, DENR Assistant Secretary for Mines Jeremias L. Dolino said that a mining project must contribute to economic growth, promote social equity, and protect the environment for it to be called responsible.

Engr. Josue P. Bordon, PSEM-VC President said "staging the 4th summit this time in Iloilo City reaffirms PSEM's role in promoting the full potential of the country's mineral resources."

MGB-6 Regional Director Leo Van V. Juguan, also PSEM-VC Vice President for Region 6 was more than glad to welcome the participants in Region 6 as the mining summit brings together fellow mining engineers and other colleagues in the minerals industry into a reunion-like gathering. It also provides great opportunity for discussions and updates about the industry and the mining profession.

Three other Regional Directors of MGB were present – RD Loreto Alburo of Region 8, RD Roger de Dios and RD Reynulfo Juan of Region 5, who gave updates on the DENR Assessment of Rapu-Rapu Polymetallic Project.

The participants had the chance to relax, socialize and exchange ideas during the three-day summit which included a sports fest and a tour of the City of Iloilo. (Lara Artajo, MGB Region 6)

September 28, 2006