Alyansa Tigil Mina has expressed support for a Senate inquiry into the adverse effects of mining and quarrying activities in the Philippines. 

The inquiry, proposed by Sen. Risa Hontiveros through Senate Resolution No. 989, addresses issues including human rights violations, legal infractions, and environmental damages associated with these industries.

“The introduction of this resolution is timely and critical. There have been countless reports detailing the impacts of mining and quarrying on the environment and local communities,” Jaybee Garganera, national coordinator of the group.

Garganera said the resolution “is a step in the right direction,” which he hopes will result “in amending our laws and policies on mining and quarrying.”

The resolution calls for a comprehensive review by the appropriate Senate committee to guide potential amendments to current mining and quarrying laws. 

Garganera emphasized the importance of involving various stakeholders in the discussion, including the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), and the communities directly affected by mining operations.

“We welcome the proposed Senate Resolution as there are numerous reports involving human rights violations, legal violations, and environmental damages caused by mining and quarrying activities,” Garganera explained. 

He recommended a dialogue between the affected communities and related agencies to address the concerns and determine the extent of the impacts.

The group renewed its call for an overhaul of the existing Mining Act of the Philippines, RA 7942. The group proposed the enactment of an alternative minerals management bill that would prioritize sustainable practices and respond to the needs of impacted communities.

“We hope that an alternative minerals management bill would be legislated to rationalize mining and the use of minerals in the country,” said Garganera.