MGB eyes reduction of mining requirements

MANILA, Philippines — The Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) is proposing for a rationalization of requirements for various mining application permits in line with President Duterte’s call for cutting red tape in the government.

While MGB’s proposal to streamline requirements for mining applications is still undergoing review, the plan will allow a faster processing of permits for the extraction of mineral deposits in the country.

The planned reduction of requirements also counters the proposed bill in Congress that will entail mining companies to seek legislative franchise first before they begin operations.

The streamlining applies to applications for Exploration Permit (EP), Mineral Production Sharing Agreement (MPSA), Declaration of Mining Project Feasibility (DMPF), Mineral Processing Permit (MPP), Industrial Sand and Gravel Permit (ISGP), Operating Agreement (OA), and Deed of Assignment for MPSA (DOA).

From 19 and 10 documentary requirements for new and renewal of EP, the requirements will be reduced to 15 and eight, respectively.

For MPSA renewal, the 16 documentary requirements will be slashed to six.

MGB is also cutting the documentary requirements for DMPF for integrated MPSA and EP to 15 and eight from 16 and nine, respectively.

For MPP renewal, the 13 documentary requirements will be reduced to 10.

For new and renewal of ISGP, the 20 and 13 documentary requirements, will be cut down to 16 and four, respectively.

Lastly, for the OA, the seven documentary requirements will be reduced to five; while the 13 documentary requirements for DOA will be lessened to 10.

The streamlining proposal is currently undergoing review by the MGB Regional Offices before it is finalized for publication.

The MGB earlier said it would continue to pursue long-term and stable environmental policies that would focus on the utilization of the country’s mineral deposits.