The Chamber of Mines of the Philippines (COMP) has expressed strong objections to the Palawan provincial government decision implementing a 50-year moratorium on new mining projects, calling it “myopic” and counterproductive. The local ordinance, passed by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Palawan, halts the issuance of mining endorsements, exploration permits, and mineral agreements for five decades.
In a statement released Thursday, COMP argued that the moratorium limits the country’s ability to plan and capitalize on its mineral resources, especially as global demand for critical minerals rises. The group stressed that the government has a responsibility to develop mineral resources in a sustainable and responsible manner for the benefit of the public, warning that the moratorium undermines Palawan’s prospects for a balanced approach to development.
While acknowledging the environmental concerns driving the decision, the COMP said that existing mining laws, including the Philippine Mining Act of 1995, already impose stringent environmental safeguards. The mining group also highlighted the industry’s significant contributions to environmental protection, citing the planting of 3.79 million seedlings and a commitment of P22 billion to environmental programs in the Mimaropa.
COMP further emphasized that the mining industry plays a crucial role in the local economy, accounting for 7.5 percent of Mimaropa’s gross regional domestic product, with a large portion of the contributions coming from Palawan’s operational mines. The group also noted that mining companies in the region invest heavily in social development programs, contributing P350.47 million to education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
The chamber urged the Palawan local government to consider both environmental protection and the broader needs of local communities when pursuing sustainability. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources has not yet responded to the development.
