CEBU CITY – Stop illegal quarrying operations and make sure all needed documents when extracting minerals are in order.

This was the stern warning given by the Mines and Geosciences Bureau in Central Visayas (MGB 7) to quarry operators and stakeholders.

In a statement, the MGB clarified that it has not suspended the permits it issued to quarry and sand and gravel operators in Central Visayas.

The MGB 7 issued the clarification after Cebu Gov. Gwen Garcia suspended the permits that the Capitol issued to quarry operators.

To avoid trouble when delivering minerals or mineral products, holders of the Department Environment and Natural Resources-MGB permits must ensure that the required delivery receipts (DR) and ore transport permits (OTR) are duly filled-out and in order.

The MGB warned that all illegally sourced minerals, mineral products, and by-products including tools, conveyances, and equipment used in the commission of any offense against the Philippine Mining Law will be seized.

Those who will be caught illegally extracting, removing, or disposing minerals may face six months to six years imprisonment or pay a fine ranging from P10,000 to P20,000 or both.

The MGB 7 also advised law enforcers to notify the MGB 7 when making apprehension for the turnover of seized items for proper disposition and investigation.

Efren Carido, MGB 7 regional director, likewise advised that permit holders should ensure that they abide by safety, health and environmental provisions of the mining law and regulations.

The MGB 7 will conduct comprehensive evaluation of the existing permit holders/operators to assess the compliance of the regulations and commitment, including social development and management of host and neighboring communities, Carido said. | By Calvin Cordova, Manila Bulletin