11 April 2017

Recognizing the need for cement, aggregates, and other non-metallic minerals, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has allowed the processing of applications for non-metallic mining projects.

The Memorandum Order 2017-01 signed by the DENR Secretary Regina Paz L. Lopez on March 10, 2017, amended the provisions of DMO 2016-01. Certain quarry resources used in the construction industry are now exempted from the moratorium on new mining projects.

Mines and Geosciences Bureau – Central Visayas (MGB-7) and local government units may now accept and start processing applications for non-metallic mining.

Sand, gravel, limestone, crushed stones, among others are essential resources in the construction industry especially in a booming economy. Aggregates and quarry resources are used to build and maintain urban and rural infrastructures including commercial establishments, residential houses and buildings, roads and bridges.