MEPEO Assembly Sets 2026 Environmental and Financial Priorities in Central Visayas

To reinforce environmental governance in the mining industry, the Mine Safety, Environment, and Social Development Division (MSESDD) of the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) 7 recently convened the Mine Environmental Protection and Enhancement Office (MEPEO) Assembly, gathering representatives from large-scale mining companies across Central Visayas.

The assembly served as a venue to align the 2026 Annual Work and Financial Plans (AWFP) and the Annual Environmental Protection and Enhancement Program (AEPEP)—key tools in promoting responsible mining and environmental sustainability in the region.

Collaboration

The discussions emphasized stronger coordination between MGB 7 and the Multi-Partite Monitoring Team (MMT) to ensure that mining operations comply with regulations while upholding environmental integrity and community welfare.

In his opening message, Engr. Edgar C. Lagarnia, MSESDD Chief and MMT Head, emphasized that sustainable mining thrives on transparency and partnership, setting a collaborative tone for the entire assembly.

Aligning Plans and Priorities

Engr. Genesis D. Madera, who also served as Master of Ceremony, and Engr. Anjaylove S. Geniston led the presentation of the MMT Manual of Operations (MOO) and the rationale behind the 2026 AWFP, highlighting the need to align MEPEO initiatives with MGB’s environmental objectives.

A significant highlight of the session was the presentation of the Proposed Region VII–Shared 2026 AWFP, which aims to harmonize monitoring and management activities across mining firms to promote consistent standards of accountability and efficiency.

Representatives from 13 large-scale mining companies also presented their company-specific 2026 AWFPs, outlining planned environmental programs, budget allocations, and on-site initiatives for the coming year.

Looking Ahead

Before concluding, Engr. Madera provided key AEPEP reminders and compliance guidelines, stressing the timely submission of the 2026 AEPEP Matrix to ensure proper monitoring and evaluation.

At the conclusion of the event, OIC-Regional Director Al Emil G. Berador thanked and congratulated the MSESDD Team for spearheading the initiative, noting that this was the first annual MEPEO Assembly to be successfully held in the region.

The MEPEO Assembly, initiated by the MSESDD, was held on October 29, 2025, at Seda Central Bloc, Cebu City. (Heart Rizarri/IO)