NEWS

By Marita Moaje | Philippine News Agency | February 17, 2025 5:03PM

MANILA – The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has issued a new directive mandating mining companies to strengthen their community development programs while addressing biodiversity loss.

The administrative order issued by DENR Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo Loyzaga specifically mandates the mining sector to align the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) into their Social Development and Management Programs (SDMPs), according to a news release Monday.

This move aims to enhance the well-being of host communities while ensuring stronger environmental safeguards.

Loyzaga said the directive supports President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s vision of utilizing the country’s natural resources for inclusive and sustainable development.

“The goal is to ensure that the wealth generated from mineral extraction is shared equitably, that ecosystems are protected and that local communities gain empowerment,” she said.

SDMP is the five-year comprehensive plan required from mining companies for the sustained improvement of the living standards of their host and neighboring communities in their areas of operation.

The 17-point UN SDGs are no poverty; zero hunger; good health and well-being; quality education; gender equality, clean water and sanitation; affordable and clean energy; decent work and economic growth; industry, innovation and infrastructure; reduced inequalities; sustainable cities and communities; responsible consumption and production; climate action; life below water; life on land; peace, justice and strong institutions; and partnership for the goals.

All UN member states adopted the interlinked goals in 2015.

Comprised of 169 specific targets, the SDG serves as a global blueprint to end extreme poverty, reduce inequality and protect the planet by 2030.

The new administrative order underscores the inclusion of programs that would help enhance biodiversity conservation and protection, and institutionalize climate action of host and impact communities, among others.

The SDMP allocation is directed towards the host communities of the mining projects and is utilized by local government units (LGUs) in the form of community development projects.

Specifically, 10 percent is reserved for information, education, and communication efforts; 15 percent for the advancement of mining technology and geosciences; and 75 percent for projects directly implemented by the LGUs, such as roads, water supply, health centers, school buildings and scholarships, and livelihood projects.

Loyzaga said mining firms must incorporate biodiversity conservation, climate action, labor rights, gender equity, and social services into their community programs.

“We’re also looking at reforestation, rehabilitation, and restoration of ecosystem to address biodiversity loss,” she said.

Under Republic Act 7942 or the Philippine Mining Act implemented through the DENR, mining firms must allocate 1.5 percent of their operating expenses to SDMPs, with funding directed toward education, technology advancement, and essential infrastructure such as roads, water supply, and health services.

From 2002 to 2027, SDMP commitments are projected to reach PHP28 billion, with PHP17.7 billion allotted from 2002 to 2022 on livelihood programs, scholarships, medical aid, and public works.

Source: Philippine News Agency

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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