Task force vs Diwalwal mining strengthened

MANILA, Philippines — President Marcos has issued an executive order strengthening National Task Force Diwalwal, citing the return of unauthorized mining activities in the Diwalwal Mining Reservation Area.

The DMRA is an 8,100-hectare mineral reservation and environmentally critical area located in Monkayo, Davao de Oro.

“It has been observed that unauthorized mining activities have resumed in the DMRA, making it imperative to strengthen Task Force Diwalwal to ensure that concerns regarding illegal mining activities, environmental degradation, and socio-economic development in the DMRA are properly addressed,” Marcos said in issuing Executive Order 88.

“The Task Force shall have the primary duty of overseeing all mining activities in the DMRA, with the end view of creating an environment conducive to lasting peace and sustainable development,” the EO, signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin on July 4, said.

The Task Force is now composed of the following: the secretary of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources as chairperson; and a representative from the Office of the President, the secretary of the Department of National Defense, the secretary of the Department of the Interior and Local Government and the chairperson of the Mindanao Development Authority as members.

The Task Force shall conduct an inventory and evaluation of all mining activities and tenements in the DMRA.

All concerned government agencies are directed, while all local government units within Davao de Oro and the private sector are encouraged to render support to and cooperation with the Task Force, the order said.

The funding for the initial implementation of the order will be charged against the existing appropriations of the member-agencies of the Task Force. Thereafter, the subsequent funding requirements for the purpose will be included in the budget proposals of member-agencies, EO 88 stated.

Under Proclamation 297 issued in 2002, mining operations in the DMRA may only be undertaken either by the DENR or through qualified contractors authorized by the agency and the state.