President Aquino is urging mining companies to continue implementing sustainable and responsible practices to enable the sector to reach its full potential, and deliver inclusive growth.
In his speech during the presidential mineral industry environmental awards ceremony held at the Malacañan Palace on Wednesday, President Aquino said the government is also responsible in paving pathways through which more Filipinos can benefit from the country’s natural resources in a responsible and sustainable manner.
Mr. Aquino said the government will continue working with industry players to minimize the impact of the mining sector on the environment amid threats brought about by global climate change.
He also cited various government programs—the Nationwide Anti-Illegal Logging Campaign which has reduced the number of illegal-logging hot spots from 197 to 23; and the National Greening Program with a goal to plant 1.5 billion seedlings in 1.5 million hectares around the country.
“Moving forward, our government will continue working with you, in the belief that it is through constant communication and cooperation that we will give rise to industries that are truly sustainable, inclusive and profitable,” he said.
Mr. Aquino said he believes that shared efforts to ensure the sustainability of mining can enable the sector to reach its full potential in the country “sooner rather than later.”
He noted that the Philippines is one of the most mineral-rich countries in the world.
“Meeting all of you today, however, fills me with optimism that we are getting better —both at making the most of our resources and at making sure your growth is felt by the vast majority of Filipino people,” he said.