DAMALERIO |
|
The
Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) is seeking to require
stringent rules for mining and quarry operations here
in the province.
This
as First District Board Member Alfonso Damalerio II
submitted for approval on first reading the "Bohol
Mining Ordinance" during the SP session yesterday.
In his privilege speech, Damalerio cited that provincial
revenues from mining operations rose to 85-percent from
P2.1 million last year to P3.98 million this year.
While revitalizing mining and quarry operations is important,
Damalerio said, adopting limitations to its operations
here is likewise critical.
|
"Provisions
and adequate safeguards for environmental concerns are also
embodied [in] the proposed ordinance so as to mitigate the
impact of the operation and ensure environmental sustainability,"
Damalerio said.
|
|
|
In
the proposed regulation, local government units (LGUs)
are required to monitor quarry operations within their
respective areas.
Transparency
is also required in obtaining permits for mining from
operators at the Department of Environment and Natural
Resources (DENR) and other government agencies.
The
total revenue represents 10-percent of the market value
of the minerals extracted based on the province's Revenue
Code.
|
The
revenue sharing under the revenue code is 30-percent for the
provincial government, 30-percent for the municipality where
the operation is conducted while 40-percent goes to the barangay
where the quarry resources had been taken.
According
to Damalerio, "the sharing scheme clearly illustrates
the economic benefits of the proposed ordinance," as
each government unit (province-municipality and barangay)
collects a share of the taxes and fees imposed.
The
approval of the proposed ordinance is also within the 10-point
agenda of Gov. Erico Aumentado which calls for "environmental
sustainability" while "expanding economic opportunities,"
Damalerio said.
The
Bohol Environment and Management Office (BEMO) will be the
chief implementor of the ordinance, according to Damalerio.
|
