Philippines: Lawmaker Calls For Regulation Of Small-Scale Mining

Magsaysay said the local governments, especially at the barangay level, should be the first to educate the small-scale miners on the ill effects of the use of mercury and other chemicals on soil.

“We have to educate them and make them aware of safe mining practices and set guidelines on what they can do,” Magsaysay said.Magsaysay’s statement came in reaction to the declaration of local officials that it’s hard to put a stop to the sector as there are no alternative opportunities of livelihood in nearby areas.

http://www.sunstar.com.ph/cagayan-de-oro/local-news/2012/01/09/lawmaker-calls-regulation-small-scale-mining-199705