Philippines: Difficult but not hopeless drive

Last October, the Philippine government signed the historic Minamata Treaty, but the agreement is only a first step in the awesome task of eliminating mercury use in Philippine mining. We may have scored victories in legislation at both national and international levels, but we must work double time. We are seeking to change not just a practice, we are

also aiming to transform the hearts and minds of our small-scale miners—through education, assistance, and by providing alternatives.
Mercury use in Compostela Valley poses a very difficult challenge to the government, health advocates and environmentalists. But difficult is different from hopeless. Although the situation looks daunting, we are hopeful that one day soon we will see the end of mercury use in ASGM, not only in Compostela
Valley, but also in the country.
http://opinion.inquirer.net/69187/difficult-but-not-hopeless-drive