TABLE OF CONTENTS I. Executive Summary II. Detailed Physical Accomplishments a. Responsible Mining ❖ Mineral Resources Enforcement and Regulatory Program • Mineral Investment Promotion • Mining Industry Development ❖ Mineral Resources and Geosciences Development Program • Communication Plan for Minerals Development • National Mineral Reservation b. Geological Assessment ❖ Geohazard Assessment • Vulnerability and Risk Assessment and Updating of 1:10,000scale Geohazard Maps • Karst Subsurface Assessment • Conduct of IEC to LGUs ❖ Geologic Quadrangle Mapping ❖ Groundwater Resources Assessment III. Tables and Annexes IV. Prospects for CY 2021

MANDATE, MISSION AND VISION

MANDATE

The Mines and Geosciences Bureau is the primary government agency under Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) responsible for the conservation, management, development and proper use of the country’s mineral resources including those in reservations and lands of public domain. In pursuing the mandate, it envisions a mining and minerals industry that is not only prosperous but also socially, economically and environmentally sustainable, with broad community and political support while positively and progressively assisting in the government’s program on revitalizing the minerals industry and contribution to the general economic well-being of the nation.

MISSION

The MGB, as steward of the country's mineral resources, is committed to the promotion of sustainable mineral resources development, aware of its contribution to national economic growth and countryside community development. It fully recognizes that the development of a responsive policy framework in partnership with stakeholders to govern mineral exploration, mining and investment decisions and an effective institutional structure, are fundamental requisites for the sustainable utilization of the country's mineral resources. It is adherent to the promotion of geological studies as an integral element of socio-economic development, environmental protection and human safety. Yet, it is sensitive to the known environmental impacts of mining and the need for restoration and rehabilitation of mining affected areas and the development and adoption of environmental and geo-scientific technologies.

VISION

MGB envisions a minerals industry that is not only prosperous but also socially, economically and environmentally sustainable, with broad community and political support while positively and progressively assisting in government’s program on poverty alleviation and contributing to the general economic well- being of the nation. MGB also aims to be the leading geoscience and geo- resources Bureau serving the public and nation with scientific reliability.

FUNCTIONAL STATEMENT MINES AND GEOSCIENCES BUREAU REGIONAL OFFICE NO. I

OFFICE OF THE REGIONAL DIRECTOR

The Office of Regional Director shall implement the pertinent laws, policies, rules and regulations and programs; exercise the management functions of planning, organizing, directing and controlling; undertake Information, Education and Communication campaign; and perform such other duties and functions as may be provided by law or delegated by the Director.

FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DIVISION

The Finance and Administrative Division (FAD) shall provide general administrative services pertaining to human and financial resources and property and records management.

GEOSCIENCES DIVISION

The Geosciences Division (GSD) shall undertake land and marine geoscientific surveys including mineral exploration, geological mapping, geohazard assessment, groundwater resource exploration and vulnerability assessment, and engineering geological and geoenvironmental studies and provide geological laboratory and information services.

MINE MANAGEMENT DIVISION

The Mine Management Division (MMD) shall undertake initial evaluation of mining and mining-related applications, monitoring of the disposition and utilization of mineral lands and resources, and survey of mineral lands.

MINE SAFETY, ENVIRONMENT AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT DIVISION

The Mine Safety, Environment and Social Development Division (MSESDD) shall conduct the evaluation and monitoring of implementation of programs and investigate incidents/complaints on mine safety and health, environmental management and social development.

I. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

As we conclude this very tough and challenging year, the Mines and Geosciences Bureau Region 1 is one with the nation in hopes and positivity that we will be able to rise again. We may have struggled and had a hard time welcoming the “new normal” yet we learned to embrace the changes and adapt to it in our everyday lives. However, we remain true to our mandate and responsibility to the people and the environment. Our mission as stewards of the country’s mineral resources while committed to the promotion of sustainable mineral resources development has truly gone a long way up to this day.

MGB Region 1 continues to take an active role in promoting responsible mining. We seek to transform the Philippine mining industry to an environmentally- friendly, globally competitive, significant contributor to the national economy and improve the welfare of the people and the country especially in this global pandemic. The contributions of the mining industry have been prioritized to help in the economic recovery of the country.

Challenging it may be, we have attained remarkable accomplishments this year.

We have successfully passed the Integrated Management System (IMS) ISO Surveillance Audit conducted by the certifying body, National Quality Assurance (NQA) for the Quality Management System, Environmental Management System, and Occupational Health and Safety Assessment. We continued with our certification after the Second Surveillance.

In line with the global crisis due to COVID 19, the we advised companies to use unutilized funds of Social Development and Management Programs (SDMPs) of mining companies to support affected impact and non-impact communities. MGB Region 1 encouraged and allowed mining contractors and permit holders to re-align their unspent SDMP funds and extend necessary assistance to their host and neighboring communities during the implementation of the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ). Despite of the crisis, some companies came up with strategic programs during the duration of the ECQ. This includes the provision food packs, hygiene kits to support their respective impact communities.

We also gave tribute to all dedicated frontliners who attend and work tirelessly to address this global pandemic. In line with this, employees of MGB-1 initiated a donation drive to raise funds for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for health workers. PPEs were procured and distributed in different hospitals in .

Several employees and were hired and promoted as they took their oath of office in the months of May and June 2020. Positions filled up includes Administrative Assistant II, Science Research Specialist II, Engineer III, Geologist II and Supervising Geologist.

An Electronic Library (e-library) was also initiated and developed. The Mining Tenement Evaluation Section (MTES) in the Mine Management Division continues to push for the development and eventual mainstreaming of the

MGB (E-Lib). This is to secure all accounts relating to mining permits/contracts and applications filed or registered in this office and for the maintenance of records including classifying, storing, securing and preservation. The Electronic Library can be accessed from any browser by searching for www.mgbr1elib.com. With a systematic document and records management, the Organization may treat every transaction with faster and more effective response. This leads to more accurate decision making for the top management.

We also conferred with the Sangguniang Panlalawigan Members of the Provinces in the region to discuss our programs, plans and activities (PPAs) which promotes responsible mining, environmental protection and community empowerment and resiliency.

As part of the safety and urgent measures to arrest the spread of the Corona virus disease, virtual meetings and webinars were conducted in various events in the office.

A Media Forum was conducted in line with the celebration of the 122nd Founding Anniversary of MGB and Mining Month last November. Issues and concerns in the minerals industry in the were discussed and addressed. The said forum is one of MGB-1’s strategy to communicate the government’s plans, programs, projects and activities through the media (print and broadcast) as part of the #MineResponsibility campaign. This is to lobby its efforts of the mining industry to inform, educate and communicate the benefits that it gives to the overall economy of the country, and to call for action towards responsible mining.

2020 has been an avenue to highlight the skills and potentials of our personnel and likewise to challenge and encourage each other to work harder while taking care of our health and staying safe. We are still grateful for the time it gave us to reflect and re-evaluate our past decisions to give way to better and brighter achievements. May we remain vigilant in these trying times yet still hope that we will be able to rise from this global crisis. Moreover, let us lead the way towards meaningful change, go forth and make a difference for the world and for humanity. Let us build a non-discriminating, progressive society and render support to the environment and natural resources that sustains us.

II. DETAILED PHYSICAL ACCOMPLISHMENT

a. Responsible Mining

O01: NATURAL RESOURCES SUSTAINABLY MANAGED - PROGRAM 1: MINERAL RESOURCES ENFORCEMENT AND REGULATORY PROGRAM

• MINERAL INVESTMENT PROMOTION PROGRAM

Issuance of Mining Permits/Contracts

This Office had issued a total of eleven ( 11 ) Industrial Sand and Gravel Permits, namely:

Tenement No. Permittee Location

IP No. 01 Julius Joseph Dumpit Brgy. Cabalayangan, Bauang, La Union

IP No. 02 R.J. Flores Construction Brgy. Cabaritan Sur, Naguilian, La Union

IP No. 03 Karlo D. Flores Brgy. Cabaritan Sur, Naguilian, La Union

IP No. 04 Darwin O. Parilla Brgy. Paing, Bantay,

IP No. 05 Stonemason, Inc. Brgy. Paing, Bantay, Ilocos Sur

IP No. 06 Faye C. Navarro Brgy. Lapaz, Laoag,

IP No. 07 Mary Carmayne A. Brgy. Lapaz, Laoag, Ilocos Macalipis Norte

IP. No. 08 Shineth C. Tamondong Brgy. Lapaz, Laoag, Ilocos Norte

IP No. 09 Dohreen Jenniebelle A. Brgy. Lapaz, Laoag, Ilocos Baria Norte

IP No. 10 Maria Anica T. Castro Brgy. Lapaz, Laoag, Ilocos Norte

IP No. 11 Jan Shean C. Garalde Brgy. Lapaz, Laoag, Ilocos Norte

In addition, a combined total of one hundred thirty (130) Ore Transport Permit and Mineral Ore Export Permit were issued. These include eighty-six (86) Ore Transport Permit (OTP) and forty-four (44) Mineral Ore Export Permit (MOEP). The commodities such as pebbles and construction/masonry sand, and gravel, that are transported locally and exported internationally are sourced from the Municipality of Luna, La Union and Omnico Natural Resources, Inc. located in the Municipality of Sarrat, Province of Ilocos Norte.

The following are the duly registered accredited traders/ dealers involved in the transport and export of pebbles:

1. New Chua Eng Hua Corporation 327 Villamor St., San Juan City, Metro Manila

2. FRN Enterprise 22 McArthur, Luna, la Union

3. StonePhil International Trading Corporation 6060 Pabaya St., Mapulang Lupa, Valenzuela City, Metro Manila

4. Luna Goldstone Enterprise Brgy. Sto. Domingo Sur, Luna, La union

5. Ideal World Corporation Brgy. De Ocampo, Trece Martires City,

A total of 2,454 metric tons was shipped – out during the period under review. Excise Tax payments and Extraction Fees collected by the government totaled PhP 42,700.00 and PhP 45,220.00, respectively.

Foreign markets include the following:

1. Japan; 2. Taiwan; 3. Korea; 4. Malaysia; 5. Netherland; 6. Germany; and 7. Switzerland

On the other hand, 408,082.5 MT of processed sand and gravel, sourced - out from Padsan River, was shipped to foreign and local destinations which includes the Province of and , and Taiwan, and Japan, respectively. Excise Tax payments and Extraction Fees is Php 2,856,577.5 and Php 5,441,099.98, respectively.

• Other Permits (Accreditations, Certificate of Environmental Management and Community Relations Record (CEMCRR) / Certificate of Exemption (Coe), Declaration of Mining Project Feasibility (DMPF)

The traders, dealers and retailers of minerals/mineral products/by-products that are not considered as Contractors/Permit Holders/mining right holders are henceforth required to be accredited by this Office.

Section 129 of Consolidated DENR Administrative Order No. 2010-21, s. 2010 provides for the mandatory requirements for the accreditation process.

The following entities were accredited, the details of which are listed below;

ACCREDITATION NO. PERMIT HOLDER

2020-01 Luna Goldstone Enterprise 2020-03 StonePhil International Trading Corporation 2020-04 Pure North Construction and Aggregates 2020-05 Asia Axis, Inc. 2020-06 Ideal World Corporation

• Certification

For samples not exceeding two (2) metric tons to be used exclusively for assay and pilot test purposes, a certification regarding the same shall be issued by the Regional Director concerned Pursuant to section 117 of the Consolidated DENR Administrative Order No. 2010-21, s. 2010, certifications were issued to the following:

CERTIFICATION PROPONENT WEIGHT LOCATION NO. 2020-R1-01 Omnico Natural 40 kgs - Construction Yanji,China Resources Inc. Sand 2020-R1-02 C and S Premier 30 kgs - Boulder New Taipei City, Steel 10 Kgs - Sand and Taiwan Corporation Gravel 2020-R1-03 Omnico Natural 10 kgs - Masonry Sand Huafupeng Resources, Inc. Industrial Park, China 2020-R1-04 Omnico Natural 10 kgs - Construction Kobe, Japan Resources, Inc Sand 10 Kgs - Masonry Sand 2020-R1-05 Omnico Natural 10 kgs - Construction New Taipei City, Resources, Inc. Sand Taiwan 10 kgs - Masonry Sand 2020-R1-06 Omnico Natural 25 kgs – Construction Fujian, China Resources, Inc. Sand 25- Masonry Sand 2020-R1-07 Omnico Natural 25 kgs – Construction Shenzen, China Resources, Inc. Sand 25- Masonry Sand 2020-R1-08 TWMP 2000 kgs- Feldspar Metro Manila, Philippines Material ( Raw) Philippines 2020-R1-09 Pure North 30 kgs - Sand and New Taipei City, Construction Gravel ( Crushed Sand Taiwan and ) Aggregates

Mining Applications with Final Action

In line with the on-going thrust of the Government to revitalize the Philippine minerals industry whereby mining permits/ applications are reviewed to expedite the grant of mining contract and permits and to cleanse non-moving permits and applications.

During the given period, twelve (12) permits and twenty-two (22) application were denied for their failure to comply with the provision of CDAO 2010-21 re: PROVIDING FOR A CONSOLIDATED DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER FOR THE IMPLEMENTING RULES AND REGULATIONS OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7942, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE “PHILIPPINE MINING ACT OF 1995” and DENR Memorandum Order 2010-04 re: Reforms in the Department Mining Tenement System.

Hereunder is a list of the denied permits and applications:

TENEMENT PERMIT HOLDER LOCATION NO.

IP NO. 07-017 CHARLIE ONG /SACUYA NORTE SANTA, ILOCOS LAO SUR

IP NO. 07-018 JANETTE ONG LAO SACUYA NORTE, RIZAL, SANTA, ILOCOS SUR

IP NO. 07-019 ROMEO YU CHAN SACUYA NORTE, RIZAL, SANTA, ILOCOS SUR

IP NO. 07-021 R & D PROPERTIES TAGUDIN, STA. CRUS, STA LUCIA, DEVELOPMENT CANDON CITY, , STA. INC CATALINA, CITY, ILOCOS SUR

IP NO. 08-011 CIRILO G. LAO RIZAL, SCCUYA NORTE, SANTA, ILOCOS SUR

IP NO. 13-002 R.J. FLORES SUDIPEN, LA UNION CONSTRUCTION

EXPA 110 ANACONDA AGOO AND STO. TOMAS, LA UNION MINING AND DEV’T CORPORATION

IP NO. 05-005 GAMALIEL FLORES DONGON,SISON,

IP NO. 10-002 MERLO Y. BARANGOBONG,TAYUG,PANGASINA RAMIREZ, JR. N

AMPP 013 SOUTH OCEAN PATUNGCALEO, , ILOCOS MINING SUR CORPORATION

AMPP 019 COREASIA SAN VICENTE, ILOCOS SUR GLOBAL RESOURCES, INC

AMPP 014 JIMMY S. AGUDO STO. DOMINGO, ILOCOS SUR

AMPP 015 LOUIS T. SANTOS STA. CATALINA, ILOCOS SUR

IPA 329 DARWIN B. SISON, PANGASINAN ANGELES

IP NO. 08-012 VIKING NAMALANGAN/RIZAL, SANTA, ILOCOS CONSTRUCTION SUR AND SUPPLIES

IPA 307 EDWIN PUGAL BRGY. PAING, BANTAY, ILOCOS SUR

IPA 278 JESSIE V. CORBILLA TAYUG, PANGASINAN

AMPP 16 MEGAEAST BRGY. CAPARADACAN, CAOAYAN, ARCHIPELAGO ILOCOS SUR RESOURCES CORPORATION

AMPP 17 HONG ZHOU BRGY. SAN SEBASTIAN, SAN VICENTE, MINING ILOCOS SUR DEVELOPMENT

EXPA 104 JOSE ROY MINES VINTAR, ILOCOS NORTE PHILIPPINES, CORPORATION

EXPA 109 SILVER BELL STO.TOMAS AND ROSARIO, LA UNION MINING DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

IPA 319 JEAN ROSE D. ESPERANZA, SISON, PANGASINAN PAYBA

IPA 318 BLESSILDA S. ESPERANZA, SISON, PANGASINAN JARASA

IPA 317 LILIAN R. CRUZ ESPERANZA, SISON, PANGASINAN

IPA 316 MARITA D. ESPERANZA, SISON, PANGASINAN PASCUAL

IPA 327 ROLANDO S. BRGY. MANCASUY, BINALONAN, CALDERON PANGASINAN

IP NO. 06-019 ALLEN V. FAVIS BRGY. NAGPANAOAN, SANTA, ILOCOS SUR

IP NO. 06-021 VICENTE H. BRGY. NAGPANAOAN, SANTA, SANCHEZ III ILOCOS SUR

IPA 269 LIWLIWA R. BRGY. MANCASUY, BINALONAN, QUIANO PANGASINAN

IPA 352 R.J. FLORES BRGYS. IPET AND SUDIPEN, SUDIPEN, CONSTRUCTION LA UNION

IPA 326 HERMY S. LAYUG BRGY. CAL-LITANG, STA. MARIA, PANGASINAN

IP NO. 11-009 MA. TERESA D. BRGY AGAT, SISON, PANGASINAN MARIANO

IPA 325 EUSEBIO B. BRGY. CAL-LITANG, STA. MARIA, VENTURA PANGASINAN

EXPA 49 BERNARDINO A. BUGALLON, INFANTA, AGUILAR, PERLAS MANGATAREM, PANGASINAN

The applications for renewal of the Mineral Production Sharing Agreement granted to Holcim Mining and Development Corporation were endorsed to Mines and Geoscience Bureau, North Avenue, Diliman, City.

The details of the endorsed application are as follows:

TENEMENT NO. CONTRACTOR LOCATION

MPSA No. 42-1995-1 Holcim Mining and Brgy. Namatucan, Agno, Development Corporation Pangasinan

MPSA No. 43-1995-1 Holcim Mining and Brgy. Darigos, Luna, and Development Corporation Brgy. Paraoir, Balaoan

Approved Permits:

Tenement No. Permittee Location

IP No. 01 Julius Joseph Dumpit Brgy. Cabalayangan, Bauang, La Union

IP No. 02 R.J. Flores Construction Brgy. Cabaritan Sur, Naguilian, La Union

IP No. 03 Karlo D. Flores Brgy. Cabaritan Sur, Naguilian, La Union

IP No. 04 Darwin O. Parilla Brgy. Paing, Bantay, Ilocos Sur

IP No. 05 Stonemason, Inc. Brgy. Paing, Bantay, Ilocos Sur

IP No. 06 Faye C. Navarro Brgy. Lapaz, Laoag, Ilocos Norte

IP No. 07 Mary Carmayne A. Brgy. Lapaz, Laoag, Ilocos Macalipis Norte

IP. No. 08 Shineth C. Tamondong Brgy. Lapaz, Laoag, Ilocos Norte

IP No. 09 Dohreen Jenniebelle A. Brgy. Lapaz, Laoag, Ilocos Baria Norte

IP No. 10 Maria Anica T. Castro Brgy. Lapaz, Laoag, Ilocos Norte

IP No. 11 Jan Shean C. Garalde Brgy. Lapaz, Laoag, Ilocos Norte

Review of the Performance of Existing Mining Operations per EO No. 79

• Mining Permits/Contracts reviewed/cancelled/endorsed for cancellation

Sixty-one (61) mining permits/contracts were reviewed.

Approval of SHES Program

• ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AND ENHANCEMENT PROGRAM (EPEP) Company/Permit Holder Certificate of Date Approved Approval

1. Julius Joseph M. Dumpit 159-2020-72 May 6, 2020

2. RJ Flores- Rosario 160-2020-73 June 18, 2020

3. Karlo Flores 161-2020-74 August 11, 2020

4. RJ Flores - Naguilian 162-2020-75 August 18, 2020

5. Darwin O. Parilla 163-2020-76 November 18, 2020

6. Stonemason, Inc. 164-2020-77 November 18, 2020

• Annual Environmental Protection and Enhancement Program/Care and Maintenance Program (AEPEP/CMP)

Fifty-four (54) against a target of fifty-six (56) AEPEPs were evaluated and approved by the concerned Mine Rehabilitation Fund Committees for a 96.43% accomplishment.

Name of Permit Holder Date of COA Number Approved

1. Joseph L. Gomez 12/10/19 01-2020

2. Oniol II Development & Aggregates 12/11/19 02-2020 Corp. 3. William K. Dy 12/11/19 03-2020

4. Sir Rey C. Villapando 12/11/19 04-2020

5. Destiny Mighty Rock Corporation 12/11/19 05-2020

6. Heirs of Elias E. Olegario 12/16/19 06-2020

7. Benito Y. Co 12/16/19 07-2020

8. Northwest Luzon Mining Corp. 12/16/19 08-2020

9-10. Holcim Mining and Development 12/17/19 09-2020 Corporation (MPSA No. 043-95-1 and MPSA No. 238-2007-1)

11. Holcim Mining and Development 12/17/19 10-2020 Corporation (MPSA No. 236-2007-1)

12-13. Holcim Mining and 12/17/19 11-2020 Development Corporation (MPSA No. 042-1995-1 and MPSA No. 295-2009-1)

14. Nelson C. Chan 12/17/19 12-2020

15. Flor T. Lagang 12/19/19 13-2020

16. Joseph L. Chua 12/19/19 14-2020

17. Melchor S. De Leon 12/19/19 15-2020

18. Ramoncito Tan 12/19/19 16-2020

19. Mae Ann L. Chua 12/19/19 17-2020

20. Judy C. Tan 12/19/19 18-2020

21. Erna C. Tiu 12/19/19 19-2020

22. Edison C. Tiu 12/19/19 20-2020

23. Maechellenie P. Café 12/19/19 21-2020

24. Joan B. Palanog 12/19/19 22-2020

25. Myra R. Cruz 12/19/19 23-2020

26. Betty N. Chua 12/19/19 24-2020

27. Edmund A. Mendones 12/19/19 25-2020

28. Alice L. Chua 12/19/19 26-2020

29. Alma L. Kho 12/19/19 27-2020

30. Omnico Natural Resources, Inc. 12/19/19 28-2020

31. Antonio L. Kho 12/19/19 29-2020

32. Efren M. Pungtilan 12/19/19 30-2020

33. Bernardina R. Talan 12/19/19 31-2020

34. Ramon Chua 12/19/19 32-2020

35. Adoracion M. Ceperiano 12/19/19 33-2020

36. Ferdinand C. Obis 12/19/19 34-2020

37. North Point Aggregates, Inc. 12/19/19 35-2020

38. Felix Sanchez 12/19/19 36-2020

39. Conrado Ignacio 12/19/19 37-2020

40. Northern Cement Corporation 12/19/19 38-2020

41. N. Canlas Crushing Plant 12/19/19 39-2020

42. Delia B. Dizon 12/19/19 40-2020

43. Epfraim Balitao 12/19/19 41-2020

44. Sable le Varge, Inc. 12/20/19 42-2020

45. Matthew O. Liis 12/27/19 43-2020

46. Isabel B. Agusdan 1/3/2020 44-2020

47. George C. Aquino 1/3/2020 45-2020

48. A. D. Marrero Enterprises 1/3/2020 46-2020

49. Isla Verde Mining & Development 1/3/2020 47-2020 Corp. 50. Mark Bradley A. Salcedo 5/29/2020 48-2020

51. R J Flores - Rosario 6/18/2020 49-2020

52. Julius Joseph M. Dumpit 10/1/2020 50-2020

53. R J Flores - Naguilian 10/5/2020 51-2020

54. Karlo Flores 11/27/2020 52-2020

• Social Management and Development Program/Community Development Program (SDMP/CDP) The Social Development Section evaluated and issued Certificate of Approval (CA) on twenty-eight (28) SDMP’s for the year against four (4) target for CY 2020 due to new Industrial Sand and Gravel Permit applications.

Certificate Company/ Permit Holder Date Approved Number 154-2020-01I Julius Joseph M. Dumpit March 10, 2020

155-2020-02I Benigno G. Gotoc, Jr. March 11, 2020

156-2020-03I Darwin O. Parilla March 12, 2020

157-2020-04I Stonemason, Inc. March 12, 2020

158-2020-05I Faye C. Navarro August 5, 2020

159-2020-06I Dohreen Jenniebelle A. Baria August 5, 2020

160-2020-07I Ma. Anica Janique T. Castro August 5, 2020

161-2020-08I Mark Rod Aldrich D. Gappi August 5, 2020

162-2020-09I Mary Carmayne A. Macalipis August 5, 2020

163-2020-10I Shineth C. Tamondong August 5, 2020

164-2020-11I Jan Shean G. Garalde August 5, 2020

165-2020-12I SL Harbor Bulk Terminal August 27, 2020

166-2020-13I Baseco Shipyard Corporation August 27, 2020

Elite Marine Construction 167-2020-14I Corporation August 27, 2020

SL Mariveles Drydocking and 168-2020-15I Shipyard August 27, 2020

169-2020-16I Tereita A. Cuevas- September 3, 2020

170-2020-17I Marie Melody M. Zapata- September 3, 2020

171-2020-18I Thomas A. Tan- September 3, 2020

172-2020-19I Sheila Marie A. Ahing- September 3, 2020

173-2020-20I Dennis O. Claudio September 3, 2020

174-2020-21I MG8 Terminal, Inc. September 9, 2020

175-2020-22I Norberto A. Quinones September 9, 2020

176-2020-23I Miguel P. Estrella September 9, 2020

177-2020-24I Narrat Tanker Corporation September 9, 2020

178-2020-25I Carina N. Armarille September 21, 2020

179-2020-26I Rafael A. De Lara September 21, 2020

180-2020-27I Ma. Ceresa D. Reyes September 21, 2020

181-2020-28I Neil Justin D. Odtujan September 21, 2020

• Annual Social Development and Management Program (ASDMP) evaluation and issuance of certificate of approval.

The Section had evaluated and issued Certificate of Approval (CA) on fifty-four (54) ASDMP’s for the period against 56 target for CY 2020. Certificate Company/ Permit Holder Date Approved Number Holcim Mining and December 13, 2019 2020-01-1 Development Corp. Oniol II Development and December 13, 2019 2020-02-1 Aggregates Corp. December 13, 2019 2020-03-1 Mark Bradley A. Salcedo December 13, 2019 2020-04-1 Isabel B. Agusdan December 20, 2019 2020-05-1 N. Canlas Crushing Plant Destiny Mighty Rock December 20, 2019 2020-06-1 Corporation Northwest Luzon Mining December 20, 2019 2020-07-1 Corporation December 20, 2019 2020-08-1 Sable Le Varge, Inc. December 20, 2019 2020-09-1 Heirs of Elias E. Olegario December 20, 2019 2020-10-1 Feliz P. Sanchez December 20, 2019 2020-11-1 Dalia B. Dizon December 20, 2019 2020-12-1 Ephraim R. Balitao December 20, 2019 2020-13-1 Benito Y. Co December 23, 2019 2020-14-1 Nelson C. Chan December 19, 2019 2020-15-1 Flor T. Lagang December 19, 2019 2020-16-1 Joseph L. Chua December 19, 2019 2020-17-1 Melchor S. De Leon December 23, 2019 2020-18-1 Ramoncito Tan December 23, 2019 2020-19-1 Mae Ann Chua December 19, 2019 2020-20-1 Erna Tiu December 23, 2019 2020-21-1 Edison Tiu December 19, 2019 2020-22-1 Maechellenie Café December 23, 2019 2020-23-1 Joan Palanog December 23, 2019 2020-24-1 Myra R. Cruz December 23, 2019 2020-25-1 Betty N. Chua

December 23, 2019 2020-26-1 Alice Chua December 23, 2019 2020-27-1 Alma Kho December 23, 2019 2020-28-1 Omnico Natural Resources, Inc. December 23, 2019 2020-29-1 Antonio Kho December 23, 2019 2020-30-1 Efren Pung tilan December 23, 2019 2020-31-1 Bernardina Talan December 19, 2019 2020-32-1 Ramon Chua December 23, 2019 2020-33-1 Adoracion Ceperiano December 23, 2019 2020-34-1 Ferdinand Obis December 23, 2019 2020-35-1 Edmund Mendones December 23, 2019 2020-36-1 Judy Tan December 23, 2019 2020-37-1 JN Rocks Aggregates December 23, 2019 2020-38-1 William K. Dy December 23, 2019 2020-39-1 Northern Cement Corporation December 23, 2019 2020-40-1 Mathew O. Liis December 23, 2019 2020-41-1 A.D. Marrero Enterprises December 23, 2019 2020-42-1 Northpoint Aggregates, Inc. December 23, 2019 2020-43-1 George C. Aquino December 23, 2019 2020-44-1 Sir Rey C. Villapando Isla Verde Mining and December 23, 2019 2020-45-1 Development Corp. January 3, 2020 2020-46-1 Conrado V. Ignacio June 4, 2020 2020-47-1 RJ Flores Construction- Rosario Julius Joseph M. Dumpit September 29, 2020 2020-48-1 2020-49-1 RJ Flores Construction- Naguilian October 7, 2020

2020-50-1 Karlo D. Flores November 16, 2020

• Annual Safety and Health Program (ASHP) The Mine Safety and Health Section (MSHS) had evaluated fifty-four (54) Safety and Health Programs for CY 2020. The results of review and evaluation of the submitted ASHP’s, some that were found out to be in order were recommended for approval and ASHPs that needs additional information to be incorporated/presented/included in the program were returned to the concerned company for revision.

CA Number Permit Holder/ Company Date Approved SHP-2020- 1.Northern Cement December 20, 2019 RO1-001 Corporation

SHP-2020- 2.Northpoint Aggregates, Inc. December 23, 2019 RO1-002 3.Conrado Ignacio/ Naguilian SHP-2020- Aggregates and Development December 23, 2019 RO1-003 Corporation SHP-2020- 4.N. Canlas Crushing Plant December 23, 2019 RO1-004 SHP-2020- December 23, 2019 RO1-005 5. Ephraim R. Balitao SHP-2020- 6.Delia B. Dizon December 23, 2019 RO1-006 SHP-2020- 7.A.D. Marrero Enterprises December 23, 2019 RO1-007 SHP-2020- 8.Northwest Luzon Mining December 23, 2019 RO1-008 Corp. 9-10. Holcim Mining and SHP-2020- Development Corporation- December 23, 2019 RO1-009 Pangasinan Operations 11-13. Holcim Mining and SHP 2020- Development Corporation- La December 23, 2019 RO1-010 Union Operations SHP-2020- 14.Isabel B. Agusdan December 23, 2019 RO1-011 SHP-2020- 15.Sable le Varge December 23, 2019 RO1-012 SHP-2020- 16.Isla Verde Development RO1-013 and Mining Corp. December 23, 2019 SHP-2020- 17.Felix P. Sanchez December 23, 2019 RO1-014 SHP-2020- 18.Benito Co/ Master Rock December 26, 2019 RO1-015 Aggregates Corp. SHP-2020- 19.Sir Rey Villapando December 26, 2019 RO1-016 SHP-2020- 20.William K. Dy December 26, 2019 RO1-017 SHP-2020- 21.Heirs of Elias E. Olegario December 26, 2019 RO1-018 SHP-2020- 22.Omnico Natural Resources, December 27, 2019 RO1-019 Inc. SHP-2020- 23.Flor T. Lagang December 27, 2019 RO1-020

SHP-2020- 24.Joseph L. Chua December 27, 2019 RO1-021 SHP-2020- 25.Melchor S. De Leon December 27, 2019 RO1-022 SHP-2020- 26.Ramoncito Tan December 27, 2019 RO1-023 SHP-2020- 27.Mae Ann L. Chua December 27, 2019 RO1-024 SHP-2020- 28.Erna C. Tiu December 27, 2019 RO1-025 SHP-2020- 29.Edison C. Tiu December 27, 2019 RO1-026 SHP-2020- 30.Maechelleine P. Cafe December 27, 2019 RO1-027 SHP-2020- 31.Joan B. Palanog December 27, 2019 RO1-028 SHP-2020- 32.Myra R. Cruz December 27, 2019 RO1-029 SHP-2020- 33.Betty N. Chua December 27, 2019 RO1-030 SHP-2020- 34.Alice L. Chua December 27, 2019 RO1-031 SHP-2020- 35.Alma L. Kho December 27, 2019 RO1-032 SHP-2020- 36.Antonio L. Kho December 27, 2019 RO1-033 SHP-2020- 37.Efren M. Pungtilan December 27, 2019 RO1-034 SHP-2020- 38.Bernardina R. Talan December 27, 2019 RO1-035 SHP-2020- 39.Ramon Chua December 27, 2019 RO1-036 SHP-2020- 40.Adoracion M. Ceperiano December 27, 2019 RO1-037 SHP-2020- 41.Ferdinand Obis December 27, 2019 RO1-038 SHP-2020- 42.Edmund Mendones December 27, 2019 RO1-039 SHP-2020- 43.Judy C. Tan December 27, 2019 RO1-040 SHP-2020- 44.Joseph L. Gomez(Lorelein January 02, 2020 RO1-041 Carpio) SHP-2020- 45.Mark Bradley A. Salcedo January 02, 2020 RO1-042 SHP-2020- 46. Mathew O. Liis January 02, 2020 RO1-043 SHP-2020- 47. Destiny Mighty Rock Corp. January 02, 2020 RO1-044 SHP-2020- 48.Oniol II Dev’t and Agg. January 02, 2020 RO1-045 Corp. SHP-2020- 49. George C. Aquino/GCAF January 02, 2020 RO1-046 C.P. SHP-2020- 50.RJFlores Construction January 02, 2020 RO1-047 (Rosario) SHP-2020- 51.Nelson Chan/NCChan January 02, 2020 RO1-048 Aggregates and Supplies

SHP-2020- 52. RJ Flores Naguilian October 26, 2020 RO1-049 SHP-2020- 53. Karlo D. Flores October 26, 2020 RO1-050 SHP-2020- RO1-051 54. Julius Joseph Dumpit November 25, 2020

Photos showing the guidelines/protocols of Northern Cement Corporation ensuring that the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic is controlled on the resumption of mining operations during the General Community Quarantine (GCQ) or New Normal, all activities are in-lined on the accomplishment of their Safety and Health Program. The following accomplishments were additionally implemented during the 3rd quarter:

• Installation of health checkpoints • Installation of wash area • Mandatory RT-PCR/Swab test to visitors/employee entering the company premises. • Vehicle disinfection areas.

Photos showing the commitment of Delta Earthmoving, Inc. (service contractor) of NCC on the posting of signages informing the health controls of COVID-19 and procurement of adequate Personal Protective equipment (PPE) (e.g. Social distancing, provision of disinfectants to all working stations, wearing of facemasks, etc.)

Photo showing HMDC’s Employees/personnel reporting for work are subjected to thermal scanning/monitoring based on 37.5°C temperature. Filing-up of health declaration forms is required for visitors/employees.

Also, necessary medical equipment, and supplies and materials such as thermal scanners, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) (e.g. masks, gloves) and sanitizers/disinfectants (e.g. alcohol, handwash solutions) is provided as part of their Safety and Health Program.

Safety and Health Programs accomplishments of ISAG Permit Holders

Photo showing the STRICT adherence of ISAG Permit Holders to social distancing measures during safety and health monitoring activities.

Permit Holders also initiated the posting of safety signages for Information Education Campaigns (IEC’s) and the provision of barriers and hand sanitizers to office workstations during the period of COVID-19 pandemic.

Photo showing the implementation on the procurement and issuance of over the counter medicines and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for employees.

Development of Small-Scale Mining - Assistance to Provincial/City Mining Regulatory Board (P/CMRB)/ LGUs/ Other Stakeholders

• Inventory of People’s Small Scale Mining (PSSM)/ Minahang Bayan (MB) Areas, and Quarry/Sand and Gravel (SAG)/ Small Scale Mining Sites (SSM)

Inventory of People’s Small Scale Mining (PSSM)/ Minahang Bayan (MB) Areas, and Quarry/Sand and Gravel (SAG)/ Small Scale Mining Sites (SSM) in the four (4) provinces were submitted for the year.

• Proposed Minahang Bayan Sites Identified The area of interest has been the subject of intensive geological surveys funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency in 1976.

In 1994, a follow – up survey consisting of geological and geo-chemical by investigations was conducted by MGB personnel.

AREA: BRGYs. SAN JOSE, SAN MACARION AND CACANDUNGAN, NATIVIDAD, PANGASINAN

GENERAL GEOLOGY: The area has been the subject of intensive geological surveys funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency in 1976.

The surveyed area is underlain by four ( 4) distinct rock types/formation, namely:

1. Pugo Formation. 2. Zigzag Formation. 3. Diorite Intrusive, and 4. Terrace Gravel/Alluvium

MINERALIZATION: Precious metallic mineral is consist of gold which occurs as disseminations in quartz veins and silicified contact zones of diorite and sediments located at San Jose and San Macario.

The mineralization in the area is attributed to the series of magmatic activity estimated to be of Pliocene to Pleistocene age.

• Proposed Minahang Bayan Sites Endorsed to DENR Through MGBCO

Proposed Minahang Bayan Sites Endorsed

AREA : Brgy. Calitlitan, Umingan, Pangasinan

The area was assessed to have economic deposits of high-grade white clay, and its eventual development and commercial utilization/disposal thru community-bases undertaking shall centainly redound to the benefit of the target beneficiaries .

• P/CMR B mainta ined/o perati onaliz ed/rec onstitut ed

Four (4) Provincial City/ Mining Regulatory Board (P/CMRB) were maintained and operationaliz ed namely:

1. P MRB-Ilocos Norte; 2. PMRB-Ilocos Sur; 3. PMRB-La Union; and 4. PMRB-Pangasinan.

• P/CMRB Meetings conducted/participated

• P/CMRB Meetings conducted/participated

• In accordance with Section 70 of DAO-2010-21, the Provincial City/ Mining Regulatory Board (P/CMRB), accepts, processes and evaluates applications for Quarry, Sand and Gravel, Guano, Gemstone gathering and determines, among others, administrative charges and fees in relation thereto.

• The Regional Director, who acts as Chairman of PMRB and his technical support staff attended a total of eighteen (18) PMRB meetings in the four (4) Provinces within the jurisdiction of MGB-REGION I.

• Deliberation of applications for sand and gravel/ quarry permits was being undertaken to come up with a recommendation thru a resolution to the concerned Provincial Governor for approval. Other related mining issues/conflicts, were likewise being tackled during the PMRB meeting.

PMRB Meetings attended at the Province of La Union and Pangasinan.

MINING INDUSTRY AND DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM

Monitoring/Audit of Mining Permits/Contracts/Leases/Claims/JOAs (including those within Mineral Reservations) as to compliance with the Terms and Conditions/Requirements and implementation of approved Work Program/Safety, Health, Environmental and Social Development Programs

• MONITORING OF WORK PROGRAM

Tenements Compliance Monitoring

Sixty-One (61) tenement holders were monitored for the year, it includes Forty- One (41) Industrial Sand and Gravel Permits sixteen (16) are Mineral Production Sharing Agreement, one (1) Financial or Technical Assistance Agreement, three (3) Mineral Processing Permit.

January

The Section conducted Tenement Compliance Monitoring on the 22 Industrial Sand and Gravel Permits held and operated by Omnico Natural Resources, Inc. all located along Laoag (Padsan) River within the municipality of Sarrat, Ilocos Norte.

The monitoring team commends the full compliance of 20 of the 22 permit holders in the implementation of the approved work program, submission of reportorial requirements, maintenance of facilities, observance of employment equity and presentation of relevant records pursuant to the compliance to other terms and conditions of the permit.

There were no activities within the permit areas of Messrs. Ramon Chua and Ramoncito Tan thus failing to implement their approved work programs.

The TSHES monitoring team verified and inspected the active quarry. During the inspection, it was observed that the operator conducted uniform depth of extraction.

The MTSS members of the TSHES Compliance Monitoring team discussed their findings with Engr. Roque Palmes of ONRI.

February

Five (5) permit holders were monitored for the month of February, the following are Efraim Balitao, N Canlas Construction and Delia Dizon (February 5 to 7, 2020) and Joseph Gomez and Mathew Liis (February 19 - 21). During the compliance

moni toring, it was observed that all permit holders, except for Mathew Liis, who was able to submit 1st and 2nd Quarter report, did not submit their Quarterly Energy Consumption Report. Furthermore, submission of Monthly Production Reports of Efraim Balitao, N Canlas Construction and Delia Dizon were forwarded to ENRO- NRRG Province of Pangasinan and not submitted directly to the MGB.

As to their Fiscal Obligations, proofs of payment were not provided immediately

The compliance of the five (5) permits with regards to their implementation of the approved Five-year Work Program were below average. Also, they were not able to provide annual operating cost in relation to their financial implementations. Annual extraction of Joseph Gomez and N. Canlas Crushing Plant were more than the allowable volume stipulated in their ECCs.

It is therefore recommended that a technical conference must be conducted for them to be informed of the result of the monitoring and for them to be reminded of their compliances and implementations. Moreover, it will also serve as an avenue for new permit holders to be oriented of their obligations especially on the submission of their reportorial requirements.

The TSHES monitoring team conducted an entry conference with Engr. Richardford Soriano, technical personnel of N. Canlas Crushing Plant and Ms. Elena C. Mercado, proprietor of N. Canlas Crushing Plant. The purpose, scope and parameters of the monitoring were discussed.

During the monitoring of N. Canlas, it was noted that the stationary crushing plant with a rated capacity of 50 TPH was found standing but non-operational.

The construction of the processing plant of Mr. Mathew Liis has been completed last January 2020 and has started its test run early February of 2020.

The method of quarrying of Mr. Joseph Gomez was systematic although the depth of extraction was approximately two meters deep. As per Engr. Guevarra, representative of the permit holder, unwanted materials were present on the topmost portion thus extraction was more than 1.5 meters.

March

Three (3) permit holders were monitored for the month of March, the following are Isabel B. Agusdan, A.D. Marrero Enterprise and George C. Aquino (March 4 to 6, 2020).

Isabel Agusdan's permit was issued by this Office on December 10, 2019. Therefore, most of the parameters to determine their level of compliance were not applicable. A Cease and Desist Order was also issued to the proponent on February 18, 2020 by the Multipartite Monitoring Team due to their unsystematic quarrying and spillage from the settling ponds.

On the other hand, A. D. Marrero and George Aquino were fairly compliant to their implementation of approved Five Year Work program except that A. D. Marrero's crushing plant was not operational although it is well constructed. The former also employs mechanized and manual (pala-pala) extraction. Moreover, Aquino's present quarry operation was outside its permit area.

As to their fiscal obligations, all permit holders were not able to present proof or evidence of their payments during the monitoring.

Both Isabel Agusdan and George Aquino failed to show some proof of submission of their reports.

• (George Aquino - no 3rd and 4th Quarter Energy Consumption Report and March, June, October, November and December Monthly Production report: • Isabel Agusdan - Monthly Production report for December and 4th quarter energy consumption report)

The Monitoring team recommends for a technical conference to be conducted for them to be informed of the result of the monitoring and to remind them of their compliances and implementations. Rectification of the Five-Year Work Program is also recommended. Targets on the Work Program should be aligned with the actual operations.

No quarry operation was being conducted by Isabel Agusdan during the time of monitoring due to the CDO issued by MMT.

A.D. Marrero utilized a Backhoe in the extraction of materials. After which, the materials undergo the screening through a stationary screen.

Engr. Collado and Engr. Orteza interviewed Ms. Emma Jean Fabro, representative of Mr. George Aquino, on their compliance to the submission of reportorial requirements. Validation of other pertinent documents ensued after the interview.

On March 16, 2020, the President of the Philippines, under Proclamation No. 922 series of 2020, declared a State of Public Health Emergency throughout the Philippines due to Corona Virus Disease 2019 (Covid-19) consequently imposing Enhanced Community Quarantine throughout Luzon. All scheduled compliance monitoring from March 17 to June 26 were all compressed in the month of June 2020 hence a virtual compliance monitoring ensued.

T he Monitoring and Technical Services Section decided to conduct a Virtual Monitoring in validating the performance of all remaining targets instead of physical monitoring. Virtual monitoring was opted due to border restrictions and in order to avoid contact and infection of Covid-19 and to avert jeopardizing the health of the monitoring team.

The first phase of the Virtual Monitoring was the permit holder/contractor’s submission of documents relevant to the Tenement Monitoring Checklist. After which is the review and assessment of all documents at hand, available resources and emailed reports, proof of payment of taxes and fees, pertinent document, and latest photos of operation, equipment and facilities. During the course of evaluation, pertinent supporting documents which were deemed necessary were also requested to be tendered. The final phase was the conduct of a Zoom Meeting with the representative of the permit holder to present the results of the virtual monitoring.

Virtual monitoring is not as accurate as actual monitoring, particularly with respect with respect to operation

June and July

Virtual monitoring was concluded to two (2) Mineral Processing Permit, two (2) Mineral Production Sharing Agreement and one (1) Industrial Sand and Gravel Permit for the month of June and July. Virtual monitoring was conducted to validate their performance on the four parameters. Base on the monitoring, the following were observed.

North West Luzon Mining Corporation (MPP No. 12-001) and Sable Le Varge, Inc. (MPP 12-002) - the monitoring team commends the full compliance of the two Mineral Processing Permits in their implementation of the approved work program, submission of reportorial requirements, payment of fiscal obligations and provision of other relevant records pursuant to the compliance to other terms and conditions of the permit and other rules, regulations and laws. However, Sable Le Varge has one late submission of Monthly Report on Production Sales and Inventory of Sand and Gravel and Employment thus, a fine of Php 1,160.00 shall be imposed.

Destiny Mighty Rock Corporation (IP No, 02-002) was found to have a lot of infractions during the virtual monitoring. The Permit Holder has exceeded its allowable annual volume of 50,000 cubic meters as stipulated in their ECC No. 93-ECC-01-LU-012 and has extracted a total volume of 75,595.49. Furthermore,

the method of quarrying differs from what was indicated in the work program. A fine was of Php 10,000.00 shall be imposed to the permit holder for non- submission of report on production, sales and inventory for the month of April.

Full compliance to the four parameters was implemented by Heirs of Elias E. Olegario (MPSA 200 - 2004 - I) yet it was noted that the processing operation was not included in Three-Year Work Program. It was therefore recommended for the inclusion of the following upon their submission of new Work Program: list of mill equipment and their rated capacities, process flow and its discussion, schedule of operations, annual budget for processing, employment data and plant layout.

Interim Three-Year Work program was reviewed for Northern Cement Corporation (MPSA 106 - 1998 - I) since no approved program was endorsed. During the review, it is recommended for a revision of the submitted Three Year Work Program since the monitoring team cannot determine the targets of the contractor. Compliance with the timely submission of report were attained except for one late submission. A fine of Php 1,130.00 shall be imposed to the contractor.

August

For the month of August, virtual monitoring was concluded to one (1) Mineral Production Sharing Agreement and four (4) Industrial Sand and Gravel Permit. As per Virtual monitoring, the following were observed.

Gulf Estates Mining Corporation (GEMCOR) denominated as MPSA 164-2000-1 was approved on September 26, 2000. The contractor has already completed its reconnaissance and semi-detailed geological exploration during its 1st and 2nd Year of exploration period. However, during the its 3rd year and final exploration period, which was granted on December 2009, GEMCOR was not able to continue its exploration activity due to force majeur (encroachment of Alaminos International Airport which is within contract area). It was then recommended by the MGB Central Office for the contractor to file for its 4th and final exploration period and to relinquish the 158.50 hectares airport project. To date, the contractor has begun talks with other potential partners/ clients/ investors who had expressed their interest on the limestone resources in the tenement. Moreover, GEMCOR is focusing on completing all requirements for the filing of the renewal of their final exploration period.

Full compliance to the four parameters of the tenements monitoring was attained by North Point Aggregates denominated as IP 96 -001 except for its late submission of 1st to 3rd Quarter Energy Consumption Report which amounted to a total fine of Php 15,270.00

Most of the parameters to determine the level of compliance of R.J. Flores Construction denominated as IP No. 13 - 001 are not yet applicable since the permit was only issued on December 9, 2019. Nonetheless, the monitoring team considers the depth of extraction to be more than two meters based on the recent pictures of the MMT which was conducted on Aug. 4, 2020. Boulders were also left along the river system thus unsystematic quarrying is concluded. The capacity of its existing plant diverges ECC-RO1-1203-0040.

The operations of the Industrial Sand and Gravel Permit of Felix P. Sanchez, denominated as IP 13-003, has exceeded its annual extraction rate of 74,000 metric tons or 46,250 cubic meters based on a specific gravity of 1.6. The percentage of accomplishment for its Production Volume is 105.51%. Apart from the over extraction, no other infractions were observed.

A Suspension Order was issued to Benito Y. Co, denominated as IP 1-0040-97, by the MMT for failing to establish its Trust Funds from June to October 2019 yet production was still being endured based on their notarized Production reports. The permit holder also failed to submit its reportorial requirements which corresponds to a total fine of Php 114,880.00. Some proof of payments was not also provided to the monitoring team. Over-all, Benito Co has poor compliance to the four parameters of the monitoring.

September

Virtual monitoring was concluded to two (2) Mineral Production Sharing Agreement and two (2) Industrial Sand and Gravel Permit for the month of September. As per Virtual monitoring, the following were observed.

The operations of the Industrial Sand and Gravel Permit of William Dy in Hacienda, Bugallon, Pangasinan denominated as IP 01-001 has been impeded since the month of May 2019. Stoppage of operations is due to the complaint of a certain Federick C. Teodoro, president of Odosprime Corporation, over the area of the permit holder. The former claims that a private area is within the permit area of Mr. William Dy. Submission of Care and Maintenance Program has been considered by the permit holder until the issue on the private lot has resolved.

Heirs of Conrado V. Ignacio, denominated as IP No. 92-002 is compliant to the four parameters. It was noted during the monitoring that the Heirs of Conrado Ignacio would like to transfer the permit to Naguilian Development Corporation (NADECO). In that case, Extra Judicial Settlement with simultaneous Deed of Assignment in favor of NADECO should be executed.

The two Mineral Production Sharing Agreement Contractors namely Rigid Aggregates and Mining Corporation and Marble Mining Exploration Corporation are both under exploration stage. To date, the two contractors have not applied for renewal of their exploration period.

October

For the month of October, the monitoring team conducted Tenements Compliance Monitoring to the five (5) MPSA of Holcim Mining and Development Corporation (HMDC) and Industrial Sand and Gravel Permit of Sir Rey VIllapando.

During the monitoring, it was noted that MPSA 295 and 042, both located in the Municipality of Agno, Province of Pangasinan, are under Care and Maintenance Program. MPSA 236 and 238 of HMDC are operational. Upon review, these two MPSA are compliant.

HMDC has not conducted any operations/development in MPSA 043 thus the contractor failed to implement its Three-Year Work Program.

Most of the parameters to determine the level of compliance of Sir Rey VIllapando denominated as IP No. 02 - 2019 are not yet applicable since the permit was only issued on September 19, 2019.

November

Both Cunickel Mining and Industrial Corporation and Oregon Mining and Development Corporation, denominated as MPSA 145-99-I and MPSA 165-2000- I, respectively, are supposedly under application for renewal of Exploration Period. However, the status of both MPSA was not determined by the monitoring since no representatives adhered to the request of monitoring team for exit conference.

The Industrial Sand and Gravel Permit of Nelson Chan and the Mineral Processing Permit of Isla Verde Mining and Development Corporation were found to be compliant

December

The monitoring team conducted Tenements Compliance Monitoring on four (4) MPSA, all under exploration period, 1 (one) Financial or Technical Assistance Agreement and 2 (two) Industrial Sand and Gravel Permits for the month of December.

Virtual Monitoring was undertaken to validate the performance of the tenement holder through documents at hand and available resources. All tenement holders reviewed this month did not respond to any of the letter- notices sent by this Office on the conduct of Virtual Monitoring. Furthermore, no submission of pertinent documents as compliance to the virtual monitoring was made by the tenement holders.

Shuley Mine, Inc denominated as MPSA 224-2005-I has filed an application for renewal on March 28, 2016. However, MGB Central Office MGBCO was constrained to return the said application including the pertinent documents, with the advice that it be filed in MGB CO together with the complete mandatory acceptance requirements, copy furnished MGB Regional Office I. To date, this Office has not been copy furnished of the application for renewal of exploration period of the contractor.

Two Deed of Assignment (DOA) were submitted in this Office concerning Heirs of Napoleon R. Navato (Deed of Assignment with Cal-Phil Builders and Management Corporation and Conditional Assignment with Multicon Mines and Metals Corporation). There appears to be a stalement between the Heirs of Napoleon Navato and the two parties involved in the DOA. Since the case of the two DOA is with the court, the prospect of continuing the exploration works within the Contract Area depends on the outcome of the court litigation. It is therefore recommended for the contractor to comply with the statutory requirements of the MPSA.

The status of Discovery Mines Inc. cannot be determined since the MGB CO has endorsed its cancellation to the DENR through Memorandum dated October 19, 2015 and as of this monitoring, update from DENR has not been received by this Office.

Following the information given by MGB CO during the October 1, 2020 audit exit conference, the monitoring team considered the exploration period of Investwell Resources, Inc. as status quo. Thus, their compliance was not determined during the monitoring.

The Financial or Technical Assistance Agreement of Altamina Exploration and Resources, Inc. is still under process of perfecting and completing all requirements for the renewal of their exploration period. Therefore, most of the parameters in the monitoring checklist were deemed not applicable.

Oniol II Development and Aggregates Corporation's Industrial Sand and Gravel Permit was issued on December 06, 2019. Apart from non-response to the letter notice on the conduct of virtual monitoring which deemed most of the items as not determined, the parameters in the monitoring checklist were mostly not applicable.

The Industrial Sand and Gravel Permit of Mark Bradley Salcedo was deemed non-compliant. No operation was conducted, and no reports were submitted by the by the permit holder. A suspension letter was forwarded to Mr. Salcedo for non-compliance to the following requirements and obligations of the permit. Moreover, the MRFC Pangasinan - Group IV agreed to withdraw the membership of Mr. Salcedo from the committee.

• INTEGRATED-SAFETY, HEALTH, ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM MONITORING

Relative to the physical and financial compliance of their approved Environmental Enhancement and Protection Programs/Annual Environmental Enhancement and Protection Programs, establishment of environmental funds and submission of periodic reports. This represents a 92.42% accomplishment against annual target.

The monitored areas involved one (1) Financial and/or Technical Assistance Agreement, sixteen (16) Mineral Production Sharing Agreement, three (3) Mineral Processing Permit and forty-one (41) Industrial Sand and Gravel Permit.

Limestone quarry area of MPSA No. 236-007-I (left) and rehabilitated area of MPSA No. 238-2007-I (right) both of Holcim Mining and Development Corporation in Bacnotan, La Union.

Photo with the representative of Mr. Joseph Gomez and barangay officials inspected the jetmatic pump provided by the permit holder to barangay Casaratan, San Nicolas, Pangasinan

Photo taken with the representatives of Mr. George C. aquino at the concreted of barangay road of brgy. Namalangan, Santa Ilocos Sur

Cow dispersal of Omnico Natural Resources, Inc at brgy. San Isidro, Sarrat, Ilocos Norte.

Installation of street lights in Sitio Lingsat, Badoc, Ilocos, Norte by Omnico Natural Resources, Inc.

Provision of Billboard as IEC materials by Omnico Natural Resources ,Inc.

Provis ion of construction materials for the beautification of the barangay hall of Inmalog, Sison, Pangasinan

Provision of construction materials for the lavatory of Child Development Center in Calunetan, Sison, Pangasinan

Construction materials were provided by Mr. Nelson C. Chan for building the multi-purpose hall of the Brgy. Caulasan. Sta. Maria, Pangasinan.

• Maintenance of the barangay road in Maseil-seil, Pangasinan by Oniol II ASDMP project for infrastructure.

Provision of construction materials office equipment for the improvement of barangay hall of Labayug, Sison, Pangasinan.

Occupational Safety and Health Inspection (OSHI) Occupational Safety and Health Inspection is divided into two (2) activities the Quarterly conduct of OSHI for three (3) large scale mining companies namely: Holcim Mining and Development Corp. (HMDC) comprising of 5 MPSA areas, Northern Cement Corporation (NCC) and Heirs of Elias E. Olegario and the Semestral conduct of OSHI to all MGB1 issued Permit Holders. Some of the

sche dule d OSHI from 1st to 4th quarters were conducted via virtual sessions as field inspections were restricted and the scheduled fieldworks due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

For the 1st and 2nd semester, this Section accomplished fifty-eight (58) and sixty- one (61) respectively, with a total of one-hundred nineteen (119) for CY 2020.

Photo showing the monitoring of drilling Photo showing the inspection of pre- operations at Northern Cement Corp. start checklist to heavy equipment conducted by the service contractor prior to starting the unit. Delta Earthmoving Inc.

Photo showing the inspection of adequate illumination of tower lights deployed to active work areas during night shifts and perimeter lightings at the new explosives’ magazine.

Photo showing the inspection of fire fighting equipment. All fire extinguishers should be in good condition and regularly inspected.

Photo showing the inspection of Photo showing the virtual inspections vehicles transporting employee/s on conducted during the first and second quarry access roads on the strict semester. wearing of seatbelt and provision of seats.

VALIDATION OF MINE WASTE AND/OR MILL TAILINGS GENERATED (MW/MTG)

The validation of MW/MTG reports exacted a 100% accomplishment. The activity involved the Semi-annual MW/MTG reports of Northern Cement Corporation, Heirs of Elias E. Olegario and Holcim Mining and Development Corporation – La Union covering the periods June - December 2019 and January to June 2020.

Validation of mine waste at HEEO and HMDC-LU

Mechanical and Electrical Inspections and Permits Issuance

This activity is client dependent and technical inspection is conducted annually based on the date of issuance of the Mechanical and Electrical Permits and Certificate.

For CY 2020 this Section conducted twenty-three (23) ME/EE inspections on mining companies and permit holders with a total of one-hundred eleven (111) permits and certificates were issued.

COMPANIES WITH ISSUED ME/EE PERMITS AND CERTIFICATES

No. No. Permits Company/Permittee Issued 1 Philex Mining Corporation – Poro Point Installations 7 2 Isabel B. Agusdan 3 3 Joseph L. Gomez/Jn Rock Aggregates 2 4 Nelson Chan/NCChan Aggregates and Supplies 3 5 Conrado V. Ignacio/ Naguilian Aggregates and Dev. Corp. 4 6 Oniol II Development and Aggregates Corporation 2 7 Benito Y. Co/ Master Rock Aggregates Co. 4 8 North West Luzon Mining Corporation 2 9 Northpoint Aggregates, Inc. 3 10 Destiny Mighty Rock Corporation Plant 1 and 2 4 11 Mathew O. Liis 2 12 Holcim Mining and Development Corporation (HMDC). 9 13 Heirs of Elias E. Olegario (HEEO) 3 14 RJFlores Construction – Rosario Plant 2 15 Omnico Natural Resources, Inc. (ONRI) 18 16 George C. Aquino/GCAF Crushing Plant 4 17 Oniol II Dev’t And Aggregates Corp./Shyne Trading and Supplies 3 18 Sable Le Varge, Inc. 2 19 Greater Good Aggregates/Felix P. Sanchez 3 20 RJFlores Construction Naguilian (Plant 1 And 2) 4 21 Isla Verde Mining and Development Corp. 15 22 Northern Cement Corporation (NCC) 12

P hoto showing the inspection of electrical Photo showing the inspection of panel boards, switches and control room. conveyors systems.

Photo showing the evaluation of Photo showing a transformer station electrical plans. needed to be installed with a perimeter fence.

Photo showing the inspection of electric motors and mechanical drives on the provision of machine guardings.

Photo shwoing the inspection of tower lights (internal combustion engine)

Explosive Magazine Inspection Northern Cement Corporation (NCC) utilizes explosives in limestone quarrying. The conduct of inspection is done quarterly. As such, the MSHS had already accomplished four (4) inspections for CY 2020. The subject areas of inspection are at the explosive magazines, explosive transport trucks and blasting areas.

Photo showing the inspection at the old explosives magazine of Northern Cement Corporation (1st and 2nd Qtr)

The office also conducted an inspection in response to the letter of Northern Cement Corporation dated June 17, 2020 requesting for an inspection/verification of the structures of their new explosive magazines on June 18-19,2020 located at Brgy. Labayug, Sison, Pangasinan and the approval of the transfer of all their explosives from the old to the new magazines.

The results of inspection showed that the new explosive magazines were built in accordance with the specifications in Appendix H and the safety rules and regulations (for Construction of Magazines) of DENR AO No. 2000-98. As such, the undersigned recommends for the APPROVAL OF TRANSFER of explosives and its ingredients of NCC from the old to the newly constructed magazines.

Photo showing the new explosives magazine of Norther Cement Corporation (NCC)

Photos taken during the inspection.

Magazines were kept securely locked Deposit box outside the gate where the with flammable materials such as lighters at least two (2) door padlocks. and

matches could be deposited

INVESTIGATION OF COMPLAINTS/CASES/CONFLICTS

• Complaints/cases/conflicts investigated/resolved by MGBROI

This Office gives proper attention and timely - respond to complaints directly filed by concerned individuals or those which appeared on social media.

1. Through Hotline 8888 which was forwarded to this on January 06, 2020, Mr. David Patungan complained NCC for mining his titled private property located at Barangay Labayug, Sison, Pangasinan without compensation despite his willingness to sell to the company. During the investigation conducted, quarry manager of NCC Engr. Alfredo D. Ballesteros, Jr. informed that the documents of Mr. Patungan over his claimed private property is “spurious” upon due diligence exerted by their company to verify their authenticity in pursuit of NCC’s plan to purchase the property. As a result of the investigation, it was found out that there are two conflicting rights for consideration. One is the “Mining Rights” of NCC over its “Contract Area”, a part of it is being claimed by Mr. Patungan. Second is the “Surface Rights” of Mr. Patungan over the lot he is claiming as his private property. For this reason, the contending parties were informed that this Office is willing to help as mediator for the possibility of an amicable settlement. Should it fail, either party can file appropriate legal action in court (judicial or quasi- judicial).

With Engr. Alfredo D. Ballesteros, Jr.- Quarry Manager of NCC in his office (wearing Red Polo Shirt and Black Jacket)

2. Through letter received by this Office on February 06, 2020, Mr. Victor G. Cadangen complained that Destiny Mighty Rock Corporation (Destiny)- an ISAG Permittee issued by this Office installed perimeter fence around its permitted area and Crushing Plant thereby constricting the accessway to and from the residences of affected residents including Mr. Cadangen at Camp One (1), Rosario, La Union. During the investigation, Ms. Charmaine Garcia- Manager of Destiny informed that the installation of the fence is to prevent unauthorized individuals passing through the area for safety concerns and due to theft of their scrap materials including the unauthorized dumping of thrash within the silted pond. As a result of the meeting conducted as part of the investigation, Mr. Cadangen requested that Destiny should straighten and move its fence at least one meter towards its Crushing Plant and Stockpile area for a wider accessway of the affected residents. On the part of Destiny, Ms. Garcia agreed in the principle subject to the approval of her boss. To this end, Destiny was reminded that mining activity should not only pro-environment but also pro-people and to resolve the conflict a win-win solution must be considered for mutual co-existence.

During the meeting inside Destiny’s Office.

Fence installed by Destiny around its Stockpile area and Crushing Plant

3. Through electronic mail, Mr. Ricardo John Borloza shared on August 12, 2019 articles on Black Sand Mining from https://coastalcare.org?s=philippines+sand+mining to the Office of the Ombudsman which referred the same to Atty. Adoracion A. agbasa, Officer- in-Charge, Deputy Ombudsman for Luzon for whatever action deem appropriate. On February 21, 2020, the Office of the Regional Executive Director (RED) for the DENR- Regional Office No. 1 received a letter dated January 15, 2020 from Cornelio L. Somido- Deputy Ombudsman for Luzon referring the complaint against Black Sand Mining of Mr. Borloza. On March 03, 2020, said letter with its attachments (print outs of news articles on Black Sand Mining) was received by the Office from the Office of the DENR Region 1 RED. Upon investigation and scrutiny of the complaint, it was found out that the subject of the complaint had long been acted upon. Thus, this Office prepared a Memorandum dated March 11, 2020 informing the concerned Offices that initial investigation showed no black sand mining

activity in the area as reported by then DENR Regional Executive Director Carlito M. Tuballa through Memorandum dated May 2, 2019. In addition, on May 05, 2020, this Office again wrote a letter to Hon. Cornelio L. Somido regarding said complaint of Mr. Borlaza (IC-OL-19-1124) informing that illegal black sand mining in Northern Luzon had long been totally stopped. As proof, photos of the well-coordinated field assessment and investigations in the Provinces of Pangasinan and Ilocos Sur that were carried against Black Sand Mining were attached to the letter and are also hereto copied below.

Confiscated Mobile Equipment which were found intact after monitoring

No process of magnetite sand was noted during the recent inspection in the area

4. On June 24, 2020, this Office received through its Facebook Page from a concerned citizen a forwarded news video clip aired by GMA Regional TV “Balitang Amianan” of an alleged illegal quarrying at Barangay Lareg- Lareg, Malasiqui, Pangasinan by a certain Athena Valdez. In his follow-up message, this concerned citizen identified himself as Mr. Edgar Lucero (Mr. Lucero) further reported that aside from Ms. Valdez, another quarry is also being conducted by a certain Mr. De Guzman. Based from the facts

culled during the interview with the complained parties, it is appearing that the filling materials/ordinary earth extracted by the private contractors from the two (2) quarry sites were or are being used for government projects under the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). Said quarry sites are separately owned by Spouses Mae Antonette V. De Guzman and Jimmy R. de Guzman of Brgy. Lareg- Lareg, Malasiqui, Pangasinan and Ms. Athena Dora Valdez who is the Punong Barangay of Brgy. Taloy, Malasiqui, Pangasinan, respectively. During the investigation, Sps. De Guzman presented a Gratuitous Permit in the name of Engr. Conrado Paragas Aquino with address at Brgy. Lareg- Lareg, Malasiqui, Pangasinan, but without reference to a lot and without a technical description indicated. This is a violation of R.A. No. 7942 and its Implementing Rules and Regulations. A Private Gratuitous Permit should be in the name of the landowner for his/her personal use and must indicate the total area covered by the permit including its technical description and the Certificate of Title Number or Tax Declaration Number of the lot to be quarried. This is for purposes of identification and to prevent the possibility of abuse of its usage to cover any lot of individual who wanted his/her lot to be quarried for a fee at Brgy. Lareg-Lareg, Malasiqui, Pangasinan. Considering that Sps. De Guzman and Punong Barangay Athena Valdez failed to show the appropriate permit for the complained quarrying activities, they were issued a Cease and Desist Order (CDO) by this Office.

Photo of the quarried lots of Spouses de Guzman taken on June 30, 2020 at Brgy. Lareg-Lareg, Malasiqui, Pangasinan with GPS Coordinates: 15°54’32” N, 120°29’58” E.

5. Dredging Activity along Municipal Water of Caoayan, Ilocos Sur

Photo of the quarried lot of Ms. Athena Valdez taken on June 30, 2020 at Lareg-Lareg, Malasiqui, Pangasinan

6. Pursuant to Executive Order No. 6, Series of 2016 Institutionalizing the 8888 Citizens’ Complaint Hotline and Establishing the 8888 Citizens’ Complaint Center, an anonymous individual lodged a complaint on July 18, 2020 regarding an alleged illegal mining activity in Barangay B, Tayug,

P a ngasinan. In said complaint, the anonymous complainant requested for an investigation of the alleged illegal digging near the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) and the Police Station in Tayug, Pangasinan. In relation to said Hotline 8888 complaint, a Sangguniang Bayan (SB) Resolution No. 2020-096 dated July 16, 2020 of the Municipality of Tayug, Pangasinan was received by this Office the subject of which as follows: “A Resolution Requesting the Mines and Geosciences Bureau of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources to Inspect and Investigate the Excavation and Diggins made within the Property of the Bureau of Fire Protection, Tayug, Pangasinan and to Recommend and/or Implement Measures Appropriate therein.” During the interview with BFP Municipal Chief INSP. Corpuz in his Office, he confirmed the digging within the area/property of the BFP Municipal Station of Tayug, Pangasinan accordingly intended as a “cistern”. Aside from the alleged “cistern” which was accordingly the reason for the complained digging, a project was proposed with an approved budget of Php 80,000.00 for the BFP water system and installation of additional fire hydrants including the “relocation of a fire hydrant located at the façade of Tayug Fire Station.” On the day of the interview with INSP. Corpuz, no documents were presented to the Team whether the digging is covered with appropriate permits from the government offices concerned like an Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) or a Certificate of Non-Coverage (CNC) from the Environmental Management Bureau Regional Office No. 1 (EMB R0 1), Clearance from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) because of the presence of the nearby public structures, or Treasure Hunting Permit from the National Museum if it is a treasure hunting activity in accord with Republic Act No. 10066. The reported mineralization of the Municipality of Tayug, Pangasinan does not support the complained illegal mining for the extraction of a possible gold bearing ore or other precious metals viz-a-viz the approximate measurements of the pit hole opening and the vertical depth of the pit. In order not to compromise the structural integrity of the public structures near the complained digging, the pit hole must be immediately backfilled, if not, it should be immediately inspected by the DPWH if indeed the area is viable for the construction of a “cistern” as claimed and for its appropriate recommendation to protect the public structures nearby.

Municipal BFP CHIEF INSP. CORPUZ pointing the covered pit within the property of BFP Tayug, Pangasinan.

Sacks of materials extracted from the pit hole stockpiled beside the BFP Building of Tayug, Pangasinan.

7. Field Validation of the Complaint of Mr. Regino Nicolas, Jr. in Barrientos, Luna, La Union

Illegal Extraction and Disposition of Private Property at Brzgy. Saud, pagudpod, Ilocos Norte

8. On August 11, 2020, this Office received a forwarded mobile text message regarding the complaint of a concerned citizen alleging the existence of illegal quarrying of sand and gravel along the Aringay River of Aringay, La Union by at least forty (40) trucks daily hauling the extracted sand and gravel despite the alleged Cease and Desist Order issued. During the investigation conducted, Mr. Michael Francis B. Sibuma who was also present at the extraction site, stated that said extraction area is part of his permitted area for Commercial Sand and Gravel (CSAG) issued by the Provincial Local Government of La Union. With the use of a portable Global Positioning System (GPS) instrument to determine the location of the extraction area viz-a-viz the location of the CSAG Permitted Area for Mr. Michael Francis Bernal Sibuma, it was found out that the said extraction area is outside the CSAG Permitted Area. For this reason, Mr. Sibuma was advised to immediately stop his operation and transfer to his CSAG Permitted Area that he did. In view of the foregoing, it was recommended that a Criminal Complaint for Theft of Minerals defined and penalized under Section 103 of R.A. 7942 shall be filed against Mr. Michael Francis B. Sibuma before the Provincial Prosecutor’s Office of the Province of La Union by the Provincial Local Government Unit (PLGU) of La Union. This is because said privilege to extract sand and gravel of Mr. Sibuma emanates from said PLGU under the devolution of power empowering the Local Government Units (LGUs) to have control and supervision with respect to the development, utilization and conservation of mineral resources within its jurisdiction. This Office only assisted in the conduct of the investigation by reason of the technical expertise of its personnel. If necessary, the personnel of this Office who assisted the conduct of said investigation could also serve as witnesses in Court.

Photos of the extraction site of Mr. Michael Francis B. Sibuma

On September 24, 2020, this Office received a letter regarding the request for investigation cum complaint of landowners against illegal quarrying within the Aringay River. The landowners are represented through Mrs. Erlinda Z. Gunpran of Sto. Rosario East, Aringay, La Union. In said letter, aside from their objection to the on-going quarrying activities, the private landowners raised the following: A). No public hearing for the purpose of Quarrying Permit; B). They are afraid that their land holdings could be adversely affected by the quarrying activities; C). LGU Aringay enacted Municipal Ordinance No. 2020 establishing a Marine Protected Area, yet the quarrying activity continues unabated; D). Quarrying activities has adverse impact on fishing activities along the River; and E). Quarrying activities could destabilize the Aringay Bridge and the newly constructed flood control projects. During the investigation conducted, the only quarrying activity that was observed along the Aringay River below the Aringay Bridge is the Commercial Sand and Gravel (CSAG) operation of Mr. Michael Francis B. Sibuma covered with a CSAG Permit No. 2020- CSAG-02 for an area of 4.9986 hectares covering the Barangays of Poblacion and Sta Lucia, Aringay, La Union and issued by the Provincial Local Government Unit of the Province of La Union. Based on the technical descriptions of the Marine Protected Area (MPA) established by Ordinance No. 202, Series of 2019 or An Ordinance for the Establishment and Management of the Marine Sanctuary of Aringay and Providing Funds Therefore viz-a-viz the CSAG Permitted area of Mr. Sibuma, the latter is outside and far from the established MPA. Since Mr. Michael Francis B. Sibuma is granted a CSAG Permit, his sand and gravel extraction confined within the permitted area, which must also comply with the terms and conditions of his Permit, is legal. The “public hearing” prior to the issuance of the CSAG Permit is not a requirement under the law, rules and regulations. Among others, only the favorable recommendations/endorsements of the Local Government Units affected under Section 74(b) and the posting of the Notice of Application under Section 76, respectively, of DAO No. 2010-21 are required instead of a public hearing. There being a permit issued, it is presumed that taxes due to the government are paid. One of the control measures as basis for tax collection are the Delivery Receipts (DR) from the Office of the Provincial Treasurer’s Office of the Province of La Union issued to Mr. Sibuma for his daily sales. To enlighten the private complainants and similarly situated regarding their objection to the on-going quarrying activities, an Information and Education Campaign is further recommended to be conducted by this Office regarding the rights and entitlements from

mining companies/ individual permittees and mining activities of the residents along the Aringay River whose lots, livelihood and properties could possibly be endangered and adversely affected by the quarrying activities.

Taken during the meeting in the Mayor’s Office of Aringay, La Union regarding the complaint.

Taken during the investigation on the CSAG Permitted Area of Mr. Michael Francis B. Sibuma.

9. On October 23, 2020, this Office received a Memorandum from the Assistant Regional Director for Management Services, In-Charge, Office of the Regional Executive Director (RED), DENR Regional Office 1 also dated October 23, 2020 regarding the Complaint Letter of Sec. Raul L. Lambino. Attached to said Memorandum is a letter dated 7 July 2020 from Secretary Raul L. Lambino, Presidential Adviser for Northern Luzon addressed to the RED, DENR Regional Office 1 pertaining to his request for immediate action to the “reported illegal quarrying activities in Barangay Anonang, San Fabian, Pangasinan.” On November 10, 2020, the undersigned coordinated with Punong Barangay Josefino Z. De Guzman of Barangay Anonang, San Fabian, Pangasinan for an ocular inspection of the area of the alleged illegal quarrying activities. During the conversation with Punong Barangay De Guzman, he informed the undersigned the following: a). The lot where the alleged illegal quarrying is being conducted is owned by former Mayor De Vera; b). The alleged illegal quarry operators are not paying fees in his Barangay; c). He instructed his Barangay Tanods to stop said illegal quarrying, but they were threatened or intimidated; d). The areas that will be directly affected for the adverse effects of said illegal quarrying are sitios Riverside and Kabaongan, respectively of Barangay Anonang, San Fabian, Pangasinan; e). The said illegal quarrying was ordered stopped by the Honorable Mayor Constante B. Agbayani of San Fabian, Pangasinan with the help of the Philippine National Police (PNP) a week before said coordination; and f). During the existence of said illegal quarry operation, personnel from the Environment and Natural Resources Office (ENRO) of the province of Pangasinan had been visiting the area and witnessed

said illegal quarrying, but nothing they can do due to the intimidating situation. During the investigation at the site of the alleged illegal quarrying, no observed on-going extraction of sand and gravel, but the area has been exhaustedly quarried most particularly the riverbank. As observed and narrated by Punong Barangay De Guzman, Environment and Natural Resources (ENR) enforcement officers particularly from the ENRO Pangasinan who are mostly the first responders in complaints like this can do nothing, but to beg for the quarry operators to stop their illegal activities due to the intimidating situation, and because they feared for their lives and their families’ security. Mostly, these quarry operators are influential and moneyed individuals compared to ENR enforcement officers who only depend from their monthly salaries for their subsistence and from the government for protection but at times failed due to our bureaucratic system. What is more frustrating is that these ENR enforcement officers in their dedication and fear of losing their jobs are oftentimes put unknowingly in a situation advancing the interests of the few and/or warring politicians in their areas of jurisdictions. To have an impact, a cohesive action from the lowest local government unit to the provincial level with the local and national government offices concerned including our law enforcement agencies should be done in the enforcement of our environment and natural resources laws, rules and regulations. Also, giving these ENR enforcement officers at least a chance and dignity to defend themselves in worst case scenario, they should be trained with gun handling and be provided one.

Photo taken inside the residence of Punong Barangay De Guzman (wearing yellow shirt) in Anonang, San Fabian, Pangasinan.

Photos of the area where the reported illegal quarrying conducted is with Geographical Coordinates: Latitude: 16°6’43” N; Longitude: 120°27’27”E.

10. On November 24, 2020, the Office acted on the Complaint letter of Mr. Juanito Dioso against the Punong Barangay of Baritao, Manaoag, Pangasinan for illegal quarrying by conducting an ocular inspection of the area alleged to have been illegally quarried with the complainant then a meeting with the complained party in the person of Punong Barangay Emmanuel M. Angeles. During the ocular inspection of the area, no ongoing quarrying activity was observed, but traces of quarrying are evident. According to the complainant Mr. Dioso who claims that his family (Dioso Family) owns the area, it was their Punong Barangay Emmanuel M. Angeles who quarried their lot without their consent. Mr. Dioso also presented old approved surveys claiming that it covers the area quarried, but this can only be verified by the DENR-Land Management Bureau. On the part of Punong Barangay Angeles, he showed a copy of BARANGAY BARITAO COUNCIL Resolution No. 02, 2020 dated February 17, 2020 requesting the Hon. Gov. Amado Espino III to give them a long-term Gratuitous Permit for the DECLOGGING/ENHANCEMENT of ALORAGAT RIVER and also a copy of the GOVERNMENT GRATUITOUS PERMIT No. 006-2020 for Barangay Baritao, Manaog, Pangasinan issued by Hon. Gov. Espino, III dated March 12, 2020 to extract 5,000 cubic meters of mixed sand and gravel for declogging and river enhancement to avoid soil erosion of river bank and siltation. Unfortunately, said Government Gratuitous Permit is not in accord with Section 73 paragraphs (a) and (B) of DENR Administrative Order No. 2010-21. The Gratuitous Permit itself must indicate the technical descriptions of the covered area to determine whether the area of extraction is confined within its boundaries and for proper monitoring. In this case, there is no way to determine the exact location of the area permitted and its extent which must not exceed 2 hectares for Government Gratuitous Permit because the technical descriptions are not indicated. Gratuitous Permit issued must indicate its period by specifically stating that it shall not exceed one (1) year for Government Gratuitous or sixty (60) calendar days for Private Gratuitous, and not just indicate that it is “co-terminous with the project” because this is vague and ambiguous, such in this case. For this reason, it could be interpreted that the period of GOVERNMENT GRATUITOUS PERMIT No. 006-2020 is perpetual for the fact that declogging and river enhancement to avoid soil erosion of riverbank and siltation is a long-term activity. Government Gratuitous Permit is issued due to the need of the Government entity/instrumentality for quarry, sand and gravel or loose/unconsolidated materials in the construction of building(s) and/or infrastructure for public use or other purposes which is coterminous with the construction of the identified project, and not for declogging and river enhancement to

avoid soil erosion of river bank and siltation. For this purpose, it is submitted that Section 5.3 of the DENR-DPWH- DILG-DoTR JOINT MEMORANDUM CIRCULAR NO. 1, SERIES OF 2019 is the appropriate or applicable provision to implement the said Aloragat River declogging project. This is in consonance with the first WHEREAS clause of the said Barangay Resolution No. 02, 2020 stating as follows: “WHEREAS, Aloragat River needs to declogged to avoid flashfloods along our barangay.” Though it is also stated in the Gratuitous Permit issued that the extracted materials shall be exclusively used for the projects of the Barangay and Municipality, it must also state that the extracted materials shall not be disposed commercially; otherwise, persons responsible thereof shall be liable for prosecution under appropriate laws. In this case, it was admitted by Punong Barangay Angeles that he was issued a Delivery Receipt (DR) in relation to the said Government Gratuitous Permit which is a clear indication that the materials to be extracted are also for commercial utilization.

Photo with Mr. Dioso (wearing yellow T-Shirt) on the area of alleged illegal quarrying.

Photo with Punong Barangay Angeles (wearing White T-Shirt) during the meeting with Mr. Dioso.

11. On December 03, 2020 this Office received a complaint forwarded from the Office of the Regional Executive Director, DENR Regional Office No. 1 regarding the above subject that was received through Facebook by the Development Communication Division of the DENR Central Office. On December 16, 2020, the Office acted on said complaint and conducted an ocular inspection of the area of the alleged illegal quarrying upon coordination with the City Environment and Natural Resources Office of San Carlos City, Pangasinan. There were two (2) quarry sites on private lots in Barangay Tamayo, San Carlos, Pangasinan that were inspected. One is owned by a certain Ben Caranto who is a resident in Metro Manila, but the quarrying stopped when the quarry operator was directed to secure a permit a month ago from date of this investigation. According to Mr. Pablo Ramos who claims that Mr. Caranto is his uncle, the latter wanted that the materials backfilled on his lot from the desilting of the Agno River be removed so that said lot be used for agricultural purposes

the reason why he allowed it to be quarried, though without a permit. The other lot is owned by Mr. Patricio Mayo and Ms. Eufracia Padlan where an ongoing quarrying was observed at the time of the investigation. The quarry operator is Mr. Benjamin DQ. Calugay, Jr. from Brgy. Portic Bugallon, Pangasinan. According to Mr. Calugay, Jr., said lot owners allowed their lot to be developed for agricultural purposes after the removal of materials stockpiled from the desilting of the Agno River. For this reason, he applied for a Private Gratuitous Permit on his name before the ENRO of the Province of Pangasinan. For the said reasons, the Province of Pangasinan particularly the Environment and Natural Resources Office (ENRO)/ Natural Resources Regulatory Group (NRRG) should review the process of acceptance and approval of Private Gratuitous applications to consider the applicant whether he/she is the owner of the lot applied for and to indicate in the Private Gratuitous Permit issued the technical descriptions of the area covered. Likewise, an area verification should be conducted upon acceptance of the application for Private Gratuitous Permit and regular monitoring of the area applied for to make sure that no quarrying activities are being conducted pending consideration of said application; otherwise, the permit applied should be denied and impose appropriate fines and penalties to the applicant for quarrying without permit. In this case, pending consideration of the application for Private Gratuitous Permit, Mr. Calugay, Jr. started his quarrying activities that the extracted materials could already have exceeded the allowable volume in the Gratuitous Permit. Due to the location of the area of said illegal quarrying activities from the Agno River in Brgy. Tamayo, San Carlos City, Pangasinan which is approximately two hundred (200) meters as shown by the hereto attached satellite image map viz-a-viz the geographical reading taken on the quarry sites, the ground leveling of the lots by reason of the complained illegal quarrying could contribute to flooding ones the Agno River overflows. This should also be considered in the processing, approval and / or denial of quarry or gratuitous permit applications in the area.

Photos of the quarried lot of Mr. Ben Caranto

Photos of the quarried lot of Mr. Patricio Mayo and Ms. Eufracia Padlan with Geographical Coordinates: Lat: 15°52’17° N; Long: 120°16’51” S

• Cases/Complaints Acted Upon by PANEL or ARBITRATORS 1. Holcim Mining Development Corporation vs. Almoite et.al.

• CEASE AND DESIST ORDER ISSUED/ IMPLEMENTED

Seven (7) Cease and Desist Orders were issued during the period under review.

The summary is hereunder presented, viz:

GROUNDS FOR CDO ISSUED CDO ISSUES DATE ISSUANCE TO:NAME

1. Despite absence 07 May 2020 Section 103 of R.A. THE CHANCELLOR, of necessary 7942 (Theft of Don Mariano Marcos permits, DMMMSU Minerals) Memorial State continued in University Campus- extracting and NLUC disposing great volume of earthworks for its proposed parking area for jeepneys and tricycles including an area

for the construction of a veterinary diagnostic center for its veterinary medicine students at its Bacnotan, La Union Campus.

2. Despite absence 18 May 2020 Section 109 THE MANAGING of a Mineral (General HEAD Processing Permit, Provisions) of Golden Aggregates Golden Consolidated and Crushing Plant Aggregates and DENR Crushing Plant Administrative continued Order No. 2020-21, processing of river s. 2010. aggregates at Sison, Pangasinan.

3. Despite absence 18 May 2020 Section 109 THE MANAGING of a Mineral (General HEAD Processing Permit, Provisions) of Solid Rock Solid Rock Consolidated Aggregates Aggregates is DENR processing of river Administrative aggregates at Order No. 2020-21, Brgy. Agat, Sison, s. 2010 Pangasinan.

4. Despite absence 18 May 2020 Section 109 MR. CHRISTOPHER of a Mineral (General ORPILLA Processing Permit, Provisions) of General Manager JCC Construction Consolidated is processing river DENR JCC Construction aggregates at Administrative Sison, Pangasinan. Order No. 2020-21, s. 2010

5 and 6. 17 June 2020 Section 103 of R.A. Mr. CARLITO C. 7942 (Theft of NOGNOG (NONOG) Investigation report by Minerals) (Rep of the personnel of PENRO La Union revealed that R.T.F. quarry operator Mr. CONSTRUCTION) Carlito C. Nognog and (Nonog) using the Mr. JULIUS equipment of R.T.F. OJASCASTRO Construction and supervised by Mr. Julius

Ojascastro is quarrying sand and gravel without permit in the Naguilian River at Mamat-ing, Naguilian, La Union.

7.Despite absence of a 19 November Section 109 Mr. Francis Cuyop Mineral Processing 2020 (General Owner Permit, though it has Provisions) of ECC. Consolidated 3K Construction and DENR Crushing Plant Administrative Order No. 2020-21, s. 2010

Strengthen Multi-partite monitoring system

• MULTIPARTITE MONITORING TEAM (MMT) AND MINE REHABILITATION FUND COMMITTEE (MRFC) OPERATIONALIZED A total of fifty four (54) MMT monitoring and regular MRFC meetings were conducted for the period. This involved the quarterly activities/operation of the following MRFCs in Region 1, to wit:

1. MMT/MRFC – Northern Cement Corporation 2. MMT/MRFC – Pangasinan Group III & V 3. MMT/MRFC – ISAG La Union 4. MMT/MRFC – Omnico Natural Resources, Inc. 5. MMT/MRFC – Holcim Mining and Development Corporation 6. MMT/MRFC – ISAG Ilocos Sur 7. MMT/MRFC – Isla Verde Mining and Development Corporation 8. MMT/MRFC – Pangasinan Group II 9. MMT/MRFC – Pangasinan Group I & VI 10. MMT/MRFC – Heirs of Elias E. Olegario 11. MMT/MRFC – Pangasinan IV 12. MMT/MRFC – Philex Mining Corporation 13. MMT/MRFC – RJ Flores Construction

MMT Pangasinan Group I & VI during the 4th Quarter 2020 meeting.

The MMT Pangasinan Group III & V inspecting the settling pond of Oniol II Dev,t. and Aggregates Corporation located at Umingan, Pangasinan.

001: NATURAL RESOURCES SUSTAINABLY MANAGED – PROGRAM 2: MINERAL RESOURCES AND GEOSCIENCES DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM

COMMUNICATION PLAN FOR MINERAL RESOURCES AND GEOSCIENCE DEVELOPMENT

Conduct of Awareness and Advocacy on Mineral Resources and Geosciences Development (MRGD)

• Dialogues with Sangguniang Panlalawigan

MGB I reported principal accomplishments for the calendar year 2020 pursuant to its mandate. As part of its Awareness and Advocacy campaign for Minerals Development, MGB I remained steadfast in building and maintaining better and productive partnerships amongst its environmental partners such as the Provincial Local Government Units particularly the Sangguniang Panlalawigan.

Further, MGB I acknowledges the importance of these partnerships as they take a strong role in the promotion of sustainable development on planning & implementing policies and mobilizing local public participation. Moreover, the office believes that good governance is the foundation of sustainable development particularly in the mineral-based plans and programs in the Ilocos Region.

For the year 2020, several awareness and advocacy on mineral resources were made with the offices of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan in the region to heighten their awareness and understanding on the minerals industry.

1. Sangguniang Panlalawigan of the Province of La Union

In view of the implementation of certain programs/activities (PPAs) in the Province of La Union primarily to promote responsible mining, environmental protection and community empowerment and resiliency, a dialogue was conducted with the members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of La Union last September 22, 2020 at the Provincial Capitol. The discussion revolved on the following: • Mineral Potential -Type of Mineral (Commodity Available) -Mineral Investment Promotion Program -Mineral Industry Development Program -Tangible Impacts -Processing and Issuance of Contracts/Permits -Review and Monitoring/Audit of Mining Contracts and Permits

• Application of Geosciences - Geohazard Mapping and Assessment Survey and IEC -Vulnerability and Risk Assessment -Hydrogeologic Map -Geologic Quadrangle Mapping -Miscellaneous Services

2. Sangguniang Panlalawigan of the Province of Ilocos Sur

In view of the implementation of certain programs/activities (PPAs) in the Province of Ilocos Sur primarily to promote responsible mining, environmental protection and community empowerment and resiliency, a dialogue was conducted with the members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Ilocos Sur last October 6, 2020 at the Provincial Capitol. The discussion revolved on the following: • Mineral Potential -Type of Mineral (Commodity Available) -Mineral Investment Promotion Program -Mineral Industry Development Program -Tangible Impacts -Processing and Issuance of Contracts/Permits -Review and Monitoring/Audit of Mining Contracts and Permits

• Application of Geosciences - Geohazard Mapping and Assessment Survey and IEC -Vulnerability and Risk Assessment -Hydrogeologic Map -Geologic Quadrangle Mapping -Miscellaneous Services

3. Sangguniang Panlalawigan of the Province of Ilocos Norte

In view of the implementation of certain programs/activities (PPAs) in the Province of Ilocos Norte primarily to promote responsible mining, environmental protection and community empowerment and resiliency, a dialogue was conducted with the members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Ilocos Norte last October 8, 2020 at the Provincial Capitol. The discussion revolved on the following: • Mineral Potential -Type of Mineral (Commodity Available) -Mineral Investment Promotion Program -Mineral Industry Development Program -Tangible Impacts -Processing and Issuance of Contracts/Permits -Review and Monitoring/Audit of Mining Contracts and Permits

• Application of Geosciences - Geohazard Mapping and Assessment Survey and IEC -Vulnerability and Risk Assessment

Dialogues with other groups (Religious Groups, CSO, Academe, etc.)

For years, the Mines and Geosciences Bureau I have been closely working with various Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in environmental and minerals conservation and development. MGB I is cognizant of the role played by the civil society in the implementation of mineral – based programs and projects and in the enforcement of Environment and Natural Resources laws, rules and regulations. The need to continuously solicit their pro-active participation, unwavering support and cooperation is therefore imperative.

For the said year, four (4) dialogues were conducted.

(1) Dialogue with Cordillera Exploration Company, Inc. in Prince Plaza Hotel, Baguio City on February 27-28, 2020.

MGB-Regional Office No. 1 personnel attended and discussed the following topics during the said event:

• Engr. Nandry Clae B. Lagman- Presentation on the stages of mining, basic mining terms, main mining methods, mining application processes and the roles of the local government unit officials as mandated by CDAO 2010-21;

• Atty. Mario S. Timario Jr.- Presentation on the “Salient Features of the Philippine Mining Act of 1995”;

• Engr. Amalia G. Menzi- Presentation on the Social Development and Management Program”; and

• Engr. Ian Melgar G. Daquipil- Presentation on the Environmental Aspects and Programs under the Philippine Mining Act of 1995

Considering that the Mines and Geosciences Bureau have existed more than centennial years in the Philippines, it is troublesome to note that most are still unaware of what mining really is. In this case, it is highly recommended that this Office shall actively and continuously participate in events such as the conducted two-day convergence, which will serve as platform for the proper dissemination of correct and factual information about mining.

(2) Dialogue and presentation of the Proposed Dredging and Quarry Channel at the upstream of Bued River

Atty. Mario S. Timario Jr. discussing the ““Salient

Features of the Philippine Mining Act of 1995”.

A consultation dialogue and presentation of the proposed dredging and quarry channel was conducted last June 15, 2020 with permit holders situated along the Bued River. The Quarry Lane project was presented to DENR Regional Executive Director and permit holders and discussed further actions on it.

A collaboration project with the Local Government of Sison, Pangasinan established to address the perennial flooding experienced by local communities along the bed of the Bued River. The “Quarry Lane” acts a dredging mechanism or tool to deepen the river bed; increasing the efficiency of the river flow while re-directing the same to the pre-determined path. A Memorandum of Agreement was inked with the agencies involved to lay out their roles and obligations for the said project.

The Quarry Lane is sub-divided into 5-hectare quarry lots which shall be the subject of applications for Industrial/Commercial Sand and Gravel Permits to be issued by the Office of the Provincial . Existing Sand and Gravel Permits duly issued by proper authorities shall be respected, provided that it falls within the “Quarry Lane”. This initiative is an epitome of an undertaking; its implementation is backed up by science. But the core of its success is the willingness of the community as well as the agencies involved to pursue and continue the project for the sake of ensuring the safety and welfare of the local communities.

(3) Dialogue with Quarry Operators in Bauang, La Union Meeting highlights include: -Environmental Compliance Certificate (for the Municipality to know the annual volume to be extracted) -Quarry Survey Plan (to know the exact area of the quarry. In case of private owned land, submit MOA with the land owner attaching the latest Tax Declaration or any proof of ownership). -Tax Clearance for CY 2019 * CAPITOL Clearance on sand and gravel Tax payment; * BIR TAX Clearance on Monthly Production Report; and * MUNICIPAL TAX Clearance -Information Education Campaign (IEC) compliances for respective community host barangay.

4) Dialogue with Association of Senior Citizens of Barangay Garcia, Tubao, La Union

MGB Region 1 discussed its programs, plans and activities to a group of Senior Citizens in Tubao, La Union last December 11, 2020 as part of its PWD/Senior Citizens program and in support to RA 9257 (The Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2003) which aims to motivate and encourage senior citizens to contribute to nation building and reaffirm the valued Filipino tradition of caring for the elderly.

Radio and TV Guestings

A total of twelve (12) Radio/TV Broadcast/ Guesting were completed for the year. This includes media interviews, radio and TV press releases and press conferences conducted by local media outfits in the Ilocos Region. TV and radio stations which aired MGB-1 press releases include DWIN Radyo Agila, K17 The Kabaleyan Channel, DZRD Sonshine Radio, Aksyon Radyo, Bombo Radyo and Radyo Pilipinas.

A Media Forum was conducted to discuss issues and concerns in the minerals industry in the Ilocos Region. The said forum is one of MGB-1’s strategy to communicate the government’s plans, programs, projects and activities through the media (print and broadcast). Last year, the MGB central office formally launched its #MineResponsibility campaign to lobby its efforts of the mining industry to inform, educate and communicate the benefits that it gives to the overall economy of the country, and to call for action towards responsible mining.

Generation/Publication/Dissemination of Information and IEC Materials:

MGB-1 Website www.region1.mgb.gov.ph is being maintained by the Office for better and easier access of clients to the services being offered by the Office;

Twenty-four (24) articles were posted on the Website; Forty-eight (48) press/photo release were forwarded to various print media outlets and newletters.

One thousand (1000) pieces of IEC materials were produced, reproduced and distributed during fora, conferences, dialogues and meetings. These also includes the #MineResponsibility launch campaign forwarded by the Mineral Economics, Information and Publications Division of the MGB Central Office. Some were given to walk-in clients and PENROs and CENROs in the Region;

Thirty-three (33) Statistical Reports were prepared and submitted to MGB-Central Office;

Twenty-four (24) updating of tenement maps were done on a bi- monthly basis; and

Thirty-five (35) MRGS reports were prepared. These are the databases of the Mining Tenement Statistics Report, SHES Database Management, Mining Tenement Database, Mine Rehabilitation Fund Report.

National Linkages

The office managed to link with National Government Agencies (DTI, NEDA, DOLE, etc.), Civil Society Organizations (NGOs, academe, religious groups, etc.), Local Government Units (Province, Municipality, Barangay)

1. Linkages with NEDA

2. Linkages coordinated with DepEd

Through the Gender and Development Focal Point System and Persons with Disabilities and Senior Citizens Committee conducted a stone- painting workshop for the students of SPED San Fernando City La Union in coordination with the Department of Education San Fernando City La Union. The said activity aimed to develop new ways of thinking, seeing and creating through the arts. Furthermore, it gave the children especially those with special needs an opportunity to build their confidence through exercises that explore their creativity. MGB-1 provided and turned over art materials to the children and their teachers.

3. Linkages coordinated with LGUs A team from the Mine Management Division discussed the salient features of the Philippine Mining Act of 1995 and to assist the said LGU in crafting on the necessary protocols to promote sand and gravel quarrying in the locale.

Honorable Menchie de Guzman of the Municipality of Bauang, La Union (standing) espousing to the participants who are holders of various sand and gravel permits the stand of the LGU on mineral resource extraction. She said “the LGU supports quarrying so long as it is done the responsibly”.

Honorable Henry Bacurnay, Vice Mayor and Presiding Officer, Bauang, La Union listening intently to the issues and concerns raised by one of the sand and Gravel Permit Holders during the crafting of the protocols to promote sand and gravel quarrying in the area.

4. Linkages coordinated with I-MINE 5. Linkages coordinated with OCD

6. Linkages coordinated with Regional Development Council

Mines and Geosciences Bureau 1 Regional Director Carlos A. Tayag presented the FY 2021 Proposed Budget for Priority Programs and Projects at the First Regular Meeting of the Environment and Natural Resources Sectoral Committee last February 10. Members of the ENR-Secom commented and discussed on the budget of DENR-1 and EMB-1 as well. The said presentations follow the reforms for greater budget transparency and reliability.

7. Linkages with DPWH, DOT, NEDA

During the Stakeholders Consultative Meeting held last September 18, 2020 at the Manleluag Spring Protected Landscape, the Mines and Geosciences Bureau Regional Office No. 1 presented the results of the conducted Geohazard Mapping and Hydrological Survey along Daang Kalikasan on June 15-24, 2020. The said meeting was attended by various stakeholders and partner agencies including DENR key officials, EMB, MGB, DPWH, DOT, NEDA, officials from Mangaterem LGU and Province of Pangasinan.

This is in connection with the request of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to conduct the said survey within the vicinities of Daang Katutubo and Daang Kalikasan in Aguilar and Mangatarem, Pangasinan.

MINERAL RESERVATION PROGRAM Monitoring of existing mining claim/s within the Ilocos Norte Feldspar Mineral Reservation

Ilocos Norte Feldspar Mineral Reservation is located in Barangay Sulongan, Pasuquin, Ilocos Norte. It has an area of approximately 275.216 hectares and situated within the geographical coordinates 1823”08’N to 1824”12’N latitude and 12036”30’E to 12037”31’E longitude.

Recent records and maps from MGB RO1 show no active existing mining claims operating within the mineral reservation. Existing mining claims on the immediate vicinities of the mineral reservation namely Namalitocan, Alice, and Pabling mining claims has expired last June 4, 2014, May 6, 2012, and March 25, 2010 respectively. Recent records also show existing Mineral Production Sharing Agreement (MPSA) application of Ms. Alice Raval Ventura with Tenement ID NO. APSA-SF-245. Existing MPSA application is composed of three (3) lots with a total area of approximately 24.0 hectares and is identical to the said three (3) expired mining claims of Pablo and Lolita Raval (see table 1 and figure 1).

However, based on the recent and last year assessment of MGB RO1 and MGB CO on the Ilocos Norte Feldspar Mineral Reservation, most of the feldspar deposits in the area are outside the mineral reservation. In this case, the office will be proposing as part of the 2020 target the extension of the mineral reservation from 275.216 hectares to 352.284 hectares. The extension will include the three (3) lots of the existing MPSA application of Ms. Alice Raval Ventura (see figure 2).

Lot No. Corner No. Latitude Longitude 1 18-23-28.64 120-36-59.98 2 18-23-28.66 120-37-10.20 1 3 18-23-22.15 120-37-10.22 4 18-23-22.13 120-37-00.00 1 18-23-43.08 120-36-54.12 2 18-23-43.10 120-37-04.34 2 3 18-23-33.35 120-37-04.35 4 18-23-33.33 120-36-54.14 1 18-23-48.19 120-37-14.55 2 18-23-48.21 120-37-24.77 3 3 18-23-38.45 120-37-24.79 4 18-23-38.43 120-37-14.57

Table 1 Technical description of the three (3) lots of the MPSA application of Ms. Alice Raval Ventura with Tenement ID No. APSA-SF-245.

Figure 1 Map of the original parcel of the Ilocos Norte Feldspar Mineral Reservation (red) and lots of the existing MPSA application (yellow).

The 2020 target of MGB RO1 for the National Mineral Reservation Program is the Mineral Assessment along Cura River and portion of Labugaon River in Solsona, Ilocos Norte. The original 2020 target has been changed from Promotion and Documentation of Ilocos Norte Feldspar Mineral Reservation to Mineral Assessment along major Rivers based on the Memo of MGB Director dated June 3, 2020.

The target stretch of Cura River and portion of Labugaon River with an approximate total length of 12.5 kilometers is situated in the Barangays of San Juan, Barcelona, Bagbag, Bubuos, Aguitap, Darasdas, Nalasin, Talugtog, and Manalpac, in Solsona, Ilocos Norte. The endpoints of the total stretch of the river assessed are within the intersection of geographic coordinates 18°06’47.6” N and 120°49’44.8” E, and 18°06’47.2” N and 120°43’49.5” E.

During the period, November 11 - 21, 2020 and November 27 to December 14, 2020, a team composed of Geologists conducted the survey. It includes semi- detailed geologic mapping, water quality testing, sediment sampling, sample preparation and volume reduction, and laboratory analysis.

Semi-detailed geologic mapping was conducted over the segment of the target river and areas upstream of the main channel. It includes river traverse where outcrop or exposures of fresh rocks were likely to be found. Outcrops were assessed geologically and each outcrop and sample stations were plotted in a base map for the purpose of delineating and locating those rock formations and their lithological boundaries. Lithologic and mineral deposit identification were performed to gather data that will serve as valuable information on the sediments and minerals that would be found on the sand and gravel deposits within the river.

Water quality testing was also performed within the target river. It aims to determine changes that may negatively affect the quality of the water. Measurements were done on water samples collected using the Hanna water quality equipment and Hach meter at 500-600 meters sampling interval upstream. A total of 18 water testing stations were plotted on the base map and water quality measurements were documented in the water sampling field data sheet.

Sediment sampling includes two sampling procedures; Grab (Surface) Sampling and Stockpile Sampling. The objective of this procedures is to collect panned heavy mineral concentrates and residual samples that will be subjected to sample preparations and volume reduction to obtain desired amount of final sample of regular, replicate, field duplicate, and blank samples for laboratory analysis. Sample collections were made at 300 meters sampling interval. In areas with existing SAG/SSM operations (Single SAG/SSM operations), sample collections were made at the site of the SAG/SSM operations, 300 meters upstream, and 300 meters downstream from the SAG/SSM site. In multiple SAG/SSM operations, consecutive operations were considered as one (1) sampling location/site, and same as on single SAG/SSM site, sample collections were also made 300 meters upstream and 300 meters downstream from the SAG/SSM area. SEE FIGURE 1 and 2 for the sediment sampling locations map. In SAG/SSM site with available stockpiles, stockpile sampling collections were taken from the silty-sandy portion of the stockpile using the cross-channel method. Cross-channel stockpile sampling was done by a making a cross channel from the stockpile and collecting equal amounts of sediment taken from each channel to represent the whole stockpile. A total of twenty-one (21) grab (surface) bulk samples and one (1) stockpile sample were collected and subjected to sample preparations and volume reduction for laboratory analysis.

Collected samples were subjected to sample preparation; drying, weighing, sieving, panning, and drying again before performing the sample reduction to acquire the desired amount to produce regular, replicate, control (field duplicate), and blank samples, each weighing 150 to 300 grams.

However, preparations and volume reduction of some collected samples were not yet fully accomplished due to the delay in the conduct of the field assessment brought by COVID-19 pandemic. Projected date of submission of final samples for laboratory analysis will be on the first or second week of January 2021.

The 2020 Mineral Reservation Program budget downloaded was Nine Hundred Seventy-Four Thousand Eight Hundred Fourteen Pesos (P 974, 814.00). Financial performance shows 99% utilization as of end of December 2020. The amount obligated/spent was Nine Hundred Sixty-Eight Thousand Fifty-Three Pesos and Ninety-Six Centavos (P 968, 053.96) with a downloaded balance remaining of Six Thousand Seven Hundred Sixty Pesos and Four Centavos

a. Geological Assessment

003: ADAPTIVE CAPACITIES OF HUMAN COMMUNITIES AND NATURAL SYSTEMS IMPROVED – PROGRAM 1: GEOLOGICAL RISK REDUCTION AND RESILIENCY PROGRAM

Geohazard Assessment - Identification and Mapping of Geohazards for Critical Land Areas

Vulnerability and Risk Assessment (VRA) and Updating of 1:10,000 Geohazard Maps

UPDATING OF 1:10,000-SCALE DETAILED LANDSLIDE AND FLOOD SUSCEPTIBILITY MAP AND VULNERABILITY AND RISK ASSESSMENT (VRA) PROJECT

The Mines and Geosciences Bureau - Regional Office No. I (MGB-ROI) conducted Updating of 1:10,000-Scale Detailed Landslide and Flood Susceptibility Map and Vulnerability and Risk Assessment (VRA) in six (6) municipalities within the region (Table 1). There are ten (10) target municipalities for CY 2020. However, targets were narrowed down to ensure the safety of field men and to comply with the national health safety protocols implemented during the Luzon lockdown.

The Geohazard Map Updating and VRA projects aim (1) to further identify the hazards present within an area and produce more detailed and efficient maps, and (2) to assess the exposure of the elements at risk in a certain community, respectively. The projects’ scope covers mapping of areas which are susceptible and/or affected by rain-induced landslide and flooding. Outputs include updated geohazard maps and risk exposure maps which focus mainly on elements at risk such as road, population and built-up areas.

Table 1. CY 2020 Revised Targets for the Geohazard Map Updating and VRA project.

MUNICIPALITY PROVINCE DATE OF FIELDWORK

July 6-31, 2020 Lidlidda Ilocos Sur (ECQ* implemented on July 21, 2020) Galimuyod Ilocos Sur August 17-22, 2020 March 9-31, 2020 (ECQ* implemented on San Jacinto Pangasinan March 17, 2020) September 14-25, 2020 Salcedo Ilocos Sur September 14-25,2020 October 12-18 to 26-31, Manaoag Pangasinan 2020 October 12-18 to 26-31, Santo Tomas La Union 2020

*ECQ - Enhanced Community Quarantine

Spatial and non-spatial data were collected from the Municipal Planning and Development Office and Barangay Government Units. Updating of Geohazard Maps were done by obtaining the geographic coordinates of barangay infrastructures, schools, churches, hospitals or health clinics, evacuation centers and other critical infrastructures. Historical data through interviews with barangay councils and residents were also done during data gathering.

In rating the hazard susceptibility of an area, site inspection and field validation of previous works are conducted by the team. The parameters used for susceptibility rating include slope gradient, weathering and soil characteristics, rock mass strength, stability, and human initiated effects for landslide susceptibility while flood depth, flood duration and topography are the basis for flood susceptibility. Changes in conditions and physical characteristics of the area and construction of engineering measures and establishments were also noted in rating as it might aggravate or improve the situation.

The updated geohazard maps, spatial and non-spatial data gathered during the fieldwork were used as thematic layers and are interpreted using ArcGIS 10.3 software to generate the risk exposure maps. The output maps produced provide information regarding the exposure of the three elements at risk:

Population Exposure Map

- Preparation of nearby evacuation sites in case of preemptive evacuation needs.

- Listing of specific number of needed relief packs per barangay after a hazard or disaster event.

Road Network Exposure Map

- Identification of most suitable alternate routes in case of post-disaster damages to main roads particularly for the transport of relief goods.

- Identification of areas most suitable for pre-positioning of equipment for clearing operations.

Built-Up Areas Exposure Map

- Identification of areas most suitable as evacuation or resettlement sites and warehouses for relief goods stocks.

- Identification of areas with most infrastructures at risk for calamity fund allocation.

MGB Geohazards Assessment Team with Mayor Jessie B. Balingsat of Galimuyod, Ilocos Sur

Rock slide along the access Three (3) meter-high steep outcrop located road of Balidbid to Bulala in Madarang, Salcedo Leguey, Salcedo

Presence of minor terracettes in Barangay Flood affected area in Barangay Sta. Cruz, San Jacinto Poblacion, Galimuyod

Mitigating measure (coconet) installed at Barangay Buquig, Lidlidda

Roadcut affected by mass wasting MGB Geohazards Assessment Team in the located at Barangay Poblacion Sur, Municipality of Lidlidda, Ilocos Sur Lidlidda

Landslide affected areas were mapped along steep to very steep roadcuts of mountainous barangays in the Municiaplities of Salcedo, Lidlidda and Galimuyod, Ilocos Sur. The eastern part of Santo Tomas, La Union is also susceptible to mass wasting particularly Barangays Pongpong, Bail, Fernando, and Ambitacay. The Municipalities of San Jacinto and Manaoag, Pangasinan, on the other hand, are susceptible to flooding because of their generally low- an flat-lying topography. Numerous fluvial channels also traverse these towns which occasionally cause overflow to nearby settlement sites.

Updating of 1:10,000 scale geohazard and VRA maps in disaster- affected areas

Geohazard Assessment of environmentally critical and tourism-oriented areas

The Geohazard Assessment Team also conducted fieldwork in Daang Kalikasan, Muelang, Mangatarem, Pangasinan and Amguid, Candon City, Ilocos Sur as targets for the Geohazard Assessment in Environmentally Critical and Tourism-Oiented areas and Geohazard Mapping and VRA in Disaster-Affected areas, respectively.

For the Daang Kalikasan, approximately 10 kilometers of road was surveyed last June 2020 by the MGB Geohazards Assessment Team. Daang Kalikasan has Moderate to Very High Susceptibility to Landslide and has five (5) delineated Debris Flow Accumulation Zones. Barangay Amguid in Candon City was also visited/monitored last November 26-27 with regards to the landslide incident that happened in 2018 during ‘Habagat’ season. Updated Geohazard Maps were prepared for both study areas.

Ground Subsidence Assessment

Landslide affected areas in Daang Kalikasan, Barangay Muelang, Mangatarem, Pangasinan

GROUND SUBSIDENCE ASSESSMENT

Subsidence related to the development of sinkholes may damage human- built structures, potentially resulting in severe economic and societal consequences (Gutierrez, Parise, Waele, & Jourde, 2014), like what happened in Province on October 15, 2013 when the North Bohol Fault

(NBF) movement generated a 7.2 Mw earthquake, causing numerous sinkholes to be uncovered in the southwestern part of the island. A news article by the Inquirer dated March 12, 2014 states that experts have found 1,333 sinkholes in the province.

Collapse incidence can happen abruptly or in a very slow rate as in ground subsidence, however, both could have adverse impacts to built-up areas as well as on the infrastructures built within the vicinity. For these reasons, the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has expanded its National Geohazard Mapping Assessment in areas of the country that are characterized by karst topography. Thus, during the periods March 3-17 and September 7 – October 5, 2020, Karst Subsidence Hazard Susceptibility Assessment was conducted by the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) - RO1 in the Municipality of Agno, Province of Pangasinan.

Remote Sensing Data Interpretation was done prior to mapping. IfSAR-DEM, Topographic, and Geologic Maps were used in delineating areas underlain or possible underlain by limestone or other soluble rocks, as well as in identifying and locating existing and possible sinkhole.

IfSAR-DEM Maps show sink-depths of possible sinkholes that need to be ground- validated. Geologic maps give information regarding the rocks present in the area. The presence of soluble rocks is one of the criteria for the successful development of karst landscapes. For example, it is more likely to have sinkholes and cave systems in an area underlain by limestone. Topographic maps were utilized in evaluating the drainage systems and possible disappearing streams and emergent springs present in the area. Cross-checking information provided in these maps and subsequent interpretation were executed.

1.1 Gathering Anecdotal Accounts (Interview with the locals)

Anec dotal accounts were considered. The team discussed the maps and the “Subsidence Hazard Due to Sinkhole” chart to the officials of each barangay prior to proceeding in the field for the assessment proper. The discussion aims to disseminate information about the potential geohazard within the municipality. Additionally, it also intends to solicit relevant observation/information from the locals on the reported sinkholes or possible indications of sinkholes within the area.

Indications of possible sinkholes include, but not limited to, presence of tension cracks, circular holes or subsidence, springs, terracettes, disappearing streams, subterranean creeks, swallow holes, and caves.

The team also introduced the Karst Subsidence Hazard Susceptibility Assessment Project to the barangay officials as well as to some locals. The discussions were followed by the distribution of charts.

1.2

Geological and Geomorphological Assessment

The geological assessment includes the study of lithological characteristics of the area and delineation of various karst features such as caverns, springs, underground rivers, disappearing streams, and swallow holes.

Areas underlain by soluble rocks such as limestone and other carbonate rocks are more likely to develop karst features, thus, the team focused more on identifying sinkholes within such area. The assessment produced an inventory of existing sinkholes as well as various karst features such as emergent springs, solution notches, and erosion remnants.

Areas of subsidence due to possible sinkhole shown in the generated IfSAR maps and topographic and geologic maps were subjected to ground thruting/validation, and together with the anecdotal accounts (interview) from the locals, those areas were inventoried and assessed.

This outcrop is located in Barangay Macaboboni (N 16°11ʹ48.2ʺ, E 119°45ʹ54.4ʺ). It is composed of interbedded calcareous sandstone- mudstone-limestone, located along the road. Limestone and sandstone beds are approximately 1-meter thick, while mudstone interbeds are approximately 2-cm thick. The sequence from bottom to top is limestone-sandstone-siltstone-ss-slts- ss-slts-ss-limestone-slts-ss…

2.0 OUTPUT

To generate the Karst Subsidence Hazard Susceptibility Map, data from the sinkhole inventory, that is, the number of sinkholes based on IFSAR-DEM and sink-depth data, geological assessment or field validation, and several satellite imageries analyses.

The following are the results of this assessment: Name of Barangay Number of Sinkhole

Geological IFSAR IFSAR Total Assessment (DEM) (Topo) Allabon 33 55 6 94 Aloleng 11 25 0 36 Bangan-Oda 19 28 0 47 Baruan 36 46 3 85 Boboy 26 29 0 55 Cayungnan 13 13 0 26 Dangley 2 3 0 5 Gayusan 19 56 5 80 Macaboboni 37 42 0 79 Magsaysay 24 30 0 54 Namatucan 6 18 1 25 Patar 24 16 0 40 Poblacion East 0 4 0 4 Poblacion West 1 4 0 5 San Juan 4 11 0 15 Tupa 24 34 0 58 Viga 24 21 2 47

TOTAL 303 435 17 755

The distribution of the inventoried possible and ground-validated sinkholes, geology of the area, and presence of different karst features (such as springs, caves, and disappearing streams) determine the hazard susceptibility of the area. The output map will display highly susceptible areas as red zones, the boundaries of which are delineated using parameters such as the presence of caves, sinkholes, and significant evidences of potential sinkholes such as, but not limited to tension cracks, terracettes, creep toward depressions, subsiding land surfaces, and spalling caves.

Participation of LGU-Agno, especially MDRRMO staffs, was significant in the completion of the assessment for they provided available data and workforce, as well as the warm welcome from the locals. The output maps can be used by the LGU in developing contingency plans and as a basis for future developments in the Municipality of Agno, Pangasinan.

Geohazard IEC Materials Dissemination

IEC materials consisting of maps (334), posters (690), VCD (60), pamphlets and/or flyers (500) on “BAHA” and “GUHO” were distributed to LGUs, students and clienteles. Two (2) Signages were also installed. Geohazard maps with a scale of 1:10,000 scale were uploaded in the website. Advisories were likewise issued to all cities and municipalities in the region.

Conduct of IEC to LGUs

CONDUCT OF SEMINAR/ WORKSHOP ON THE RESULTS OF VULNERABILITY AND RISK ASSESSMENT FOR LGUs

The Mines and Geosciences Bureau - Regional Office No. I (MGB-ROI) conducted Training-Workshops on Understanding Risk Exposure Maps (REMs). A total of eight (8) target municipalities were presented with REMs generated by this Office, five (5) of which were through virtual conference meetings (Table 1). The COViD-19 pandemic hindered the VRA-IEC Team to conduct a face-to- face (traditional) training-workshop to some municipalities.

Risk Exposure Assessment (REA) is a method used to quantify elements at risk, such as roads, built-up areas, and population, within a particular area exposed to one or several hazards and thereby subject to potential losses (UNISDR, 2010). This activity aims to (1) increase awareness and provide technical input to Local Government Units (LGUs) regarding Risk Exposure Analysis and its importance to attain sustainable development through comprehensive land-use, development and disaster risk management planning, and to (2) seek for the optimized use of the previously produced 1:10,000 Scale Detailed Landslide and

Flood Susceptibility Maps for LGUs in their respective land-use and contingency planning.

DATE OF TRAINING- MUNICIPALITY PROVINCE WORKSHOP San Juan La Union March 05, 2020 Caba La Union March 06, 2020 Naguilian* La Union August 25, 2020 Bacnotan La Union August 27, 2020 San Emilio* Ilocos Sur September 30, 2020 Batac City* Ilocos Norte October 20, 2020 San Nicolas* Ilocos Norte October 21, 2020 Vintar* Ilocos Norte October 22, 2020

Table 1. CY 2020 Revised Targets for the VRA-IEC Campaign of the MGB.

*Virtual training-workshop

Target participants include representatives from the following sectors/offices:

- Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction And Management Office (MDRRMO)

- Municipal Planning And Development Office (MPDO)

- Municipal Engineering Office (MEO)

- Department Of Education (DepEd) – Municipal Division

- Philippine National Police (PNP)

- Municipal Local Government Operations Office (MLGOO)

- Association Of Barangay Captains (ABC)

- Municipal Gender And Development Office

Activities on the training-workshop include presentations on Understanding Geologic Hazards, National Geohazard Assessment Program, Introduction to Vulnerability and Risk Assessment (VRA), VRA Methodology, Presentation of Risk Exposure Maps, Gender an Development Lecture, and the Hands-On Exercise.

The second part of the VRA-IEC was the round table discussion or the workshop proper wherein participants were asked to answer several guide questions.

Maps, reports, and posters were then turned-over to LGUs. However, training- workshops conducted on a virtual conference meeting received the maps, reports, posters, IEC training kits, and certificates at a later date.

Presentation of risk exposure maps Turn-over of maps and reports to LGU to participants from San Juan, La Union Caba, La Union

MGB Geologists deliver Participants of the training-workshop presentations to participants during from the Municipality of Naguilian, La Union the virtual training-workshop

Bacnotan, La Union Mayor Francisco Angelito Fontanilla and RD Carlos Tayag deliver their speeches during the training-workshop

Awarding of certificates and tokens to Turn-over of maps to LGU San Emilio, Ilocos Sur participants from MGB IEC Team

Participants of the virtual training- Participants of the virtual training- workshop in San Nicolas, Ilocos Norte workshop in Batac City, Ilocos Norte

Turn-over of maps to LGU Vintar, Ilocos Norte

LECTURES PRESENTED

1. January 29, 2020-acted as a Resource Speaker in the DRRM for Frontline Services (VAVECINO)

2. February 20, 2020-acted as a Resource Speaker for Disaster Risk Preparedness and Awareness on the ENR Basic Course. (MRBAGUDA)

3. March 03-04, 2020-acted as a Resource Speaker on the One-Day Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Course within Ilocos Norte (VAVECINO)

4. March 05-06,2020-acted as a Resource Speaker in Rivermount Hotel in Sarrat, Ilocos Norte for One-Day Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Course for Basic Society Sector (i.e. Service Providers, Children and Youth Sector in the Province of IN. (YSPGUINTO, MJCNOVERO)

5. Sept. 16, 2020- Attended the joint Committee hearing (Via E-Governance Set Up) presented how to use Geohazard Map.(Vilma A. Vecino)

6. Sept. 22, 2020- Presented the programs and projects of the Geosciences Division to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of La Union Province last September 22, 2020 (Vilma A. Vecino)

7. October 06, 2020-Presentation/lecture on the programs and projects of the Geosciences Division for CY 2020-2021 to the Hon. Governor and Sangguniang Panlalawigan Members for the Province of Ilocos Sur (Vilma A. Vecino)

8. Oc tober 08, 2020-Presentation/lecture on the programs and projects of the Geosciences Division for CY 2020-2021 to the Hon. Governor and Sangguniang Panlalawigan Members for the Province of Ilocos Sur (Vilma A. Vecino) 9. October 14, 2020- acted as resource speaker of Learning Event on Environment and Natural Resources (ENR) Frontline Course-Batch 3 in Puerto de San Juan. (Vilma A. Vecino)

10. November 26, 2020-Acted as Resource Speaker on the conduct of Environment and Natural Resources(ENR Basic Course Batch 3)

GEOLOGIC QUADRANGLE MAPPING

Miss Vilma A. Vecino, IEC Materials on geohazards such as Supervising Geologist delivering her flyers on “LANDSLIDE” as well as GAD IEC lecture on “Understanding materials such as Magna Carta of Women, Geologic Hazards and the Role of Anti-Rape Law, Sexual Harassment, Anti- Women During Disasters” Child Trafficking Law and Violence against Women Republic Act (VAWC) in connection with the Women’s Month Celebration were distributed to all participants.

MGB Geologists acted as Resource Speakers in Rivermount Hotel in Sarrat, Ilocos Norte during the One-Day Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Course for Basic Society Sector (i.e. Service Providers, Children and Youth Sector in the Province of IN. (YSPGUINTO, MJCNOVERO)

Mineral Resource Inventory

Mineral Resource Inventory Map of Region

I

Coastal geohazard Assessment Monitoring of Coastal Communities/Cities on accretion and erosion

The Mines and Geosciences Regional Office No. 1 conducted Coastal geohazards mapping and vulnerability assessment for the highly susceptible Municipalities of Bauang and Caba, La Union from August 17-26,2020 and October 12-20, 2020 for the Habagat and Post Habagat Phases. In total, 14 coastal barangays were surveyed by the office.

The geohazard assessment aims to re-construct the erosion and accretion history of the coastline by mapping the extent of shoreline changes from 1944 up to the present. Shoreline trend analysis shall be completed using available historical maps, berm tracking and drone survey and will be complemented with anecdotal accounts, researches and public documents on disasters.

Slope and size of the beach is also determined by beach profiling to be able to predict the landward shoreline migration for a one (1) meter sea level rise.

Sediment sampling on beach profiles aims to examine the origin and sorting of beach material and associate the results to the effect of existing management structures.

Coastal Vulnerability Assessment utilized the Coastal Integrity Vulnerability Assessment Tool which has been designed to promote ecosystems-based management of the coast. Criteria for assessment shall include wave and sea level changes, intrinsic (slope, geomorphology, shoreline trends, coastal habitats) and extrinsic (beach mining, coastal management structures) characteristics to define the over-all state of the coast.

C oastal communities have continued to expand for centuries as human population increased. The coast has been a very important gateway for civilization to advance. It has provided access to resources, base for trading and industry, access to sea navigation,exploration and defense, tourism and recreation.

Erosion and accretion are natural beach processes that are generally affected by tidal range variation, sea level changes, prevailing wind conditions, coastal geomorphology, coastal resources and coastal structures.

Based on the 20yr trend of the tide level from the Poro Point, San Fernando, La Union Tidal Station, average tidal levels affecting the study area is decreasing. Highest high tide levels range from 36 cm to 129 cm. An exceptionally extreme high tidal reading occurred in May 2003 which recorded 706 cm - coinciding with the onslaught of “Typhoon Chedeng”. Lowest low tide levels range from -56 cm to 16 cm.

Interestingly, there is a trend of highest high tide levels slightly exceeding 100cm every five (5) years with three (3) to five (5) years duration since 1988. However, it should be noted that tidal data alone cannot dictate the changes in sea level. Numerous factors such as land subsidence, variations in land heights, uplift rate, ocean currents and global temperature changes, etc., should be considered.

The coastline of Bauang and Caba is generally a combination of sandy beaches, tidal flats and old fish pond areas. Coastal bluffs approximately 1.8km in length are also noted in Barangays Santiago , Bagbag and Urayong, Bauang and Barangay Santiago Sur, Caba.

Based on the shoreline analysis, the northernmost coastal barangays of Bauang are relatively stable in the past 70 years. Natural barriers such as coral reefs have protected the shores by reducing wave heights by reflection and reduction of longshore transport of sediment. Accretion at Barangays Taberna, Pugo, and Pudoc may be attributed to the uninterrupted sediment supply from the Bauang River and other tributaries. Meanwhile, coastal erosion in southern Bauang has long been recognized since the 1940s. Accretion has been observed thereafter until the 1970s and has continued to erode again. The historical 1944 map shows that in the early times, most parts of the southern highly vulnerable coastal barangays of Pilar, Santiago and Bagbag were part

of the seawaters and have only formed as a result of accretion sometime between the 1940s to 1970s. Caba is located further inland in 1944. Accretion has occurred in most parts of the coast from 1944 to 2005. Storms and monsoons have brought stronger waves, coupled with interrupted sediment supply from the north consequently caused a series of erosion and accretion from 2005 to 2017. Installation of groins in Wenceslao, San Carlos, Santiago Norte and Santiago Sur have aided in managing further erosion. From 2017 to 2019, coastal erosion averages at ~10m with southern Santiago Sur losing as much as ~25m in two (2) years and still continues up to present.

Coastal erosion in the area is attributed to oblique incident waves, storm events, extreme tides and currents coupled with the relatively steeper bathymetric profile in southern Bauang and Caba. This checks with historical

and anecdotal accounts, citing Habagat and storms and to bring the strongest waves. The strongest recent typhoon that generated the most damaging effect of storm surge is “Typhoon Pepeng” which affected the area on October 2009. “Typhoons Yolanda (2013), Cosme (2007), Lando (2015), Rosing (1995), Ompong (2018) and Feria” (1980) also made significant effect in the study area.

The steep bathymetry also contributes in allowing incoming waves from the gulf become more direct, hence, soft and unconsolidated fine grained materials to become easily eroded. Sediment transport was also noted to be locally disrupted. There is a demarcation line coincident with the 1590 pier in the accretion at Payocpoc Sur, Bauang and with the last groin in Santiago Su, Caba. The solid based 1590 Pier and the groin traps the sand movement from the north to the down-drift southern direction, consequently causing a sand deficit and increased coastal erosion in Barangays Pilar, Santiago, Bagbag and Urayong, Bauang and southern Santiago Sur, Caba.

Engineering structures such as sea groins and natural coastal resources such as coral colonies in northern Bauang and mangroves to the immediate south of the mouth of Bauang River have aided in protecting the coast against high wave exposure.

Preliminary assessment in Bauang by scoring with the use of Coastal Integrity Vulnerability Assessment Tool has classified Barangays Pilar, Santiago and Bagbag to have High Vulnerability to Coastal Erosion. Barangay Urayong has Moderate Vulnerability to Coastal Erosion while the rest have Low Vulnerability Classification. Meanwhile, in Caba, Barangays Santiago Sur has Moderate Vulnerability to Coastal Erosion while the rest have Low Vulnerability

Classi fication. The Vulnerability Assessment shall be updated in 2021 considering exposure criteria to sea level rise and Pre-Habagat survey.

Statistical analysis using Digital Shoreline Analysis System and final Coastal Erosion Vulnerability Map will be produced after completion of data gathering from the Pre-Habagat phase in 2021. Since the project is to be continued in 2021, Final Coastal Geohazard Map and Coastal Geohazards Vulnerability Map will be released after the completion of Pre-Habagat Survey.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Marine Geological Sciences Division’s schedule to synchronize this Office’s equipment of echo-sounder was not conducted. Consequently, bathymetric survey cannot be completed in the target municipalities. The bathymetric survey could have significantly improved

interpretation of data relative to beach erosion, sea level rise and wave exposure.

The Coastal Integrity Vulnerability Assessment Tool (CIVAT) employs a multi-disiplinary approach. This assessment could have been improved if botanists and marine biologists are part of the surveying team. PHOTO DOCUMENTATION

Beach Profiling

16°32'25.39"N 120°19'6.03"E

16°27'19.66"N 120°19'55.68"E

120°19'6.03"E

Beac h profiling is used to study the dynamic processes and the effects of wave, current and anthropogenic structures on a beach. By comparing the data taken over several seasons, the total picture of beach dynamics over time can be inferred.

Sediment Sampling

Sediment sampling is up to a maximum of three (3) per beach profile and are strategically selected at the mid-berm, landward and seaward transects.

Coastal Integrity Vulnerability Assessment

Criteria for assessment shall include wave and sea level changes, intrinsic and extrinsic characteristics to define the over-all state of the coast.

Berm Tracking

Berm Tracking involves real-time tracking of the highest fair-weather berm using a hand-held Global Positioning System (GPS) device where all readings are expressed in degrees, minutes, and seconds (e.g., N 14°20’28”). Data acquired are stored in a database for both shoreline mapping, and coastal erosion mapping purposes.

Dron e Survey

Drone survey involves the use of a drone to take aerial photos with the use of multi-spectral camera. This assessment utilized the DJI Phantom 4 product.

Shoreline of coastal barangays which are not restricted for drone survey are photographed several times at a downward facing angle. Each image is geotagged and is stitched using the Drone2Map application.

Groundwater Resource Assessment

The Mines and Geosciences Regional Office No. 1 conducted Groundwater Resource and Vulnerability Assessment for the highly urbanized City of Candon and Groundwater Mapping and Resource Assessments in the Municipalities of Sta. Lucia, Sta. Cruz and Tagudin, Ilocos Sur from February to March, July and September 2019. In total, 73 (Candon City), 40 (Sta. Lucia), 48 (Sta. Cruz), and 43 (Vigan City) wells were surveyed by the office.

The objective of the project is to delineate areas with groundwater resource potential in the country, and identify the availability and physical quality of groundwater in various geologic formation/rock units. Furthermore, the project also aims to determine the likelihood of contaminants to reach a groundwater system from the ground surface to the aquifer. Outputs from the assessment may be utilized in the development of groundwater resource, land use management (zoning, screening, mitigating, monitoring) and promoting awareness of the importance of groundwater resources to locals.

T he field survey in the target city/municipalities employed the use of Global Positioning System (GPS) and topographic map of the area to complete systematic survey spacing and collection of data such as well location, groundwater level and physical water quality test

Measurement of well depth and groundwater level is carried out with the use of a battery operated water level indicator that emits light and sound upon reaching the water surface. Water samples collected from pump wells and dug wells were subjected to water quality analysis using a portable Hanna Instrument meter and Hach meter. The in-situ test determines the temperature (T), pH, electric conductivity (Ec), total dissolved solids (TDS) and salinity (S) of the water sample. For all the target municipalities and city, the office conducted water level measurements and water sampling for the dry season and the wet season.

In general, measured water level on surveyed wells are near surface for those located at flat lying areas and those that are adjacent to creeks. Deeper water level measurements were recorded in sloping areas. About 40 or 20% of the well inventory have ground water levels below the mean sea level. These wells, especially those near the coastline may be potentially vulnerable to salt water intrusion especially when aquifers are over-pumped. More over, near surface unconfined aquifers may also be vulnerable to potential contamination.

Based on the groundwater resource availability survey, total groundwater resource is calculated at 46,042,195m3 or 1.22x1012 gallons at Candon City and 21,575,816.22m3 or 5.7x109 gallons at Sta. Lucia. Meanwhile calculated groundwater resource is at 43,850,164.99m3 or 1.16x1010 gallons in Sta. Cruz and 25,358,091.82m3 or 6.7x109 gallons in Tagudin. The calculated resource is taken as annual recharge coming from monsoon and shallow water table zone. The computed groundwater resource thus is available for utilization for domestic, industrial and irrigation.

Relatively elevated TDS and salinity readings in the target areas may likely be caused by local dissolution of soil, rock and organic water. Note that geologic units of Amlang and Laoag Formations were deposited in an environment hosting calcareous and siliceous sediments that carries variable

ions, thus can increase dissolved solids in groundwater. There may also be possible marine intrusions along coastal barangays if tide levels rise or if there is excessive groundwater extraction along coastal communities. Another possible cause would be anthropogenic pollution from agricultural runoff or domestic or sewage leaks.

Vulnerability assessment was completed using the modified DRASTIC System. The DRASTIC System employs the use of Geographic Information System (GIS) Overlays of the watershed into grid cells, incorporating hydrogeological parameters such as depth to water, recharge, aquifer media, soil media, topography, impact of vadose zone and conductivity of the aquifer to calculate for a categorized vulnerability index value. There were additional modifications and adjustments introduced in the generation of the various layers given the limitations encountered in the conduct of discharge measurements at the field. Instead of employing the water balance equation method, the net 1recharge was calculated using the Water Table Fluctuation technique, which is found to be practical for the study area. Results show that Candon City has relatively moderate to high vulnerability to contamination. Headwaters at Salcedo and Galimuyod area are categorized to have moderate vulnerability to contamination.

The 2020 global COVID-19 pandemic threat has indeed affected the implementation of the agency projects. Community quarantine imposed by the government in Luzon Island resulted to travel restrictions thereby causing postponement and delays in various program execution. Dry season readings for Candon City and Sta. Lucia were conducted in the month of July, when wet season has already commenced.

The groundwater resource calculation may further be improved considering other recharge sources such as non-monsoon rainfall recharge, seepages from canals, return flow from irrigation, inflow from rivers/creeks and other sources (e.g. seepages from tanks, ponds, lakes).

Target setting is limited on the number of target cities/municipalities as per directive of the Central Office. For the year 2020, Regional Offices were instructed to complete four (4) municipalities. In addition to this, the watershed

appr oach was applied in selection of the four (4) targets. Note that watershed boundaries knows no political boundaries, hence one watershed may have more than four (4) municipalities. With data gaps on areas not surveyed, resulting vulnerability maps have large areas extrapolated especially on the boundaries. It is therefore more ideal to considering target setting based on the watershed irregardless of the number of municipalities to gain more confidence in the output maps completed.

PHOTO DOCUMENTATION

Well Mapping

17° 9'31.4''N 120° 25'43.2'' E 17° 9'17.7'' N 120° 25’ 48.5’’ E

Geographic location of the wells were conducted with the use of a GPS. The location of the wells are plotted in the base map to ensure good sample distribution of surveyed wells within the city/municipality.

Groundwater Physical Water Quality Testing

17° 10'42.7''N 120° 28'36.1''E 17° 13'56.5'' N 120° 25'15.8'' E

16°57'10.7''N 120°27'39.6''E

Water samples taken from dug wells and pump wells were subjected to water quality audit. The physical properties of the water is tested using a portable Hanna Instrument meter and/or Hach meter. In this test, temperature, pH, electric conductivity, total dissolve solids (TDS) and salinity were determined.

Groundwater Level Measurements

A water depth meter is used to measure the depth to groundwater level from domestic pump wells and dug wells surveyed in the target city and municipalities. The data are recorded in the survey sheets for the database.

Georesistivity Surveys

Potential areas are delineated based on the generated piezometric maps. Ground mapping on these areas are conducted through a georesistivity survey during the dry season that can possibly identify sub- surface water-bearing layers.

Miscellaneous Geological Services

Forty one (41) Geohazard Investigation/inspections were conducted and a total of six hundred six (606) Geohazard Certifications were issued by the office.

1. January 09-10,2020- conducted geological assessment on the proposed sanitary landfill site in the Municipality of Tubao, La Union. (CGEBUEN/RBCORONO)

2. January 14-17,2020-conducted geological assessment on the proposed sanitary landfill site in the Municipality of Adams and Badoc, IN.(RBCORONO, CGEBUEN, LTVALDEZ)

3. January 16-18,2020-conducted geological site scoping for the proposed commercial dev't. located at Barangay San Simeon, Currimao, IN (LFUOLIVER, YSPGUINTO)

4. January 23-24,2020-conducted geological site assessment on the proposed BFP site in the Municipality of Galimuyod, IS (MRBAGUDA, YSPGUINTO,MJNOVERO)

5. January 27-28, 2020- conducted geological site assessment on the property of Roman Omo located in the Municipality of Bani, Pangasinan. (CGEBUENJr., RAFAMINIALAGAO,LTVALDEZ)

6. January 28-29, 2020- conducted geological site scoping for the property owned by Unakite Builders Corp. located at Quibaol, , Pangasinan.(KSDELOSANGELES,LFUOLIVER)

7. January 29-31, 2020-conducted reassessment on the proposed Sanitary Landfill Site in the Municipality of Adam, IN (CGEBUEN., RBCORONO, LTVALDEZ)

8. February 13-14, 2020-conducted geological assessment on the proposed Sanitary Landfill Site at the Municipality of Salcedo, IS (YSPGUINTO, LFUOLIVER, MJNOVERO)

9. February 07,2020-conducted field verification of Luna Pebble Beach at Luna La Union. (MARAOJO/RAFAMINIALAGAO)

10. February 21, 2020-conducted geological site scoping for the proposed San Manuel Solar Powerproject in San Manuel, Pangasinan and conducted geological site scoping for the proposed Laclac Solar Power Project. (MRBAGUDA/IIMGRAYCOCHEA/RAFAMINIALAGAO/MARAOJO/YSPGUI NTO/ MJNOVERO)

11. February 24-26, 2020-conducted geological assessment and sinkhole hazard assessment of the San Vicente Viga Farm to Market Road , Dasol, Pangasinan. (RBCORONO/LTVALDEZ/CGEBUEN JR.)

12. February 27-28, 2020-conducted geological site scoping on the proposed BFP site in the Municipality of Mangatarem, Pangasinan.(YSPGUINTO,MJCNOVERO)

13. March 05, 2020-conducted geological assessment on the proposed construction of series check dams located at barangays Lon- oy and Balballayang, San Gabriel, LU. (RBCORONO)

14. March 10, 2020- conducted Sanitary Landfill Site Assessment located in the City Vigan, IS (RBCORONO)

15. June 09, 2020-conducted Geological Site Scoping located in the Aboitiz Solar Power Corporation Solar Power Plant located in the Municipality of Aguilar, Pangasinan. (MRBAGUDA/RAFAMINIALAGAO)

16. June 10, 2020- conducted Ocular Geological Inspection on the Housing Projects (Casa Mira Realty and Casa Mira Naguilayan 1)

located at Barangay Naguilayan, Binmaley, Pangasinan.(RBCORONO/MARAOJO)

17. June 16, 2020-conducted geohazard assessment on the proposed construction of One (1) Storey Commercial Building located in the Municipality of Bacnotan, La Union. (RBCORONO/LMROBES)

18. June 18-20, 2020 -conducted Geohazard Investigation along portions of the major river and its tributaries encompassing seven Barangays in Calasiao, Pangasinan for the flood control program.(YSPGUINTO/LMROBES)

19. July 01-03,2020-conducted Geological Site Scoping on the proposed Phil. Economic Zone Authority Industrial Park Project located at Barangay Linmansangan, Binalonan, Pangasinan. ( Ivy May Graycochea, Michael Andre Araojo)

20. July 06-10, 2020-conduct geological assessment on the two (2) proposed sites for establishment of small water impounding structure located in Brgy. Virbira, Carasi, and Brgy. Barikir, Nueva Era, Ilocos Norte . (RBCORONO, CGEBUEN, MJNOVERO)

21. July 06-10, 2020-conducted geological site scoping located in Brgy. Pagulidan-Salindeg, Currimao, Ilocos Norte (RBCORONO,MJNOVERO)

22. July 17,2020-conducted geological site scoping on the proposed Residential and Industrial (Church) Projects in Brgy. Tuddingan, Naguilian, La Union. (RAFAMINIALAGAO, LFUOLIVER,LTVALDEZ)

23. August 05, 2020- conducted Sanitary Landfill Assessment at Brgy. Suyo, Bagulin, La Union . (KSDELOSANGELES)

24. August 07, 2020- To conduct Geological Site Scoping on the proposed construction of Pangasinan Convention and Multi-Purpose Center Phase-1 under design and build scheme located in Bugallon, Pangasinan. (YSPGUINTO,LTVALDEZ)

25. September 07-09, 2020- conducted Geological Site Scoping on the proposed Solar Wind Power Plants of Aboitiz Power Corp, Located in Bugallon, Pangasinan (Marie Rose Aguda, Mark Joshua Novero)

26. September 10-11, 2020-conducted geological site scoping on the lot donated to Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), located in Bagbag, Bauang, La Union ( Vilma A Vecino, Ivy May Graycochea)

27. September 11, 2020-conducted geological site scoping on the proposed BFP San Manuel Fire Station located in Guiset Sur, San Manuel, Pangasinan

28. October 06-07, 2020- conducted GSS in the proposed Sanitary landfill site in the Brgy. Barlo, Mabini, Pangasinan (Ricky B. Corono/Lester Valdez/Leonel Robes)

29. October 06-07, 2020-conducted GSS in the proposed Sanitary Landfill site located in the Municipality of Bacarra, Ilocos Norte. (Marie Rose Aguda)

30. October 01-02, 2020-Conducted GSS in the proposed housing subdivision locted in Brgy. Bacabac, Bugallon, Pangasinan. (Mark Joshua Novero/Yancey Seve Guinto)

31. October 01-02, 2020-conducted GSS in the proposed Condominium Vester Corp. located in Brgy. San Vicente, Urdaneta City, Pangasinan

32. October 22, 2020- conducted GSS on the proposed ST. Gregory Parkville new 60 sqm. AFP/PNP Housing Program located in Brgy. Paing, Bantay, Ilocos Sur ( Crispin G. Ebuen/Raizl Astrid Faminialagao/Leonel Robes/Lester Valdez)

33. October 22, 2020- conducted GSS on the proposed Small Water Impounding Project in Brgy. 23, Sta Cecilia (Barabar) San Nicolas, Ilocos Norte( Crispin G. Ebuen/Raizl Astrid Faminialagao/Leonel Robes/Lester Valdez

34. October 27-28, 2020- conducted geohazard assessment for the proposed San Nicolas Building of Cong. Tyrone Agabas located in Brgy. San Roque, San Nicolas, Pangasinan (Katrina Carla Delos Angeles/Louie Oliver)

35. Nov. 06, 2020- conducted GSS on the proposed Casa Mira Residences Phase 2 at Sitio San Jose, Brgy. Gayaman, Municipality of Binmaley, Pangasinan. (Ivy May Graycochea/Michael Andre Araojo)

36. Nov. 09, 2020- conducted Geological Site Scoping on the proposed Housing Project loc. in Brgy. San Vicente, City of Alaminos, Pangasinan. (Louie Francis Oliver/ Lester Valdez)

37. Nov. 19-20, 2020- conducted Geological Evaluation on the proposed SWIS at Brgy. Libbo in Bagulin, Brgy. Delles in Burgos and Brgy. Bayabas, in San Gabriel, La Union (Katrina Carla Delos Angeles/Lester Valdez)

38. Nov. 18, 2020- conducted Geological Site Scoping on the proposed housing project in the Municipality of Tagudin, Ilocos Sur. (Katrina Carla Delos Angeles, Lester Valdez)

39. Nov. 26-27, 2020-conducted geological assessment on the proposed Sanitary Landfill Site of Kenwood Haulers Corp. in the Municipality of San Jacinto, Pangasinan. (Ricky B. Corono, Louie Francis Oliver)

40. December 09-10, 2020 conducted geological site inspection regarding on the reported sinkhole in the Municipality of Dasol, Pangasinan. (Raizl Astrid Faminilagao, Ricky B. Corono,Lester Valdez)

41. December 10-11, 2020- conducted geological site scoping for the gratuitous permit for Dumuloc Small Reservoir Irrigation Project in Bugallon, Bayaoas Small Reservoir Irrigation Project and Mapita Small Irrigation Project in Aguilar, Pangasinan. (Marie Rose Aguda, Michael Andre Araojo, Ivy May Graycochea)

Assessment of Stakeholder’s responses:

LGU’s of the target cities and municipalities have actively participated, extended assistance and supported the program of the bureau. LGUs are generally proactive in providing essential data, and needed assistance during the course of the field work.

During monitoring, company representatives actively participated.

Other Significant accomplishments/milestones/innovations:

Innovation/Milestones

The Mining Tenement Evaluation Section (MTES) continue to push for the development and eventual mainstreaming of the MGB Electronic Library (E-Lib). The primordial objective is to “create a space” for documents to be handled in a way that it could be created, stored and retrieved efficiently and effectively; and for the maintenance of records including classifying, storing, securing and preservation, which protects historical archives and assures permanent records are accessible and readable at present and that can be accessed through the internet.

The Electronic Library can be accessed from any browser by searching for www.mgbr1elib.com

With a systematic document and records management, the Organization may treat every transaction with faster and more effective response. This leads to more accurate decision making for the top management.

Objectives

▪ Electronic or automated organization of existing records and documents ▪ Secure all accounts relating to mining permits/contracts and applications filed or registered in this Office ▪ Preserve vital documents and records ▪ Provide faster search and retrieval of records and documents ▪ Give instant access to records and documents ▪ Lessen lost and misfiled records and documents ▪ Reduce the amount of space used to store records and documents ▪ Simplify information and workflow

With every employee having its own account to access the E-lib, we can track the time and date of login of every user and each account will have its own restriction on who can access, edit and delete, divided into categories namely:

User Type Actions Capable Administrator Full Control of the System Author Input, Edit, Delete

Editor Input and Delete

Subscriber/Guest Viewing Only

Photo 1: Homepage of the Electronic Library

Photo 2: Notification to Login User

Shows all important information of the Applicant

Click the searched row to show additional informations and downloadable attachments

In connection with the development and upgrading of the MGB Regional Office 1 Electronic Library, fact sheets of registered and approved mining tenements particularly the Mineral Production Sharing Agreement ( MPSA ) and Financial and Technical Assistance Agreement ( FTAA ), were created which enabled users to directly extract the scanned file/ document of important events in a portable document file ( PDF ) using hyperlinks directed to the Electronic Library. With this, searching for documents has been made easier and faster because the evaluators won’t be looking into the carpeta to extract files but instead use the Fact Sheet to retrieve the said files.

Hyperlink of the document directed to the Electronic Library.

III. PROSPECTS FOR CY 2021

The Mines and Geosciences Bureau Region 1 is committed and determined to better serve the public and provide high-quality services. As such, we are conducting collaborative efforts with various environmental partners and stakeholders to ensure a more effective implementation of the bureau’s programs to keep the environment safe and healthy. We shall be continuously promoting

responsible and sustainable mining towards mineral resources development on various programs and events.

We seek to transform the Philippine mining industry to an environmentally-friendly, globally competitive, significant contributor to the national economy and improve the welfare of the people and the country especially in this global pandemic. The contributions of the mining industry have been prioritized to help in the economic recovery of the country.

We are strong-willed as we aim to ensure the delivery of these services and uphold the mandate of the MGB as keepers of public trust and bring positive changes conducive to sustainable development for everyone especially to those who are in the grassroots community. Our social responsibility entails to ensure that the future generation would continue to benefit from the environment.