LEGAZPI CITY - The Mines and Geosciences Bureau Regional Office No. V (MGB RO-V) has dismantled illegal small scale mining structures in Sitio Bulaay, Barangay Palanas in Paracale, Camarines Norte last July 29 and 30, 2016.

This appropriate action was made after verified reports reached this Office regarding the alleged on-going illegal small scale mining operations in the area. A Cease and Desist Order (CDO) was then issued on July 5, 2016.

Concerted efforts made by the Dismantling Team composed of representatives from the Local Government Unit-Paracale, Philippine National Police-Camarines Norte, National Bureau of Investigation- Naga, Philippine Coast Guard, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Provincial Environmental Management Office and MGB RO-V personnel to dismantle all illegal structures in the area caused the stoppage of the said illegal mining activities.

It is to be noted that last January 29, 2012, an incident was reported in the said area where two (2) small scale miners died while engaging in illegal small scale mining activities. CDOs were then issued by this Office on November 27, 2012 and May 6, 2015 to cease and desist from doing illegal mining in the area.

This move is in adherence to the mandate of the office as vigilant steward of the country’s mineral resources in pursuance of the promotion of sustainable mineral resources development through responsible mining.