BK presents updates on mining revenue legislation in South Cotabato

A forum on watershed management and food security was held in South Cotabato last August 27, 2015 with more than 40 participants coming from local government units, civil society organizations, and national government agencies.

Bantay Kita Subnational Coordinator for Mindanao Beverly Besmanos presented updates on pending bills in Congress in relation to mining revenues. Mr. Jaybee Garganera, national coordinator of Alyansa Tigil Mina, also presented facts about the negative impacts of mining especially in water. Dr. Lourdes Simpol of Ateneo de Davao University shared some of her insights on politics of ecology in Mindanao. She mentioned of present studies conducted saying that Sagittarius Mines Inc. needs to present a new environmental impact assessment.

Representatives from the National Economic Development Authority, Environmental Management Bureau, and the Mines and Geosciences Bureau also gave their insights.
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Mr. Andres Magallanes of Notre Dame of Marbel University wrapped up the forum and urged that there be a transparent, participatory, and convergent approach in natural resource management where all key stakeholders are working together in coming up with one comprehensive environmental plan.