Miners invoking FOI to compel DENR to release audit report

The Chamber of Mines of the Philippines (COMP) is invoking it's right-to-know under the freedom of information (FOI) in compelling the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to make public the specific findings of a months-long audit on the extractive industry.

"This is now being finalized and will be submitted today," COMP Chairman Artemio F. Disini said in a press conference in Pasig City.

The DENR last week announced the closure and suspension of mining companies for violating mining and environmental laws.

Last week, Environment Secretary Regina Paz "Gina" Lopez declined to give reporters copies of the recommendations by the Mines and Geosciences Bureau after the audit. The Cabinet official said she needed to know if the recommendations resonated "with with her principles."

"I think there should be transparency in all the reports you prepare, especially if the reports would lead to the suspension or closure of a mining company," Horacio C. Ramos, a former director of the MGB, said.

COMP Vice President for Legal and Policy Ronald Recidoro said it is the duty of the Environment secretary to make public the mining audit report.

"If she refuses, clearly she's going against the Duterte administration's mandate on transparency," he said.

"Every person accused of an offense must know the precise details of the offense you are being charged with," Recidoro noted. — VS, GMA News