Miners welcome new DENR chief with 'cautious optimism'

The Chamber of Mines of the Philippines (COMP) on Monday welcomed "with cautious optimism" the appointment of Roy A. Cimatu as Environment secretary.

"The Chamber of Mines of the Philippines welcomes with cautious optimism the appointment of former AFP Chief of Staff Roy Cimatu as secretary of Environment and Natural Resources," Ronald R.S Recidoro, COMP vice president for Legal and Policy, said in a text message.

President Rodrigo R. Duterte has chosen Cimatu to replace Gina Lopez at the helm of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Malacañang announced on Monday.

"His sterling record in government service speaks well of Gen. Cimatu and we hope that his appointment finally answers our long-held call for a DENR secretary who has a balanced appreciation for environmental protection and natural resources management," Recidoro said.

COMP was among the groups and individuals opposing the confirmation of Lopez as Environment secretary before the bicameral Commission on Appointments.

A staunch environmentalist, Lopez ordered to close 23 mines and suspend five others. She also cancelled 75 mining contracts and banned open-pit mining.

Recidoro said COMP will work in cooperation with the government to promote responsible mining in the country.

"The Chamber remains committed to working with President Duterte’s administration in promoting responsible mining, and we look forward to working with Secretary Cimatu in enforcing our country’s environmental and natural resource laws," he said. — Jon Viktor Cabuenas/VDS, GMA News