Duterte tells miners to heed int'l standards or face sanctions

President-elect Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday said mining companies in the Philippines must comply with environmental standards or else face the risk of sanctions.

"For small scale mining, I want the trees planted... If you will not do it I will cancel the permit," Duterte as part of his response to the 10 recommendations by the business community to grow the economy.

"For I will require you to go to Canada or Australia... Learn how to mine the precious metals... In making money out of the earth...you have to do it right. If you cannot do it right then get out," he added.

The recommendations were submitted by business leaders at the conclusion of Sulong Pilipinas, a two consultative meeting between businessmen and Duterte's economic managers.

"There will be a comprehensive review of the mining claims of concessions given. And you must endeavor. If you are into it, be sure that you have enough resources," the President-elect said.

In his thanksgiving party earlier this month, Duterte accused big firms of destroying the environment, but noted that they are welcome as long as they follow international mining standards like those in place in Australia.

"There's a law and so if there's a law you have to allow it because the law allows it," he said.

"In making money out of precious metals that belong to the Filipino people, you have to do it right," Duterte added.
He mentioned that environmentalist Gina Lopez talked to him and raised the problems in mining industry.

Duterte earlier, offered Lopez to head the Department of Environment and Natural Resources. – With Ted Cordero/Jon Viktor Cabuenas/VDS, GMA News