The Mines and Geosciences Bureau in the Cordillera (MGB-CAR) has ordered all small-scale mining operations in the region to stop as a precaution against possible landslides due to heavy rains from Tropical Storm #NandoPH.

Supervising Geologist Jethro Panganiban said they have already identified high-risk areas and coordinated with local governments and disaster offices.

“Iprinesent na natin sa kanila sa mga LGUs ang mga landslide area, ’yung possible na mga lugar na may mga pagguho. Andoon na rin ang mga BDRRMO at LGUs,” he said.

The Office of Civil Defense-Cordillera (OCD-CAR) also issued a reminder to operators.

“During inclement weather, iwasan muna natin ang mga small-scale mining,” Frankie Cortez, chief of OCD-CAR’s Operations Section, said.

In Itogon, Benguet, where more than 4,000 miners work daily in tunnels, authorities advised workers as early as Wednesday, September 17, 2025, to stay out of mining sites. Barangay officials were also tasked to help monitor compliance.

But the Itogon Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) admitted that monitoring remains a challenge because of the large number of miners.

“Sa mga small scale wala munang papasok ’yung mga minero, walang papasok sa mga tunnel nila,” Engr. Cyril Batcagan, Itogon DRRM Officer, said.

Authorities urged miners to prioritize safety and comply with the temporary suspension until the weather improves.