President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. on Wednesday said the administration will not tolerate any "destructive" mining practices, noting that there is no room for irresponsible mining here in the country.
In his keynote address at the opening of the Mining Philippines 2025 International Conference and Exhibition in Taguig City, President Marcos emphasized stricter law enforcement in protecting the environment against reckless mining.
"Irresponsible mining has no place in our nation. We will strictly enforce the laws against practices that destroy forests, that poison rivers, that endanger lives," the President said. "Mining should build communities, not burden them."
The president said while the Philippines holds vast reserves of minerals crucial to the global clean energy transition, economic progress must never come at the expense of people or the planet.
He said the administration's goal is to make mining a pillar of inclusive development -- one that powers the nation's growth while uplifting local communities and protecting ecosystems.
"The wealth from our soil should translate into schools for our children, hospitals for families, and roads that link people with opportunities," Mr. Marcos said.
"The Filipino people deserve to know how their resources are being managed, for these are their treasures as much as they are the nation's," he added.
President Marcos reaffirmed his support for industry reforms that promote transparency and sustainability.
He cited the Enhanced Fiscal Regime for Large-Scale Metallic Mining Act, which creates a fair and consistent taxation framework, and the Philippine Ecosystem and Natural Capital Accounting System Act, which ensures that the country's natural resources are properly measured and managed.
President Marcos also praised the Chamber of Mines of the Philippines for implementing the Towards Sustainable Mining program, a global standard for responsible industry practices, calling it proof that economic growth and environmental protection can coexist.
"We must continue to attract investors who share our values, those who respect our laws, our people, and our environment," he said.