MGB LEADS ASSESSMENT OF CARAGA MINING FIRMS

The Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) spearheaded the Virtual and Offsite Safety and Health, Environmental and Social Development (SHES) and Management Systems Audit of Caraga mining firms on August 2 to 10, 2021 via Microsoft Teams.

The audit started with an entry meeting wherein the MGB Central Office technical personnel headed by Engr. Marcial H. Mateo and the MGB 13 personnel headed by Engr. Francis Glenn N. Suante were introduced, and it was then followed by the opening message imparted by OIC Regional Director Larry M. Heradez.

The said activity which was conducted in a period of seven working days, comprised of the audit comprised team and three comprehensive assessment Caraga mining companies, namely Sinosteel Philippines H.Y. Mining Corporation, Adnama Mining Resources, Inc., and SR Metals Incorporated.

The days 2 and 3 of the audit focused on the review and evaluation of submitted documents and records. Verifications with Contractors/Permit Holders/ Permittees were carried out on Days 4 and 5.

The preliminary audit reports preparation and discussion of SHES Audit Team with MGB 13 focal persons took place on Day 6, and the exit meeting officially concluded the audit on Day 7.

As a whole, the MGB 13 personnel performed their duties and functions to ensure that the Safety and Health, Environmental Management and Social Development Programs of mining firms in exploration and operating stages are substantially implemented and mandatory compliances are strictly observed for CY 2020.

Meanwhile, the MGB aims for continual improvement in its efforts to comply with the findings and recommendations of the auditors as it advances the efficient delivery of services.

The SHES Audit team of the MGB Central Office and the Mine Safety, Environment, and Social Development Division (MSESDD) of MGB 13 took part in the said audit. (Engr. Queenibeth L. Plaza, MGB-13/PIA-Surigao del Norte)