Question & AnswerQ&A (EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 270)
The Government's policy is to promote responsible mineral resources exploration, development, and utilization to enhance economic growth, adhering to sustainable development principles, justice, equity, cultural sensitivity, and respect for Philippine sovereignty.
Section 1 and Section 2 of Article XII and Section 16 of Article II of the 1987 Philippine Constitution are cited, emphasizing national economic goals, State control over mineral resources, and the policy to protect a balanced and healthful ecology.
The DENR is the primary government agency responsible for the conservation, management, development, and proper use of the country's mineral resources, as well as leading the preparation of the Mineral Action Plan (MAP).
Guiding principles include clear, stable investment policies; value-adding through downstream industries; promotion of small-scale mining; adoption of efficient technologies; environmental protection; ecological integrity; multiple land use framework; remediation of abandoned mines; equitable sharing of benefits; public information campaigns; and meaningful stakeholder consultation.
It mandates that environmental protection is paramount at every mining stage, requires mitigation and progressive rehabilitation, upholds ecological integrity including biodiversity and small island ecosystems, and prioritizes remediation of abandoned mines.
It calls for support mechanisms including sustained mineral exploration programs, research and development, capability building, clear regulatory policies, and promotion of small-scale mining as a formal sector.
The MAP is a strategic plan that sets rules and guidelines for mineral resource exploration, development, and utilization, and the DENR is tasked with its formulation in consultation with relevant government agencies and stakeholders.
The DENR leads the formulation, consulting with the Department of Trade and Industry, Department of the Interior and Local Government, Department of Finance, National Economic Development Authority, National Anti-Poverty Commission, National Commission on Indigenous Peoples, the mining industry, and civil society.
The benefits should be equitably shared among various government units and affected communities to promote justice and equity.
The Executive Order took effect immediately upon its signing on January 16, 2004.