Distribution and Use of Mining Fees
- Fifty percent of mining fees accrue to the province where the mining claim is located.
- The other fifty percent accrues to the municipality, or full amount to chartered cities.
- Local government units must provide resources for registration and safekeeping of mining documents.
Resolution of Conflicts and Disputes in Mining Locations
- Disputes are submitted to the Director of Mines for decision.
- Decisions may be appealed to the Secretary of Agriculture and Natural Resources within 30 days.
- Further appeal to courts can be made within 30 days after administrative decision.
- Lack of appeal renders the decision final and binding.
Rights and Permits Related to Mining Claims
- Valid claim location grants rights to exploration and occupation from registry date.
- Temporary mining permit issued within 45 days of application if conditions are met.
- Mining and disposal of minerals for commercial purposes allowed under temporary permits.
- Holders of certain old claims may mine commercially without temporary permits but must pay royalties.
- The Secretary may cancel temporary permits for violations after due process.
Surveying of Mining Claims
- Director of Mines appoints competent surveyors to conduct official surveys.
- Applicants must apply for surveys before or with lease applications.
- Survey costs are borne by the applicants.
- Applicants may hire deputy surveyors at reasonable rates.
Filing Period and Abandonment of Mining Claims
- Lease application must be made within four years from claim registration.
- Failure to apply within this period is deemed abandonment.
- Abandoned claims become subject to relocation.
- Original locators who failed to apply cannot relocate claims.
Adverse Claims During Application Period
- Adverse claims must be filed under oath detailing basis and boundaries.
- Claims based on previously decided protests are not entertained.
- Proceedings are stayed until settlement or court decision.
- Adverse claimants must diligently pursue court action within 30 days or waive claim.
- Certified court judgment governs lease issuance, including multiple leases if applicable.
- Judgment against all parties results in dismissal of lease application.
Penal Provisions for Unauthorized Extraction or Theft
- Penalties for mining without permit or lease, or unauthorized extraction include imprisonment (6 months to 6 years) and/or fines (₱1,000 to ₱12,000).
- Offenders must also compensate for damages caused.
- In cases involving associations or corporations, responsible officers (president, manager) held liable.
Effectivity
- The Act takes effect immediately upon approval.