The Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) has called on the mining industry to play a greater role in helping the country prepare for the anticipated water shortages associated with the El Niño phenomenon by supporting groundwater resource development and community-based water initiatives.
The MGB, through its Mine Safety, Environment, and Social Development Division (MSESDD) and Mineral Economics, Information and Publication Division (MEIPD), in partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), held a stakeholders' forum on July 30 at the MGB Compound in Quezon City to discuss how groundwater assessment and responsible mining practices can contribute to water security during prolonged dry periods.
The forum brought together representatives from the DENR, mining companies and other stakeholders to examine strategies for improving the country's preparedness for El Niño and mitigating its impact on vulnerable communities.
Dr. Kevin Garas, officer-in-charge of the Land Geological Survey Division and concurrent chief of the Geohazard and Engineering Geology Division, presented the MGB's National Groundwater Resource and Vulnerability Assessment Program, highlighting groundwater as a strategic alternative water source during drought conditions.
Garas cited forecasts from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), warning that reduced rainfall associated with El Niño could adversely affect agriculture, water supply, public health and other socioeconomic sectors.
He said groundwater, when properly assessed, developed and managed, could supplement water supplies in areas facing shortages.
Garas also outlined the accomplishments of the groundwater assessment project conducted from 2015 to 2018, which involved regional-scale mapping of provinces, regions and watersheds to evaluate the country's groundwater resources. He highlighted the publication of the Groundwater Atlas of the Philippines and demonstrated the use of the MGB Mining and Geology Information Portal, which provides scientific groundwater data to national government agencies, local government units, researchers and the private sector.
The presentation was followed by discussions on groundwater sustainability, recharge capacity, water quality, permitting requirements and the potential effects of mining activities on groundwater resources.
MGB Assistant Director Dr. Karlo Queaño emphasized the importance of scientific assessments in ensuring the sustainable management and utilization of groundwater resources, providing additional insights on groundwater quality in mineralized areas and hydrogeological considerations.
DENR Undersecretary for Field Operations and Line Bureaus Joselin Marcus E. Fragada urged mining companies to become more proactive partners in disaster preparedness by implementing sustainable, community-centered initiatives that extend beyond their host communities.
Fragada also encouraged mining companies to work together to promote the industry's positive contributions through a unified communications strategy and stressed that such initiatives should deliver lasting benefits while reinforcing responsible and sustainable mining practices.
He likewise called for continued collaboration among the DENR, MGB and the mining industry to monitor progress, share best practices and strengthen partnerships.
In his closing remarks, MGB Director Larry M. Heradez thanked participants and reaffirmed the bureau's commitment to providing scientific information and technical expertise to support evidence-based policymaking and sustainable resource management.
The MGB said the forum underscores its commitment to advancing practical and science-based solutions through stronger collaboration between government and industry to promote the responsible and sustainable use of the country's geological resources.
