The Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) has completed a three-day national deputation and capacity-building program for 62 candidates for Deputy Environment and Natural Resources Officers (DENROs) for Mines, strengthening the government’s enforcement network against mining-related violations.
The activity concluded on August 27, 2026, at The Hive Hotel in Quezon City after beginning August 25. It brought together personnel from the MGB Central and Regional Offices, selected Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) field offices, the Environmental Law Enforcement and Protection Service (ELEPS), and partner law enforcement agencies.
MGB Director Larry M. Heradez said during the opening that deputation involves not only the granting of authority but also responsibility and accountability.
He stressed that deputized personnel must understand the scope and limitations of their authority and exercise their functions responsibly, while stronger coordination among MGB, DENR field offices and law enforcement agencies is needed to address mining-related violations.
Participants underwent lectures, discussions, open forums and practical exercises covering the legal framework for DENRO for Mines deputation, mining operations and the mineral value chain, mineral and rock identification, mineral processing, mining laws and permitting, small-scale mining, and mining law enforcement procedures.
Training also covered evidence handling, case documentation and interagency coordination, with particular emphasis on the DENR Environmental Law Enforcement Manual of Operations (ELEMO).
Participants conducted practical exercises involving the preparation of seizure receipts and enforcement reports, evidence handling and documentation, and the custody and safekeeping of seized items.
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62 candidates evaluated
The activity resulted in 62 candidates undergoing the prescribed training and evaluation in preparation for the issuance of Deputation Orders and Identification Cards.
MGB Assistant Director Karlo L. Queaño said coordinated and consistent enforcement is essential to responsible and sustainable mineral resource development.
Queaño also emphasized accountability in implementing mining laws and the need to help communities pursue formalization where appropriate, while ensuring that individuals remain accountable under the law.
The MGB said the training also allowed participants from different government offices and agencies to exchange operational experiences and improve coordination in mining law enforcement.
The bureau plans to continue strengthening the DENRO for Mines program through further deputation and capacity-building activities at both the MGB Central Office and regional offices.
The efforts will also include closer coordination with DENR field offices and partner law enforcement agencies to expand and sustain a competent, coordinated and accountable mining law enforcement network.
