Anti-illegal mining, environmental protection mark MisOr guv’s 1st yr

TheMonitorMindanaoToday.com | Anti-illegal mining, environmental protection mark MisOr guv’s 1st yr

By: Nef Luczon

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – Efforts in the anti-illegal mining campaign and environmental protection were among the highlights during the first year of Misamis Oriental Gov. Juliette Uy’s administration.

During Friday’s Governor’s Report, Uy said the launch of the provincial government’s Task Force Kalikasan and Kalinaw was a pivotal step that led to the confiscation of illegally extracted mineral ores and equipment.

“The arrest and prosecution of illegal miners encouraged our LGUs (local government units) to enhance our way of preserving our nature,” she said.

The province’s campaign against illegal mining became significant, ranking among the most highly valued operations by the Police Regional Office in Northern Mindanao, which contributed PHP81.3 million, including PHP1.7 million in confiscated mineral ores during operations from July 9 to 15.

Uy also encouraged local government units (LGUs) to plant more trees in public spaces to reduce the effects of climate change and to foster climate-resilient communities.

She cited the LGU of Opol, which initiated reforestation using the Miyawaki method, a technique for creating dense, fast-growing native mini-forests.

Uy said Opol’s reforestation practice will serve as a blueprint for the province-wide project to plant more trees.

Aside from the environmental achievements, the Governor’s Report highlighted Uy’s accomplishments in the local economy and agriculture, emphasizing the exploration of alternative crop cultivation for farmers and its potential for a circular economy.

Uy also reported progress in barangay governance, health and social services, livelihood, and youth development. (PNA)

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