Miners Coalition Finalizes Proposed Amendments to People’s Small-Scale Mining Act

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Officers of the National Coalition of Small-Scale Miners in the Philippines, Inc. (NCSSMPI), along with representatives from the Associated Labor Unions-Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (ALU-TUCP), International Labor Organization (ILO), BAN Toxics, and the Mining and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) of the DENR, concluded a two-day roundtable discussion on the proposed amendments to RA 7076, or the People’s Small-Scale Mining Act.

Held on September 19 and 20, 2024, at the TUCP Office in Quezon City, attendees reviewed and suggested further revisions to House Bill (HB) 6408, titled “An Act Amending Republic Act No. 7076, Otherwise Known as ‘An Act Creating a People's Small-Scale Mining Program, and for Other Purposes.’” HB 6408 was filed in Congress on November 28, 2022 by Deputy House Speaker Raymond Democrito Mendoza of the TUCP Partylist. On August 28, 2024, the bill was approved by the House Committee on Environment and Natural Resources.

According to NCSSMPI’s newly elected president, Josephine Balonga, the coalition has been pushing for amendments to RA 7076 since its founding in 2016. “The 30-year-old RA 7076 is already outdated. Its provisions generally hinder the full potential of the small-scale mining sector.”

The proposed amendments in HB 6408 seek to address the exorbitant costs of formalizing a Minahang Bayan or People’s Mining Area, the limited validity of mining contracts, and the legal barriers posed by the current definition of small-scale mining under RA 7076, among others.

Currently, RA 7076’s definition of small-scale mining restricts miners to manual labor and rudimentary tools, prohibiting the use of modern machinery and other methods. The law also limits small-scale miners from extracting minerals other than gold.

Balonga also noted that the application requirements for legalizing or formalizing small-scale mining operations are nearly the same as those for large-scale mining, which she described as “unfair and difficult for the sector because small-scale miners do not have the same resources as large-scale operations.”

“As small-scale miners, we aim to contribute directly to our nation’s wealth while ensuring environmentally sustainable mining practices. But we can only do this if we are formalized and supported by our government,” Balonga added.

There are an estimated 500,000 artisanal and small-scale gold miners in the country, with millions more indirectly relying on the sector for their livelihoods. According to research by BAN Toxics, the sector is closely linked to extreme poverty and is generally considered illegal in the country. The industry remains heavily unregulated, with incidents of fatal accidents, child labor, inhumane working conditions, and rampant use of highly toxic mercury.

Arleen Honrade, of BAN Toxics’ Community Development Unit and the Coalition Secretary, emphasized that, aside from amending RA 7076, the government should also explore ways to support mercury-free technologies for small-scale miners.

Small-scale gold mining accounts for an estimated 70-80% of the country’s total gold reserves. Small-scale miners are mandated by law to channel their gold produce to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

According to Balonga, the Coalition will intensify its lobbying and campaign efforts in the coming weeks to gather support from lawmakers.

Blogapalooza Leads Advocacy for Children’s Wishes with Project Headshot Clinic

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Blogapalooza, the Philippines' premier influencer marketing company, took a stand for hope and unity through a meaningful campaign benefiting children with critical illnesses. In collaboration with Project Headshot Clinic and Make-A-Wish Philippines, the event brought together creators, influencers, and advocates for a cause that aims to grant the wishes of children facing critical health challenges.

“This initiative is about more than just bringing people together; it’s about showing these children that they are not alone in their battles,” said Ace Gapuz, CEO of Blogapalooza. “By partnering with influencers and creators, we’re using the power of digital platforms to amplify a message of hope and resilience.”

With the theme centered around the Japanese legend of folding 1,000 origami cranes—symbolizing strength and solidarity—the event was held during Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. Every photo taken during the event symbolized a crane, with proceeds going directly to Make-A-Wish Philippines, an organization dedicated to fulfilling the wishes of children battling serious conditions, including cancer.

While Project Headshot Clinic, spearheaded by conceptual photographer Niccolo Cosme, played a key role in providing the visual element of the campaign, Blogapalooza ensured that influencers and creators rallied behind the cause to maximize its reach. “It’s inspiring to witness influencers leverage their platforms for something that truly matters. We’re proud to have united them for this advocacy,” Gapuz added.

Cosme, who is known for turning headshots into advocacy movements, said, “Through this collaboration, we were able to create a visual representation of the hope we all have for these children. Every headshot taken reflects that shared hope and support.”

The event saw participation from key influencers, including Blogapalooza BX talents such as Chal Maling, Rozel Basilio, Ezra Mane, and Chef Gelo Guison, alongside well-known figures like Macoy Dubs, Alec Cuenca, Jako de Leon, and Diana Meneses.

“We are grateful to our partners and sponsors like Korea Garden PH and Aperture Philippines for helping us bring this advocacy to life,” Gapuz said.

As Blogapalooza continues to champion meaningful campaigns, Gapuz emphasized, “This is just one of many steps we’re taking to use our influence for positive change. We’ll continue to bring people together, share their stories, and offer hope to those who need it most.” 

About Blogapalooza 

Blogapalooza is the Philippines' premier influencer marketing company, connecting brands with content creators, influencers, and digital personalities. With a commitment to fostering meaningful partnerships and promoting positive change, Blogapalooza empowers influencers to use their platforms for social good. As a leader in the industry, Blogapalooza has spearheaded numerous campaigns aimed at amplifying important causes, while also providing brands with innovative and impactful marketing solutions. Through its events, collaborations, and digital initiatives, Blogapalooza continues to be a driving force in shaping the future of influencer marketing in the country.

DepEd Expresses Gratitude to House of Representatives for FY 2025 Budget Approval

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The Department of Education (DepEd), under the leadership of Education Secretary Sonny Angara, extended its heartfelt appreciation to the House of Representatives for the approval of its proposed Php 793.1 billion budget for Fiscal Year (FY) 2025. The budget, part of the National Expenditure Program (NEP), was approved on Tuesday.

Secretary Angara expressed his gratitude to House Speaker Martin Romualdez, Budget Sponsor Representative Maria Carmen Zamora, and the members of the House for their unwavering support. “We sincerely thank Speaker Romualdez, Rep. Zamora, and the entire House of Representatives for their dedication to uplifting our education system. This budget reflects our shared commitment to unlocking the full potential of every Filipino learner,” Secretary Angara said.

The approved budget aligns with President Ferdinand R. “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.'s directive to fully harness the nation’s educational potential. It will support critical initiatives such as the construction of new classrooms, rehabilitation of school facilities, the DepEd Computerization Program, procurement of learning tools and equipment, teacher recruitment and training, the School-Based Feeding Program, and various government assistance and subsidies.

Additionally, funding will be allocated to DepEd’s attached agencies, including the National Book Development Board (NBDB), National Council for Children’s Television (NCCT), National Museum, Philippine High School for the Arts (PHSA), Early Childhood Care and Development Council (ECCD), and the National Academy of Sports (NAS).

Budget Sponsor Rep. Maria Carmen Zamora emphasized the importance of the budget in enhancing the quality of basic education across the country. "This funding will empower DepEd to continue its mission of providing quality education, ensuring that our learners are prepared for the future's challenges and opportunities," she said. “With your continued support, we can make quality basic education a reality for all.”

During the deliberations, five lawmakers either raised clarifications or expressed support for the budget. Secretary Angara also acknowledged the constructive feedback from ACT Partylist Representative France Castro, which contributed to the revision of DepEd Order No. 12, s. 2024. This amendment to DepEd Order No. 010, s. 2024, introduces greater flexibility in teaching hours under the MATATAG Curriculum, promoting a healthier work-life balance for educators while ensuring improved educational outcomes.