Philippine ministers concern over mass pit closure
Philippine officials have warned that the decision by Secretary of Environment and Natural Resources Regina Lopez to close 23 mines could cause huge economic losses and unemployment for a large number of local workers.
Manila (VNA) – Philippine officials have warned that the decision by Secretary ofEnvironment and Natural Resources Regina Lopez to close 23 mines could cause hugeeconomic losses and unemployment for a large number of local workers.
Secretary of Socioeconomic Planning ErnestoPernia said on February 5 that more scientific studies are required before decidingto close over 20 mines as it could hinder economic growth and cost jobs.
Previously, Finance Secretary CarlosDominguez also posted misgivings about the order on his official Twitteraccount, as saying it could affect the welfare of 1.2 million people and resultin unemployment among mine workers.
The order ofEnvironment and Natural Resources Secretary Gina Lopez came after the outcome of a government audit thatshowed the mining industry has been involved in illegal logging and riverpollution.
The move hasbeen strongly backed by President Rodrigo Duterte.
The Philippinesis the world’s top supplier of nickel ore and the main exporter to China. The pitclosure decision has already pushed up global nickel prices and cut localmining shares.-VNA
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Illustrative image (Source: Skaffinter National) 
