MGB Regional Office No. VIII

Pursuant to its Mineral Regulation Services under the Mineral Investment Promotion Program, the Mines and Geosciences Bureau Regional Office No. VIII has issued on April 20, 2026 an Industrial Sand and Gravel (ISG) Permit (3rd renewal) for sand and gravel operations in Salog River, Barangays Capudlosan, Doos del Norte and Doos del Sur, municipality of Hindang, Leyte.

The said ISG permit, denominated as IP-2026-003-VIII was granted to Mr. Alvin G. Basal of Bacayan, Cebu City, represented by its duly authorized representative, Mr. Ivan Rey L. Jose. The permit area covers 18.7833 hectares with a validity period of five (5) years and authorizes the permit holder to extract and dispose a total of 150, 000 cubic meters of sand and gravel and other consolidated materials for industrial purposes from its permit area.

The said permit holder is required to ensure faithful compliance with his
obligations under the Environmental Compliance Certificate, Environmental Protection and Enhancement Program (EPEP) and Annual EPEP including the allocation of prescribed annual environmental expense pursuant to Section 171 of the Revised Implementing Rules and Regulations of Republic Act No. 7942.

A Monitoring Trust Fund of not less than P150,000.00 and a Rehabilitation Cash Fund of at least 10% of the approved EPEP shall also be maintained including the required EPEP, AEPEP, Social Development and Management Program (SDMP) and Annual SDMP within the duration of the permit.

𝓢𝓽𝓻𝓮𝓷𝓰𝓽𝓱𝓮𝓷𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓟𝓻𝓸𝓯𝓮𝓼𝓼𝓲𝓸𝓷𝓪𝓵 𝓢𝓽𝓪𝓷𝓭𝓪𝓻𝓭𝓼: 𝓟𝓡𝓒 𝓒𝓸𝓷𝓭𝓾𝓬𝓽𝓼 𝓘𝓷𝓼𝓹𝓮𝓬𝓽𝓲𝓸𝓷 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓜𝓸𝓷𝓲𝓽𝓸𝓻𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓪𝓽 𝓜𝓖𝓑 𝓡𝓮𝓰𝓲𝓸𝓷 𝓥𝓘𝓘𝓘

The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC), through its Professional Regulatory Board (PRB) of Geology, conducted an inspection and monitoring activity at the Mines and Geosciences Bureau Regional Office No. VIII (MGB VIII), on March 26, 2026, reinforcing its commitment to uphold professional standards and ensure regulatory compliance in the practice of geosciences and related disciplines.

During the visit, PRC representatives conducted a comprehensive review of MGB VIII’s operational systems, focusing on the deployment of licensed professionals, documentation of technical outputs and compliance with professional and regulatory guidelines. The inspection also included an assessment of internal processes, records management and adherence to standards governing geological and mining practices.

The inspection and monitoring team was comprised of PRB Geology Chairperson, Hon. Fernando S. Peñarroyo and Members, Hon. Elmer B. Billedo and Hon. Benjamin S. Austria (virtual). Together with them was PRC Regional Office VIII Professional Regulation Officer, Mr. Raymund Michael F. Galupo.

MGB VIII personnel shared their experiences in delivering geoscientific services across Eastern Visayas, often under challenging field conditions. From landslide prone-communities to remote mineralized areas, geologists and mining engineers of MGB VIII play a crucial role in safeguarding lives and supporting sustainable resource management.

Meanwhile, MGB VIII welcomed the initiative, underscoring its commitment to transparency, excellence and service integrity. The Bureau reaffirmed that its adherence to professional standards is central to its mission of responsible mineral resource management and geohazard mitigation.

“This inspection reminds us that our work carries responsibility not just to our agency, but to the communities we serve,” shared Atty. Rodrigo Jay Miralles, Supervising Geologist.

The Board concluded the activity by noting the MGB Region VIII’s compliance with applicable laws and regulations governing the practice of geology and recommended the Office for the issuance of a Certificate of Compliance. Further, the team provided insights on how geological practice can be effectively maintained and streamlined within the operations of the MGB.

Also, during the said inspection and monitoring, the team also facilitated the special oath-taking of one of the recently hired technical personnel of this Office, Mr. Jasper G. Gaviola. He recently passed the Geologist Licensure Examination on November 2025.

As both institutions move forward, the collaboration between PRC and MGB VIII stands as a testament to the shared goal of ensuring that Filipino professionals remain globally competitive, ethically grounded and responsive to the needs of society.

#𝙈𝙞𝙣𝙚𝙍𝙚𝙨𝙥𝙤𝙣𝙨𝙞𝙗𝙞𝙡𝙞𝙩𝙮

Together, we grow a greener future - one seedling at a time.

𝐌𝐆𝐁 𝐕𝐈𝐈𝐈 𝐬𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐧 𝐢𝐧 𝐧𝐞𝐰 𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐞𝐬

The Mines and Geosciences Bureau Regional Office No. VIII led by Regional Director Glenn Marcelo C. Noble, sworn in new appointees and promotee to the various positions in the Regional Office following the approved MGB Rationalization Plan issued by the Department of Budget Management in 2013.

The appointees, composed of four original appointees and one promoted employee, were among the 40 personnel who assumed various vacant positions in the Regional Office out of its 51 approved plantilla positions.

By virtue of their recent appointments, the newly appointed employees were the following: Engr. Erecha B. Sayon as Engineer II; Marvin Robert L. Seno and Maria Therese Diane D. Albano as Senior Geologists and Loren T. Kuizon as Geologist II. Meanwhile, the newly promoted employee was Engr. Jolame P. Decena as Engineer IV.

The MGB Selection and Promotion Board (RO VIII and CO) undertook the evaluation of all the applicants based on the Merit, Selection and Promotion Plan of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and the qualification standards set by the Civil Service Commission.

📢 WE’RE HIRING! 📢

The MGB Regional Office No. VIII is now accepting applications for one (1) Science Research Specialist I (PENRO-Embedded Personnel)….

Apply now and be part of our team.👇

𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐈𝐧𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭: 𝐒𝐃𝐌𝐏 𝐎𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐋𝐆𝐔-𝐆𝐮𝐢𝐮𝐚𝐧 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐬 𝐂𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐄𝐟𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐭

A significant step toward strengthening partnerships for community development was recently undertaken through the conduct of a Social Development and Management Program (SDMP) orientation with the Local Government Unit of Guiuan, Eastern Samar by the Mines and Geosciences Bureau Regional Office No. VIII on March 13-14, 2026. The activity underscored the importance of collaboration among government agencies, local stakeholders and the mining sector in ensuring that resource development translates into meaningful and inclusive progress.

The orientation brought together local officials, representatives of mining companies operating in Manicani and Homonhon Islands and other key stakeholders to deepen their understanding of the SDMP framework, one of the mining industry’s primary mechanisms for delivering social benefits to host and neighboring communities.

𝙎𝙩𝙧𝙚𝙣𝙜𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙐𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙣𝙙𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙤𝙛 𝙎𝘿𝙈𝙋
The SDMP is a mandatory program for mining companies designed to ensure that a portion of their operating costs is allocated to community development initiatives. These include projects in education, health services, infrastructure and livelihood support.

During the orientation, Senior Science Research Specialist Calvin V. Perez of MGB Central Office discussed the legal basis, implementation guidelines, and monitoring mechanisms of the SDMP. Emphasis was placed on transparency, accountability and the active participation of local government units in identifying priority projects that respond to the actual needs of communities.

Participants gained insights into how SDMP funds are programmed and utilized, as well as the roles of various stakeholders in ensuring that these resources are maximized for long-term development.

𝙁𝙤𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝘾𝙤𝙡𝙡𝙖𝙗𝙤𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙇𝙂𝙐𝙨
The involvement of the LGU of Guiuan highlighted the critical role of local governments in the success of SDMP implementation. As frontline partners, LGUs help align development programs with local priorities and ensure that projects are inclusive and responsive.

Hon. Kinna Mae K. Mabansag highlighted that the gathering is more than just a discussion of plans and programs but, a reaffirmation of their shared commitment to inclusive growth, sustainable development and community empowerment.

“With the proper implementation of SDMP by the companies, we are guaranteed that progress is not only measured in numbers, but is likewise felt in the everyday lives of our people – through improved livelihoods, better access to basic services and strengthened local capacities,” Hon. Mabansag added.

The orientation also served as a venue for open dialogue, where local officials shared their perspectives, raised concerns and clarified expectations regarding mining-related programs. This exchange of ideas reinforced the value of participatory governance in achieving sustainable outcomes.

𝙋𝙧𝙤𝙢𝙤𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙄𝙣𝙘𝙡𝙪𝙨𝙞𝙫𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙋𝙚𝙤𝙥𝙡𝙚-𝘾𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙧𝙚𝙙 𝘿𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙡𝙤𝙥𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩
At the core of the SDMP is the goal of improving the quality of life in host and neighboring communities. By focusing on social equity and access to opportunities, the program aims to ensure that the benefits of mining extend beyond economic gains.

Discussions during the orientation highlighted the importance of designing programs that are culturally sensitive, environmentally sound and responsive to vulnerable sectors. This includes prioritizing education, healthcare and sustainable livelihoods that can endure even beyond the life of mining operations.

𝙀𝙣𝙨𝙪𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙏𝙧𝙖𝙣𝙨𝙥𝙖𝙧𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙮 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝘼𝙘𝙘𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙩𝙖𝙗𝙞𝙡𝙞𝙩𝙮
MGB VIII emphasized that effective SDMP implementation requires strong monitoring and evaluation systems. Regular reporting, community consultations and coordination with LGUs are essential in maintaining transparency and ensuring that projects deliver their intended outcomes.

The orientation also reiterated the need for continuous engagement among stakeholders to address challenges and improve program delivery. By fostering a culture of accountability, both government and industry can build trust with local communities.

𝘼 𝙎𝙝𝙖𝙧𝙚𝙙 𝘾𝙤𝙢𝙢𝙞𝙩𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙎𝙪𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙞𝙣𝙖𝙗𝙡𝙚 𝘿𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙡𝙤𝙥𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩
The SDMP orientation with the LGU of Guiuan marked a proactive effort to strengthen partnerships and promote inclusive growth. It demonstrated that sustainable development is best achieved through collaboration, where government, industry and communities work together toward common goals.

As MGB VIII continues to advocate responsible mineral resource development, initiatives like this orientation play a vital role in ensuring that progress is not only measured in economic terms, but also in the well-being and empowerment of the people it aims to serve.

#𝙈𝙞𝙣𝙚𝙍𝙚𝙨𝙥𝙤𝙣𝙨𝙞𝙗𝙞𝙡𝙞𝙩𝙮

𝙁𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙊𝙛𝙛𝙞𝙘𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙊𝙧𝙚: 𝙈𝙂𝘽 𝙑𝙄𝙄𝙄 𝙉𝙤𝙣-𝙏𝙚𝙘𝙝𝙣𝙞𝙘𝙖𝙡 𝙋𝙚𝙧𝙨𝙤𝙣𝙣𝙚𝙡 𝙀𝙭𝙥𝙡𝙤𝙧𝙚 𝙃𝙞𝙣𝙖𝙩𝙪𝙖𝙣 𝙈𝙞𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝘾𝙤𝙧𝙥𝙤𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣

In a meaningful effort to bridge knowledge gaps and foster deeper appreciation of the mining industry, the non-technical personnel of the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) Regional Office No. VIII embarked on an immersive learning visit to the operations of Hinatuan Mining Corporation (HMC)- Manicani Nickel Project (MNP) in Manicani Island, Guiuan Eastern Samar on March 4-5, 2026.

The activity provided participants with a rare opportunity to step beyond their desks and witness firsthand the complexities of mining operations, from extraction processes to environmental management and community engagement.

𝗣𝘂𝗿𝗽𝗼𝘀𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗜𝗺𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗠𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗩𝗶𝘀𝗶𝘁

According to MGB VIII Regional Director Glenn Marcelo C. Noble, the mine visit was designed to give non-technical personnel a clearer and more holistic understanding of the mining industry they help regulate. He emphasized that while many employees are tasked with administrative, financial and support functions, their roles are integral to the effective implementation of mining laws and policies. By seeing actual mining operations, environmental safeguards and community programs on the ground, personnel can better appreciate the real-world impact of their work.

RD Noble highlighted that the initiative strengthens institutional competence by aligning office-based processes with field realities, ultimately contributing to more informed decision-making and improved public service. He further underscored that such exposure fosters a shared sense of responsibility among all employees in promoting responsible and sustainable mineral development.

𝙐𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙣𝙙𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙈𝙞𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝘽𝙚𝙮𝙤𝙣𝙙 𝙋𝙖𝙥𝙚𝙧𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙠

For many of the participants whose roles are primarily administrative, the visit offered valuable context to the documents, permits and reports they regularly handle. At the mine site, HMC personnel presented the different stages of mining, from exploration and development to production and rehabilitation, highlighting the regulatory frameworks that govern each phase.

The exposure reinforced the importance of compliance with mining laws and policies, particularly those related to environmental protection, safety and social responsibility. HMC emphasized that its operations are guided by approved feasibility studies and regulatory permits, allowing the responsible extraction of nickel and associated minerals in the area.

𝗘𝗻𝘃𝗶𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗦𝘁𝗲𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽 𝗶𝗻 𝗣𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗲

A key highlight of the visit was the company’s environmental protection and rehabilitation initiatives. Participants observed ongoing efforts such as reforestation, sediment control measures and land rehabilitation which are integral components of responsible mining. These initiatives align with the company’s commitment to sustainable practices and compliance with government regulations. Regular information and education campaigns conducted by HMC also aim to keep communities informed about environmental safeguards and operational updates.

𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐅𝐢𝐫𝐬𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐝

Beyond the mine site, MGB VIII personnel also visited several social development projects implemented by HMC for host communities in Manicani Island. These included community infrastructures, access to basic services, and livelihood support initiatives designed to improve the quality of life of residents.

Through the Mine Visit, participants gained firsthand insight into how the company’s Social Development and Management Program (SDMP) translates into tangible benefits for local communities. Interactions with residents and community partners highlighted the importance of inclusive development, where mining operations contribute not only to economic activity but also to social progress. The experience underscored the role of MGB in ensuring that such programs are properly implemented, monitored and aligned with the needs of host and neighboring communities.

“For a non-technical personnel like me, the visit enhanced my understanding of the mining industry and emphasized that responsible mining requires balancing economic development with environmental protection and community welfare,” said Evalyn Barillo, Officer-in-Charge, Finance and Administrative Division.

𝐄𝐧𝐠𝐚𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐀𝐝𝐝𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐬

The visit also shed light on the social dimension of mining. Manicani Island has long been at the center of discussions surrounding mining activities, with various stakeholders expressing both support and concern over its impacts. Through public consultations and dialogues, communities are given platforms to voice their perspectives on mining operations and proposed expansions. In previous engagements, local groups have raised environmental concerns, while government agencies and the company continue to emphasize transparency and inclusive decision-making.

This dynamic underscores the importance of balanced development where economic opportunities are pursued alongside the protection of communities and ecosystems. This also reinforces the importance of transparency, accountability and continuous engagement among government, industry and local stakeholders.

𝙏𝙧𝙚𝙚 𝙋𝙡𝙖𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙎𝙪𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙞𝙣𝙖𝙗𝙞𝙡𝙞𝙩𝙮

As part of the visit, MGB VIII non-technical personnel actively participated in a tree planting activity alongside HMC personnel. The activity symbolized their shared commitment to environmental protection and sustainable resource management.

By planting seedlings, the participants experienced firsthand the importance of rehabilitation efforts in restoring mined-out areas and maintaining ecological balance. The activity also reinforced the role of every MGB employee, not only as regulators but also as stewards of the environment.

𝗔 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲

More than just a field visit, the activity served as a transformative experience for MGB VIII personnel. It deepened their understanding of the mining sector not only in terms of operations, but, also in its environmental and social dimensions. Likewise, it strengthened the participants' appreciation of the bureau’s role in ensuring that mineral resources are developed responsibly.

By connecting office functions to on-the-ground realities, the initiative reinforces MGB’s commitment to informed governance where every employee, regardless of role, contributes to the sustainable management of the country’s mineral resources.

As participants returned to their respective offices, they carried with them a broader perspective, one that recognizes mining as a multifaceted industry where technical processes, environmental stewardship and community development must go hand in hand.

By essence, the participants did not only gain new knowledge, but also a renewed sense of purpose, grounded in the realities of “ore” and inspired to support a mining industry that is transparent, accountable and responsive to the needs of both the people and the environment.

#𝙈𝙞𝙣𝙚𝙍𝙚𝙨𝙥𝙤𝙣𝙨𝙞𝙗𝙞𝙡𝙞𝙩𝙮