MANILA, Philippines -- The Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) developed a Safety and Health, Environment, and Social Development and Management (SHES) Manual, the requirements of which are inclined with the principle of sustainable development that is both pro-people and pro-environment.

Issued through MGB Memorandum Circular (MC) No. 2021-006, the SHES Manual shall serve as guide for Mining Contractors/Permit Holders/Permittees in the development of project specific SHES management practices, particularly in the preparation and implementation of various SHES plan and programs pursuant to the provisions of Republic Act (RA) No. 7942 or the Philippine Mining Act of 1995 and its Revised Implementing Rules and Regulations.

“This Memorandum Circular shall cover the preparation, approval, and implementation of the Safety and Health Program, Environmental Work Program, Environmental Protection and Enhancement Program, Final Mine Rehabilitation and/or Decommissioning Plan, and Social and Development Management Program of all existing and proposed explorations, mining and mineral processing projects that are covered by RA No. 7942,” the MC reads.

“Plans and/or programs already under the review of the MGB and/or other interagency Committees (e.g. Mine Rehabilitation Fund Committee, Contingent Liability and Rehabilitation Fund Steering Committee, etc.) upon the effectivity of this Order need not to be revised accordingly,” it added.

According to the MGB, the standardized guidelines and outlines are intended to be used by all Mining Contractors/Permit Holders/Permittees, the MGB Central Office and its Regional Offices, including other interagency committees, for the preparation, review, evaluation, and/or approval of the above-mentioned SHES plan and programs.

The full version of the SHES Manual can be accessed through this link: Safety and Health, Environment and Social Development and Management Manual. (PR)