The fate of 20 mining operations hangs in the balance after President Rodrigo Duterte sacked the head of the audit committee tasked to review all large-scale mining operations in the country. Jasareno could no longer continue his function as Environment undersecretary as his appointment letter remained pending at the Office of the President, Jacinto noted. The audit teams also recommended the suspension of 20 other miners for environmental violations, unsystematic mining methods and outstanding social issues. The companies, mostly nickel operations, would be suspended unless they are able to address the shortcomings. Jacinto refused to comment on how Jasareno’s case would affect the timetable for the results of the mining audit.

Source: Manila Times October 10, 2016 16:07 UTC