AMONG the applauded portions of President Rodrigo R. Duterte's State of the Nation Address (Sona) was his stand for the environment and warning against the mining industry that destroys the environment, pushing a ban on open pit mining.
He further called on all agencies of government to uphold the concept of inter-generational responsibility anchored on the right to a balanced and healthy ecology.
"To the mining industry, I say this once again and maybe for the last time, do not destroy the environment or compromise our resources; repair what you have mismanaged. Try to change [your] management radically because this time you will have restrictive policies. The prohibition of open pit mining is one. [applause] It is destroying my country. It is destroying the environment. It will destroy the world of tomorrow for our children," he said in the Sona that was overshadowed by what has earlier transpired at the House of Representatives.
The President pointed out that his administration will not stop only in being able to raise revenues to fund the government, but has to live up to its promise of inclusive growth.
"Do not just give me taxes. I can get it from other sources. Give me what needs to be given to my countrymen," he said.
He stressed that protection of environment is a non-negotiable policy of his government.
"The protection of the environment must be top priority and extracted resources must be used for the benefit of the Filipino people, not just a select few," he said, pointing out that nature has endowed the country with wealth that generations can benefit from.
"Again, I warn irresponsible miners, along with their patrons, to stop destroying our watersheds, recharge areas, forests, and aquatic resources," he said, saying that while he does not intend to pick up a fight with the moneyed, they still have to deal with him when they are into mining.
"Expect reforms, radical ones," he said. (SAE)