The Department of Environment and Natural Resources Cordillera (DENR CAR) conferred the Gawad Kalikasan Award to the provincial of Apayao during the Philippine Environment Month Celebration, culminating on June 30, 2023, at the DENR compound, Baguio City.
The provincial government was nominated for the Gawad Kalikasan Award by the Mines and Geosciences Bureau of the Cordillera (MGB CAR) in appreciation of their invaluable leadership, commitment, and dedication in the implementation of environmental laws, programs, and activities that contributed to responsible mining, community health, economic upliftment, increased environmental protection and awareness, and ecological stability.
In addition, the provincial government’s implementation of mining policies and proactive monitoring efforts contributed to the province having the highest number of declared Minahang Bayan in the region.
The Minahang Bayan is a government-allocated territory that small-scale miners can explore, develop, and exploit for commercial production while adhering to the guidelines of DENR.
Apayao ‘s collaborative approach, which involves various stakeholders, also ensures effective monitoring and enforcement, leading to a responsible and environmentally conscious mining industry in Apayao.