SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union – The Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)-Regional Office 1 commemorates its 125th Founding Anniversary that coincides with the celebration of Mining Month this November.
MGB Ilocos Regional Director Carlos Tayag said that different activities are scheduled this month to present and inform the public about the mandates of the bureau.
Tayag noted that MGB is not only responsible for the administration and disposition of mineral resources but also conducts geological research and explorations.
“For instance, our outputs from the geological activities are used for the identification of landslide- prone areas in our region, and also geohazard assessments used in the formulation of disaster risk reduction and management plans,” Tayag said.
Various activities were lined up for the month-long celebration which jumpstarted on November 6.
On Monday, MGB Ilocos launched the exhibit showcasing the rocks and minerals collection/specimen, a man-made tunnel replica with posters briefly explaining the stages of mining, and other related information, education and communication materials.
A press conference was also staged during the kick-off.
From November 8 to 17, MGB will stage a series of refresher courses on the conduct of geohazard mapping and assessment for rain-induced landslide and flooding to be held in Alaminos City, Pangasinan.
A career orientation on the mining and geology profession will be hosted among students in this city on November 10.
Then on November 14 to 17, the annual National Mine Safety and Environment Conference will be staged in Baguio City.
MGB Ilocos will also conduct capacity building on small-scale mining in Quirino, Ilocos Sur from November 23 to 24.
Moreover, on November 28, a mine tour of a large-scale mining site located in Bacnotan, La Union will be organized.
In culmination, a Service Excellence Awarding and Closing Ceremony will be staged on November 30 here.
Tayag enjoined the public and private stakeholders to engage in the celebration. BY: CAREN GRACE R. CABANAYAN-CARBONELL