Small-scale miners and mining stakeholders gathered at the Minahang Bayan in Brgy. Malaya, Labo, Camarines Norte, on June 9 for a Miner-to-Miner Learning Visit, showcasing environmentally sound mining practices.
The activity is part of the Compassionate Gold Project in Mountain Province and Benguet, funded by Civil Society in Development and Dialogos and implemented by BAN Toxics in partnership with the National Coalition of Small-Scale Miners of the Philippines, Inc. (NCSSMPI).
The learning visit brought together members of the Baguio Miners Cooperative, representatives of the Benguet small-scale mining sector, and delegates from the Mountain Province Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) to exchange knowledge and strengthen collaboration among small-scale mining communities and stakeholders.
Hosted by the Magkamatao Small-Scale Miners Association (MSSMA), participants were given a firsthand look at the association’s mercury-free gold processing facility and the operations within its Minahang Bayan. Through site visits, discussions, and peer-to-peer exchanges, participants shared experiences and best practices that promote safer, more responsible, and environmentally sound small-scale mining.
MSSMA’s journey in Labo, Camarines Norte, home to one of the first declared Minahang Bayan sites in both the province and the Bicol Region, demonstrates that a formalized, inclusive, and environmentally sound small-scale mining industry is achievable. Its experience offers valuable lessons for other mining communities striving for a just transition to safer, mercury-free small-scale mining practices.