Mining activities in the Philippines are set to resume at full capacity as the government lifts restrictions imposed to control the spread of COVID-19 pandemic. The country’s mines bureau has issued a safety protocol to assist mining contractors/permit holders.
Philippines’ Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) has issued guidelines that states mining activities can resume with 50pc to full workforce according to their categorization zone. Miners will have to provide Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs), supplies and other materials and follow a “no face mask, no entry” policy.
For the shipment of minerals, supplies, materials and other commodities, cargo vessels will have to observe a 14-day quarantine starting from the departure of the vessel at the last port of call. After the completion of 14-day quarantine, it shall be boarded at the designated anchorage area for clearance, as per the guidelines issued by concerned local authorities. No vessel crew would be allowed to disembark in the Philippines.