by mgb6iloilo | Sep 2, 2024 | Blog
Publication of Vacant Positions August 30, 2024 read more
by mgb6iloilo | Aug 21, 2024 | Blog
Iloilo City — The Mines and Geosciences Bureau Regional Office VI (MGB VI) conducted a drone pilot and mapping training course for its technical personnel on August 5 to 6, 2024 in Iloilo City. The training was attended by eighteen technical staff of MGB VI coming from the geosciences division, mine management division, and the mine safety, environmental and social development division. Five students of the Negros Oriental State University (NORSU) who are undertaking their on-the-job-training with MGB VI attended the training as well. MGB VI supervising geologist Mr. Myron Gerard Y. De Guzman was the resource speaker during the training. He explained the training was designed to equip the participants with the necessary knowledge and skills to operate drones effectively and safely. Drones, also known as unnamed aerial vehicle (UAV) have become increasingly prevalent in various industries, including photography and videography, agriculture, mining, engineering, mapping, surveying, and disaster response, he said. Drones can be applied to some programs of the Mines and Geosciences Bureau such as geohazard mapping, geologic mapping, and monitoring of mines and quarry operations. The training spanned for two days, with all the lecture topics tackled held on the first day, while a hands-on training on how to operate a drone, and conduct drone survey and mapping using drone with image analysis was conducted on the field during the second day. At the end of the two-day training, most of the participants were able to produce their own orthomosaic images, digital surface models and digital terrain models based on existing drone images. (MGB VI) ... read more
by mgb6iloilo | Jul 31, 2024 | Blog
Iloilo City — The Mines and Geosciences Bureau Regional Office VI has reminded the public, urging residents in vulnerable areas to prepare for potential rain-induced landslides and flooding especially during the rainy season. When heavy rainfall affects various regions, MGB VI supervising geologist Dr. Leilanie O. Suerte emphasizes the importance of consulting geohazard maps and taking necessary precautions to ensure safety. During the online press conference of the Philippine Information Agency in Antique last July 19, 2024, MGB VI discussed about geologic hazards specifically rain-induced landslides and flooding. The press conference was a collaborative activity of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council of the province of Antique with PIA Antique in line with the observance of the National Disaster Resilience Month. Dr. Suerte gave an overview on the potential geohazards that may affect the province given specific conditions. She highlighted the critical need for local communities, local and national government agencies, and other stakeholders to remain vigilant and take proactive measures. Residents are strongly encouraged to consult geohazard maps, which provide detailed information on areas susceptible to landslides and floods. These maps are accessible through the MGB’s website, and social media pages. “The safety of our citizens is our top priority. We urge everyone, especially those in high-risk areas, to take this reminder seriously. By staying informed and prepared, we can minimize the impact of these natural hazards on our communities.” (MGB VI) Please visit MGB website and social media page to stay informed on geologic hazards. MGB also recommends the website HazardHunterPH, to check susceptibility level to rain-Induced flood and landslide when a typhoon affects an area. “HazardHunterPH is... read more
by mgb6iloilo | Jul 30, 2024 | Blog
Iloilo City – The Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) Regional Office VI (MGB VI) conducted a Management Review on July 15, 2024 to assess the performance and effectiveness of the Integrated Management System (IMS) which encompasses Quality Management (ISO 9001:2015 , Environmental Management (ISO 14001:2015), and Occupational Health and Safety Management (ISO 45001:2018) standards. Led by the Integrated Management Representative (IMR) Engr. Lucius P. Sucgang together with the Internal Lead Auditor, Auditors, Safety Officer, Pollution Control Officer (PCO), and process owners, the management review team scrutinized the Quality, Environmental, Health, and Safety (QEHS) manual and mandatory procedures of the agency to determine what needs to be updated, and the necessary actions to be taken to align with the integrated management system. The team further evaluated major areas of concern and came up with solutions and corrective actions to comply with non-conformities. They highlighted the importance of regularly monitoring the status of accomplishments, keeping track with updates on safety and health policies, processes innovations, and improvements in the compliances in conformance with the IMS. MGB VI passed its recertification audit for the ISO Integrated Management Systems early this year, February 6, 2024. The audit was conducted by an external audit and certification body, NQA Philippines Inc. The management review is a key component of MGB VI’s commitment to continuous improvement and it involved a thorough evaluation of the system’s performance over the past year, said MGB VI OIC Regional Director Cecilia L. Ochavo-Saycon. She further encouraged everyone to strictly work on the action plans they have prepared at the start of the year, in order to ensure that MGB VI... read more
by mgb6iloilo | Jul 23, 2024 | Blog
Iloilo City – The Department of Environment and Natural Resources Regional Office 6 together with its line bureaus; Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) 6 and Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) 6 is featured at the eighth episode of the “Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas” presenting the updates and accomplishments of the agency on July 18, 2024. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is the lead agency of the government responsible for the conservation, management, development, and proper use of the environment and natural resources of the country as mandated by Executive Order No. 192, series of 1987. In the eighth episode of Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas, the DENR Western Visayas together with Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) 6 kag Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) 6 joined the program as resource speakers to share their programs and services as well as major accomplishments in ensuring the equitable sharing of the benefits derived these resources for the welfare of the present and future generations of Filipinos. Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas is an initiative of the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) through the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) that aims to widen public understanding and engagement on the activities, programs, and projects of implementing agencies at the grassroots level, consistent with the mandate of the administration’s Bagong Pilipinas (BP) governance and leadership agenda.... read more
by mgb6iloilo | Jul 16, 2024 | Blog
Iloilo City – The Mines and Geosciences Bureau Regional Office No. VI was awarded a Plaque of Recognition for being the Top Performing Office (Rank #1) among all other MGB regional offices in Visayas and Mindanao with a 100% Resolution Rate in handling the Action Center/Hotline 8888 tickets for CY 2023. The awarding took place during the Capability Building Seminar-Workshop on DENR Action Center/Hotline 8888 Operations and Tickets Resolution for Visayas and Mindanao Clusters that was held recently in Cebu Parklane International Hotel, Cebu City from July 02-05, 2024. The Hotline 8888 Complaint Center was institutionalized through the Executive Order No. 6 (s. 2016) to serve as a mechanism where complaints and grievances are referred to the concerned agency for appropriate action upon receipt of the concern. This recognition entails MGB VI’s adherence in facilitating DENR Action Center/Hotline 8888 Operations to ensure responsiveness and specific action to all concerns governed by the agency, and also to embody commitment to public service. (MGB... read more
by mgb6iloilo | Jul 5, 2024 | Blog
Iloilo City – MGB VI actively participated the 2nd Quarter Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill on June 28, 2024 at 2:00 PM. The National Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED) is a quarterly exercise done to promote earthquake awareness, response and preparedness among the general public. Under the guidance of the ISO Integrated Management Systems Team of the office spearheaded by the Safety Officer Engr. Vicarthur Tango-an and Integrated Management Representative Engr. Lucius Sucgang, MGB VI personnel got ready to Duck, Cover and Hold and observed the safety protocols during an earthquake drill. MGB VI participation is in observance of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) Memorandum No. 013, series of 2024 with subject Conduct of the CY 2024 Quarterly Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill, and the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) Region 6 Memorandum No. 011, series of 2024. The nationwide activity is being facilitated by the Office of Civil Defense PH (OCD). #BidaAngHanda #NSED2024 NDRRMC Civil Defense... read more
by mgb6iloilo | Jun 25, 2024 | Blog
Iloilo City – The Mines and Geosciences Bureau Regional Office VI reminds the public anew of the possible occurrence of landslides and flooding with the onset of the rainy season. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources instructs MGB regional offices to activate their Operations Centers and assist in conducting Pre-Disaster Risk Assessments (PDRAs) in close coordination with the Office of Civil Defense in the respective regions to prepare mitigation measures for the potential impacts of La Niña. In a series of broadcast interviews on Radyo Pilipinas and lectures this month, MGB VI chief geologist and head of the Geosciences Division Mae Y. Magarzo presents the facts on the nature, causes, and risks of landslides and floods. “The geographic and geologic setting of the Philippines (part of the Pacific Ring of Fire) makes it prone to various hazards such as typhoon and rain-related geologic hazards such as landslides and floods,” Magarzo explained. The DENR, MGB embarked on a rapid geohazard mapping and assessment program from 2005 to 2010 (1:50,000 scale) and a detailed mapping from 2011 to 2014 (1:10,000 scale). When the program was completed, MGB conducted a nationwide information and education campaign introducing the results of the detailed geohazard assessment and mapping of rain-induced landslides and floods. Geohazard maps were distributed to the local government units providing data for land use planning, issuance of geohzard threat advisories and warnings, and the formulation of disaster risk reduction and management plans. “We are continuously updating our geohazard maps, and the MGB launched a web-based portal, the MGB Geohazard Portal, where anyone can access geohazard maps.” Ms. Magarzo said we must heed mitigation measures and... read more
by mgb6iloilo | Jun 20, 2024 | Blog
[Iloilo City] – The Mines and Geosciences Bureau Regional Office VI (MGB VI) conducted a stakeholders’ forum tackling mining regulations and geologic hazards on June 19, 2024 at Diversion 21 Hotel in Iloilo City. The forum was organized in line with the celebration of Environment Month to strengthen partnerships with the private sector in achieving development goals and corporate social responsibility. It was attended by accredited traders, dealers, and retailers operating in Panay and Guimaras. MGB VI OIC Regional Director Cecilia L. Ochavo-Saycon welcomed the participants and highlighted the vital role of the business sector as partners in achieving the country’s development goals and environmentally and socially responsible business practices. She encouraged their active participation in the forum to maximize the opportunity to learn more about government laws and regulations on accreditation for them to be properly guided and improve their compliance. Resource speakers from MGB VI tackled specific topics such as the mining law and its implementing rules and regulations and MGB Memorandum Circular 2018-01 or the “Guidelines in the Conduct of Apprehension, Seizure, Confiscation and Disposition of Illegally Sourced Minerals/Mineral Products and By-Products, Tools, Conveyances and Equipment Used” by Atty. R’Jay L. Pestaño. Engr. Kimberly A. Villa, chief of the Monitoring and Technical Services Section, discussed the mining tenements issued by DENR, MGB, zeroing in on the requirements, application and renewal process, and reportorial requirements. Engr. Ethywyne Paran presented the common issues and how to improve compliance of accreditation proponents. During the open forum, the participants asked for clarifications on specific concerns regarding their accreditation. A common understanding of the role of MGB and proponents in avoiding... read more
by mgb6iloilo | May 23, 2024 | Blog
[Iloilo City] – The Mines and Geosciences Bureau Regional Office VI (MGB VI) hosted the Regional and Provincial Multipartite Team (MMT) raining Workshop, held from May 15-17, 2024 in the province of Guimaras. Themed “Upscaling Skills and Proficiencies of Multipartite Monitoring Team Members towards Environmentally Responsible and Socially Acceptable Mining Practices,” the event gathered 55 participants composed of regional and provincial MMT members. Hosted at Raymen Beach Resort in Nueva Valencia, Guimaras, the event focused on upscaling the skills and expertise of multipartite monitoring team members to promote environmentally responsible and socially acceptable mining. Through a series of expert-led sessions, interactive workshops, and collaborative discussions, participants enhanced their abilities to address the complex challenges associated with sustainable mining practices. MGB VI OIC Regional Director Cecilia L. Ochavo-Saycon welcomed the participants. In her welcome message, OIC RD Saycon said, “As regulators, our job is to ensure that our clients are compliant with the different rules and regulations in the mining industry. She underscored the vital role the MMT plays as partners in nation building as a source of technical and evidence-based guidance for an industry that is serious in meeting its corporate environmental and social commitments. Though generally perceived as a critic and “fault-finder,” she encouraged the delegates to help change that perception, and one concrete step is the continuous learning and leveling-up of skills relevant to the roles and functions of the MMT. Under the mining law and regulations, the Mine Rehabilitation Fund Committee (MRFC) deputizes and operationalizes a multipartite monitoring team (MMT) as an expert body overseeing and ensuring that permit holders are conducting their projects responsibly and... read more
