MGB recommends lifting of quarrying suspension around Mayon Volcano

THE MINES and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) has recommended to lift the suspension order on 91 quarry operators around Mayon Volcano in Albay to support efforts in restoring the capacity of river channels in the area.

In a statement on Thursday, MGB Director Wilfredo G. Moncano said 91 of the 106 quarry operators were found to be compliant with permit regulations after a probe was conducted by the task force created by Environment Secretary Roy A. Cimatu.

Fifteen operators with violations will remain banned and subject to further review and possible sanctions.

Mr. Cimatu suspended quarrying activities after lahar flow during Typhoon Goni, locally named Rolly, killed residents and buried houses around the volcano.

“An increased rate of quarrying is needed to empty and restore the capacity of the river channels, so that when rain comes with eroded material from the slopes of Mayon Volcano, the restored river channel can serve as the pathway to accommodate and remobilize the eroded material,” Mr. Moncano said. — Revin Mikhael D. Ochave