The Chamber of Mines of the Philippines (COMP) stated on Tuesday that tree-cutting activities conducted by Berong Nickel Corp. in Palawan were compliant with environmental regulations. In a statement, COMP Chairman Michael Toledo noted that the company adhered to the requirement of planting 100 seedlings for every naturally growing tree removed as part of authorized mining operations. This assurance came amid scrutiny over the company's environmental practices in the province.
The association's statement, reported by BusinessWorld , emphasized that Berong Nickel has followed the mandated reforestation guidelines. Toledo said the company's actions were in line with the standards set by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, which requires mining firms to compensate for tree removal through extensive planting efforts. The COMP chairman added that the industry supports responsible mining practices that prioritize ecological balance.
The clarification from COMP follows public concerns over deforestation linked to mining operations in Palawan, a province known for its biodiversity. Berong Nickel, a subsidiary of Nickel Asia Corp., operates a nickel laterite mine in the area. The company has previously faced criticism from environmental groups, but the mining association's statement aims to reaffirm compliance with legal requirements. The issue highlights the ongoing tension between resource extraction and conservation efforts in the Philippines.