In a recent interview, Environment Secretary Antonia Loyzaga said now is the high time for big mining firms to help small-scale miners meet their social development targets by setting aside a portion of their social development fund for the purpose.
Loyzaga described the “big brother-small brother” strategy as one that would include capacitating small miners and enhancing the resilience of mining communities. Under the DENR Administrative Order No. 2010-21 or the Revised Implementing Rules and Regulations of Republic Act 7942, otherwise known as the Philippine Mining Act of 1995, mining contractors and permit holders are required to have an SDMP, which aims for the sustained improvement in the living standards of host and neighboring communities.