Koronadal City—Over 200 young participants from across Region 12 came together on Friday, October 18, for the inaugural Soccsksargen Environment and Natural Resources (SOX ENR) Youth Summit. The event, organized by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR-12) Regional Youth Desk, in collaboration with the Department of Education (DepEd-12) and the Provincial Government of South Cotabato, aimed to elevate environmental awareness and encourage conservation efforts among the youth.
The summit featured keynote speeches and presentations from notable figures, including National Youth Commission Mindanao Representative and South Cotabato SK Provincial President Vincent Figueroa, DENR-12 Regional Executive Director Atty. Felix S. Alicer, and DepEd-12 Regional Director Carlito D. Rocafort. They emphasized the crucial role that the youth play in shaping a sustainable future and stressed the need for active participation in safeguarding natural resources.
Participants engaged in a series of discussions on environmental topics, including wildlife protection, forestry conservation, solid waste management, and the highly debated issue of responsible mining. Key resource persons from DENR-12’s legal division, the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB-12), and the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB-12) provided insights into the challenges and opportunities surrounding these critical issues.
Responsible Mining: Truth or Greenwashing?
One of the most talked-about topics during the summit was responsible mining—a subject that has stirred significant debate in South Cotabato, particularly with the province’s rich mineral deposits and ongoing controversies over mining projects.
The concept of “responsible mining” suggests that mining activities can be conducted in a way that minimizes environmental damage while providing economic benefits to local communities. Proponents argue that strict regulations, technological advancements, and community involvement can make mining an industry that balances environmental conservation with development. In theory, responsible mining offers a pathway for economic progress, especially in resource-rich areas like South Cotabato, where mining has long been viewed as a means to spur local development.
However, critics question the viability of this approach, pointing to past instances where mining operations have left lasting scars on the environment, damaged water sources, and displaced indigenous communities. They argue that the notion of responsible mining can sometimes serve as a form of “greenwashing,” masking the reality of the industry’s environmental and social impacts.
The discussion at the summit brought these contrasting perspectives to light. Atty. Mae Fretzel Deadio, one of the resource speakers, emphasized that strong legal frameworks and strict enforcement are essential for ensuring that mining companies adhere to environmental standards. At the same time, Engr. John Mikael P. Ansao from MGB-12 highlighted the role of technology and innovation in reducing the environmental footprint of mining activities.
The Youth’s Role in the Environmental Debate
While the mining issue remains complex and divisive, the youth summit underscored the importance of youth engagement in shaping the future of natural resource management in Region 12. With their energy, passion, and innovative ideas, the younger generation is seen as a key driver in pushing for more sustainable practices in industries like mining.
Environmental activists and community leaders at the summit encouraged the participants to remain critical and informed, ensuring that their voices are heard in local decision-making processes. This call to action reflects the growing awareness that achieving a balance between economic development and environmental preservation requires more than just policy changes—it demands the active involvement of all sectors of society.
As South Cotabato continues to grapple with the tension between mining interests and environmental preservation, the youth of the region will play a pivotal role in advocating for a more sustainable and just future.
