Illegal mining shafts in Camarines Norte dismantled

PARACALE, Camarines Norte - The Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) on Friday dismantled illegal mining shafts in Sitio Bulaay, Barangay Palanas in Paracale, Camarines Norte.

Sitio Bulaay was declared by MGB-Bicol in January 2014 as a "danger zone" for small-scale mining activities since it is located near the shoreline and is vulnerable to storm surges.

Ten people have died in the illegal mining areas since 2012, MGB-Bicol spokesperson Kristine Baldeo said.

Around 30 miners have already been arrested by police authorities in the past six months, he said.

Some financiers were present during the dismantling, including Serafin Dasco, who asked authorities to spare concrete tunnels from the demolition, since they are used to protect the area from strong waves.

Residents displaced by the demolition appealed to the government for assistance and alternative livelihood.