Duterte stops mining on Tawi-Tawi island

Video courtesy of PTV

President Rodrigo Duterte has suspended all mining operations on an island in the country's southernmost province, an official said on Tuesday.

Duterte is "very much concerned" about reports that the Tumbagan Island in Languyan, Tawi-Tawi “has been completely devastated as a result of mining operations,” said Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles

“The island at this point has been mined out. And while rehabilitation efforts are underway, the President is issuing a directive to stop any and all mining operation in Tumbagan island, and to step up the rehabilitation of the area by planting more trees, and other efforts,” he told reporters in an online briefing.

“More action will be considered as more light is shed regarding the state of the island and the conduct of mining operations in the area,” the official added.
 
Watch part of the briefing here.