Loading ...Philippine lawmakers have confirmed former armed forces chief Roy Cimatu as the country’s environment and natural resources minister despite mounting pressure from pro-mining groups hurt by policies he has vowed to keep in place.
Cimatu, who replaced ousted ecologist Regina Lopez in May, has said he would review evidence brought forward by mining companies and communities before deciding whether to keep, modify, or reverse his predecessor’s measures.
Lopez’ orders included the suspension or closure of more than half the mines in the Philippines, the world’s top nickel ore supplier, as well as a controversial ban on open pit mining.
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