The Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) of the Philippines commemorated its 126th founding anniversary on November 29, 2024, celebrating over a century of dedicated service in the conservation, management, and development of the nation’s mineral resources. This significant milestone underscores the bureau’s enduring commitment to sustainable mining practices and geoscientific advancements.
Established during the Spanish colonial period as the “Inspeccion General de Minas,” the MGB was initially responsible for overseeing the administration and disposition of mineral lands. Although this office was abolished on July 1, 1886, its functions were integrated into the General Directorate of Civil Administration. Under the Philippine Revolutionary Republic, General Emilio Aguinaldo signed a decree on November 28, 1898, creating the Departamento de Fomento, which included divisions dedicated to industry and agriculture, encompassing mining activities.
Following the American occupation, the Mining Bureau was established on March 10, 1900, to manage mining grants and claims. In 1905, it merged with the Bureau of Government Laboratories to form the Division of Geology and Mines under the Bureau of Science. Subsequent reorganizations led to the creation of the Division of Mineral Resources in 1933 and its renaming to the Division of Mines in 1934. The Bureau of Mines was formally established in 1936 under Commonwealth Act No. 136. During World War II, the bureau underwent several transformations, eventually being restored in 1945 under the Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources. In 1978, it was renamed the Bureau of Mines and Geosciences, reflecting an expanded mandate. Finally, in June 1987, the MGB was reconstituted under Executive Order No. 192, solidifying its role within the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).
As the primary government agency under the DENR, the MGB is tasked with the conservation, management, development, and proper utilization of the country’s mineral resources, including those in reservations and public lands. Its responsibilities encompass the administration and disposition of mineral lands, conducting geological, mining, metallurgical, and chemical research, as well as geological and mineral exploration surveys. The bureau also plays a pivotal role in implementing the Philippine Mining Act of 1995, which emphasizes sustainable development principles in the mining sector.
In recent years, the MGB has intensified its efforts in geohazard assessments, identifying areas susceptible to natural disasters such as landslides and floods. These assessments are crucial for disaster preparedness and land-use planning, aiming to mitigate the impacts of natural hazards on communities. Additionally, the bureau has been proactive in supporting small-scale mining operations by organizing training workshops focused on safety and health. These initiatives promote responsible mining practices and ensure the welfare of mining communities, aligning with MGB’s commitment to sustainable development.
