ITOGON, Benguet — The Department of Environment and Natural Resources–Mines and Geosciences Bureau (DENR-MGB) Cordillera has granted Interim Small-Scale Mining Contracts (ISSMCs) to three small-scale mining (SSM) associations in Itogon.

The interim contracts were awarded to qualified small-scale mining groups while they complete the requirements for the issuance of permanent Small-Scale Mining Contracts (SSMCs).

Temporary authority to conduct small-scale mining operations within the declared Minahang Bayan in Barangay Loacan, Itogon, was granted to the Antamok Loacan Northwall Miners Association (ALNMA), Shianwart Gold Trading, and the Banggawan Gold Ore Miners Association.

The awarding of the interim contracts follows the 2019 declaration of the 56-hectare Loacan Minahang Bayan, which was approved based on the application of the Loacan Itogon Pocket Miners Association (LIAPAMA). The association subsequently became the first group in the Cordillera region to secure a Small-Scale Mining Contract, enabling legal mining operations under the People's Small-Scale Mining Act.

A Minahang Bayan is a government-designated area where qualified small-scale miners may operate under strict environmental, safety, and regulatory standards. The designation aims to formalize small-scale mining, promote responsible mineral extraction, strengthen government oversight, and support the livelihoods of local miners.