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Law protects beaches from quarry
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Posted on Feb 26 1999
Gov. Pedro P. Tenorio has signed a bill into law that strictly prohibits sand mining in order to preserve the beaches in the commonwealth.
However, the measure allows individuals, corporations and government agencies or departments to mine sand provided that they obtain permits from the Department of Public Works.
An application fee not exceeding $100 will be charged to companies seeking permit to mine sand for commercial purposes and $5.00 to persons needing it for self-help improvement projects. An additional fee not more than $2.00 per cubic yard may be charged by the department for commercial purposes.
Public Law 11-62 says sand mining should be allowed only in authorized areas in order to avoid the destruction of coastal zones.
Violators are facing misdemeanor offense and a fine not more than $2,000 or imprisonment not more than six months.
However, the governor expressed concern that the fee imposed for sand mining is very minimal as he suggested to framers of rules and regulations that will govern the prohibition of sand mining to give the agency flexibility to raise fees.
“There are suggestions that merit reviewing for possible amendment to this Act. The fee of $2.00 per cubic yard seems quite low for commercial purposes. Perhaps it would be more efficient to give the Public Works flexibility to change fees through regulations,” Tenorio said.
Revenues collected from permits and other fees shall be deposited into a special account of the general fund with separate accounts established for each senatorial district for money to be collected in those areas and the mayor of the district.
Monies generated will be used to finance improvement of villages, parks and beach beautification projects, as well as assist students in post secondary and vocational education.
