November 5, 2025 - The Department of Energy (DOE) said Monday it is strengthening the framework for small-scale coal mining (SSCM) to make it more structured, transparent and environmentally responsible.

The move aims to modernize the program, which has not been updated in nearly four decades.

The DOE said it held a public consultation on the proposed department circular to update the SSCM program. DOE Undersecretary Alessandro Sales underscored the importance of stakeholder participation in shaping a modern and sustainable SSCM policy.

“This first draft marks a new beginning for SSCM. After nearly four decades since 1987, it is time to modernize the program,” Sales said.

SSCM operations pertain to the development and production of coal resources covering an area not exceeding 10 hectares, in accordance with the terms and conditions provided under the draft circular. Total production is not to exceed 70,000 metric tons within the five-year permit term.

The public consultations for the draft circular reflect the DOE’s commitment to safeguarding the rights of indigenous peoples while promoting responsible resource development and sustainable energy production.

The activity, led by the Energy Resource Development Bureau (ERDB) and its Coal and Nuclear Minerals Division, gathered valuable inputs from stakeholders to ensure that the proposed revisions to the SSCM regulations are inclusive, streamlined and aligned with current industry and environmental standards.

Key topics discussed included the protection of Indigenous Peoples’ rights, the strengthening of environmental safeguards, the simplification of application and permitting processes and the clarification of permittees’ responsibilities, including grounds for permit cancellation or termination.

Participants were briefed on critical requirements such as proper material handling, dust and emission control systems, emergency preparedness, spill and fire prevention measures and adherence to environmental safeguards to protect both workers and nearby communities.

They were also oriented on documentation and reporting obligations, such as the submission of Compliance Checklists and sworn certifications to verify adherence to DOE standards. By integrating these new regulatory mechanisms, the DOE aims to ensure that coal-related operations are conducted safely, responsibly and with minimal environmental impact.