Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo warned all quarry permit holders in the province that he will not hesitate to cancel permits if they are caught conducting illegal operations in any part of the province.

Degamo issued his warning at the orientation on quarry operation attended by small and large scale quarry operators recently, at the Negros Oriental Convention Center.

The governor said he had been receiving information and complaints about illegal quarry operations in the major rivers and quarry areas in Negros Oriental. He admitted being frustrated that some of the illegal quarry operations are done by legal quarry permit holders.

He said the law on quarry regulations clearly states that the area approved in the permit should strictly be followed. Some are also using recycled delivery receipts, which is also another violation, he said.

Degamo challenged the Quarry Operators Association in the province to police their own ranks because it will affect the reputation of their group. In fact, he said, he would welcome it if they can report illegal quarry operation engaged in by their members, he added.

The governor said it is the responsibility of the province to monitor all quarry operations in order not to exhaust its natural resources.*MA