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TO :	The Minister of Natural Resources The Director, Bureau of Mines and Geo-Sciences

In line with the government's basic policy not only to generate employment but foreign exchange revenue as well, and in order to achieve and attain one of the significant objectives of P.D. No. 463, otherwise known as the "Mineral Resources Decree of 1974" on the continuity of mining operations through a wise and economical exploitation, development and utilization of the country's natural resources, you are hereby directed to take steps within your power to hasten the development of the mining properties of Mountain Mines, Inc. and Balatoc-Lubuagan Mines, Inc., all located in the municipality of Pasil, province of Kalinga-Apayao and to put the same into commercial production immediately.

To attain this objective, the subject mining properties should be developed and operated notwithstanding the pendency of the two cases on appeal with the Supreme Court (G.R. No. L-34267 and L-34268) against Biak-na-Bato Mining Company, which arrangement is allowed under the existing mining regulations.

It is likewise directed that Batong-Buhay Gold Mines, Inc. in view of its technical and financial capabilities and the proximity of its mining claims presently being operated with those of Mountain Mines and Balatoc-Lubuagan, shall undertake the operation of the latter's mining property without prejudice to the outcome of the aforesaid cases; provided, however, that two per cent (2%) of the gross sales of minerals extracted and disposed of from the mineral area in conflict, shall be deposited in escrow, which amount shall be released to the party who shall finally be adjudged the rightful owner of the mining claims involved.

DONE in the City of Manila, this 18th day of February, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen Hundred and Eighty-Three.

SOURCE: CD ASIA