Australia’s OceanaGold intends to take legal action if a proposed move in the Philippines to suspend or close a series of mines in the country, including its Didipio operation, for environmental reasons goes ahead.

Philippines’ environment and natural resources secretary Regina Lopez…ordered the suspension of five mines, such as the Didipio gold mine, and the closure of 23 mines, including several nickel operations…

OceanaGold chief executive officer Mick Wilkes said the decision was unjustified nor had any basis in law.

“We have not received any show cause notice from the DENR nor have we received a suspension order. Should we ultimately receive a suspension order as suggested today (February 2) we have very strong legal grounds to have it overturned,” Wilkes said…