Philippines lifts nine-year ban on new mines to boost revenues

A view of nickel ore stockpiles at DMCI Mining Corporation's mine in Sta Cruz Zambales in northern Philippines February 7, 2017. - Reuters

* Philippines is one of world's top nickel, copper, gold producers * Government seeks to boost state revenues with new mines

MANILA, April 18 (Reuters): Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has lifted a moratorium on new mineral agreements imposed in 2012, reopening the door to investments in a move that will boost state coffers but has dismayed environmental activists.