The DENR Administrative Order No. 2026-08 establishes guidelines for Interim Small-Scale Mining Contracts (Interim SSMCs) to formalize small-scale mining, promote equitable mineral resource use, support local livelihoods, and strengthen domestic gold reserves while ensuring compliance with environmental, health, safety, and social standards under existing laws. It sets requirements for applicants, and operation within a declared Minahang Bayan, and grants a non-renewable two-year mining right subject to compliance with RA 7076; it also requires a Mineral Processing License for processing outside designated zones, bans mercury use, prohibits employment of minors, mandates sale of gold to the Central Bank of Philippines, and enforces environmental and social funds and safeguards. Further provisions are provided on implementation, monitoring and compliance.