essay about mining in sibuyan

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A Peril in Paradise: The Threat and Consequences of Mining in Sibuyan Island, Philippines

The Philippines is renowned as one of the world’s hottest biodiversity hotspots . This indicates that the country is home to an exceptional number of endemic plants and wildlife species, which faces serious threats and exploitation. Among the country’s 7,641 islands, one island has recently captured attention due to the discovery of a long-hidden battle – Sibuyan Island.

Sibuyan Island is a stunning paradise and home to a significant portion of Philippine endemism. It boasts crystal-clear waters, dense rainforests, breathtaking waterfalls, and magnificent mountains teeming with life. Unfortunately, this paradise’s ecosystem is now under the threat of alleged illegal mining operations. Larger mining corporations, supported by power and money are overshadowing the local community and silencing the underrepresented minority. 

This ongoing battle for Sibuyan Island has already resulted in tragedy. In 2007, a former environmentalist from the World Wildlife Fund for Nature-Philippines and a town councilor in Sibuyan, Armin Marin, was shot dead by heavily armed guards after leading a rally against a mining attempt that could destroy Sibuyan’s precious ecosystem. Recently this year, a clash between the authorities and a human barricade attempting to stop another mining operation has left two locals injured, one town councilor arrested, and countless others affected. There are also alleged cases of public teachers on the island being held with their rights to participate in any anti-mining activities, and students being forced to issue public apologies for opposing mining on the island.

Today, as the fight against mining continues, these corporations promise job security, wealth, and development through unsustainable actions. But beneath these enticing promises lies a critical question: What will be the true cost of these actions? What will be the price paid by the environment and the community? And when will people fully grasp the importance of balancing development and environmental preservation?

This article presents an in-depth case study that delves into the environmental and social conditions of Sibuyan Island amidst alleged illegal mining activities. The study highlights the imminent environmental risks, sheds light on marginalized perspectives, and emphasizes the urgent necessity for proactive measures to protect Sibuyan’s delicate ecosystems.

Table of Contents

Geography and biodiversity, natural resources and minerals, local communities and indigenous people, the beginning of mining in sibuyan, the conflict between the apmc and local communities.

• Overpowering the MinoritiesPromising

Environmental State of Sibuyan in the Early Years

Environmental state of sibuyan after mining exploration, the marinduque mining disaster, potential relevance of marinduque mining disaster to sibuyan mining situation, early efforts of sibuyanons, small victories of sibuyanons, educational outreach: raising awareness, promote environmental education and awareness, promote sustainable development alternatives, advocate for stronger environmental policies, sibuyan island.

Sibuyan Island is located in Romblon province, Philippines. It covers an area of 445 square kilometers and is often referred to as the “Galapagos of Asia” due to its unique blend of natural features. Towering above the island’s lush greenery is the infamous Mount Guiting-Guiting , a magnificent peak that reaches a height of 2,058 meters, attracting hikers and mountaineers from around the world. Sibuyan Island is home to dense virgin forests that are filled with endemic plants and animals, including the rare and endangered Philippine hanging parrot (Loriculus philippensis bournsi) and the endemic Sibuyan pitcher plant (Nepenthes sibuyanensis). 

There are about 44 waterfalls on the island, connected by clear rivers and streams that flow through its beautiful valleys, including the well-known Cantingas River , considered one of the cleanest rivers in the world. These water bodies supply enough fresh water to the local communities and farm irrigations. Beneath the surface, Sibuyan Island’s marine ecosystem thrives with vibrant coral reefs and a wide range of marine life, making it a paradise for snorkelers and divers, and a food basket for local communities.  The table below shows the summary of protected areas and biodiversity of Sibuyan Island. 

Sibuyan Island is well-known for its mineral-rich soil, which holds significant deposits of valuable resources such as nickel, chromite, and copper. These minerals have attracted entrepreneurs and mining corporations due to the potential for profitable ventures. The island also possesses abundant non-metallic minerals, including limestone and silica, essential for various industrial applications.

Moreover, according to some locals, certain island regions are believed to hold gold, emerald, and marble deposits. These precious minerals further contribute to the island’s potential economic value.

Sibuyan Island has only approximately 62,000 people residing in three municipalities, Cajidiocan, Magdiwang, and San Fernando . Among its inhabitants are the Sibuyan Mangyan Tagabukid (SMT) indigenous, whose rich cultural heritage is deeply connected with the island’s natural environment. 

The community’s way of life on Sibuyan Island revolves around their harmonious relationship with nature. They deeply respect the land, forests, and rivers, which they consider sacred. Traditional farming practices, such as sustainable swidden or slash-and-burn agriculture, help the land regenerate over time. Additionally, crafting, such as basket weaving and wood carving, was a significant source of income for the community.

Fishing is another vital aspect of the community’s livelihood due to the island’s abundant marine resources. Fishing methods employed by the locals are often traditional and low-impact, ensuring the preservation of the marine ecosystem and the sustainability of their catch. Moreover, the SMTs preserve their cultural traditions, including music, dance, and craftsmanship. These valuable practices are passed down through generations, reminding them of their unique identity and deep connection to the island’s natural world.

Timeline of Mining on Sibuyan Island

According to Mr. Alfreo Pascual, one of the founders of the environmental and anti-mining organization Bantay Kalikasan ng Sibuyan (Nature Guardians of Sibuyan), the illegal mining activity in Sibuyan Island traces its roots back to the 1980s when mining companies first set their sights on its mineral-rich land. The discovery of valuable minerals, particularly gold, prompted initial interest in the island’s potential. However, the enthusiasm was short-lived as the quality of the gold found needed to meet the desired market standards, and the quantity fell below the required threshold of at least 500 metric tons per day for a minimum of 10 years of mining to be considered profitable.

Despite this setback, another mining company conducted a comprehensive exploration to assess the mineral deposits on the island. Their findings revealed that Sibuyan Island has a significant quantity of high-grade nickel, making it a new prime target for mining operations. This discovery catalyzed renewed interest in mining activities on the island.

By the year 2000, various mining companies began applying to the government for Mineral Production Sharing Agreement (MPSA). This agreement allows a private mining contractor to mine an area with no title on the contract area.

In 2009, the former environmental secretary of the Philippines, Lito Atienza, awarded the MPSA to ALTAI Philippines Mining Corporation (APMC). However, it is essential to note that at this stage, the company received only a permit for the exploration, extraction, and transportation of nickel ore samples for feasibility studies . Extracting and transporting large quantities of nickel ore for business transactions is subject to other application and evaluation processes, such as the Declaration of Mining Project Feasibility (DMPF) and Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC). This declaration and certificate will prove that the mining project is both technically and financially viable, as well as socially and environmentally compliant.

The issuance of an exploration permit marked a critical juncture in the timeline of illegal mining on Sibuyan Island. As companies sought to capitalize on the island’s mineral wealth, the stage was set for further developments with significant implications for its environment and inhabitants. Today, there are multiple mining claims in Sibuyan from different mining companies covering almost half of the island, including some of its protected areas. 

In 2011, APMC’s MPSA was suspended by the Mines and Geosciences Bureau of the Philippines (MGB) through a cease and desist order. This is due to contamination complaints and alteration of inland water bodies. However, after ten years, the suspension was lifted in September 2021, allowing APMC to resume mining activities. According to local anti-mining leaders, APMC had already engaged in transactions with a nickel ore buyer from Hong Kong during this period despite needing more complete certifications and permits for conducting mining operations. During this time, the local government of Sibuyan Island has remained silent on these ongoing activities, providing APMC with an advantage to carry out alleged illegal mining operations.

The continuation of mining activities has caused concern among many residents opposed to mining on their island. Because of this, various anti-mining organizations have emerged, intending to stop further mining activities conducted by APMC. In February 2023, the anti-mining organizations organized a rally to protest against APMC, citing deforestation and the construction of a causeway that could potentially disrupt the natural habitat of marine species.Two days after the rally, a massive vessel docked on the coast of Sibuyan Island prepared to load and transport 50,000 metric tons of extracted nickel ore to Hong Kong with an estimated value of around 2 million USD. This sparked a physical confrontation between the residents and APMC. The residents constructed a human barricade to prevent the trucks carrying nickel ore from leaving the island. It is reported that during this incident, two residents were hurt. 

As news of the incident spread through the national media, calls were made to investigate the situation, temporarily suspending mining activities. In an official report released by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) on February 6, 2023, they issued a Joint Order to APMC regarding the illegal construction of the causeway and other related activities.

In a response statement released by APMC, the company said they had secured all the necessary permits and licenses to conduct mining operations on the island, denying all the allegations on their business legalities. APMC also claimed that the 50,000 metric tons of nickel ore will be transported overseas only for bulk testing . 

Since then, residents and indigenous people, spearheaded by different anti-mining organizations, have consistently organized monthly rallies to raise awareness about the ongoing risk of exploitation from mining companies on their island. Aside from protests, the environmental organization Upholding Life and Nature (ULAN) has filed further legal actions against APMC to stop mining on Sibuyan Island. 

Overpowering the Minorities

In an attempt to reclaim mining authority, there have been reports of alleged activities from the mining company that overpower the anti-mining residents of Sibuyan through various means.

Promising Job Security and Community Development Initiatives

According to some locals, the continuation of mining activities holds the promise of increased job stability through the mining company’s commitment to hiring island residents for various roles. Additionally, the company has pledged to enhance the quality of life for Sibuyanons by constructing vital facilities that will generate additional employment and livelihood opportunities. These facilities include hospitals, bee farms, and fisheries, which are expected to foster economic growth and prosperity within the community.

While these initiatives may potentially have a positive impact on residents, it remains unclear for Sibuyanons whether they will be sufficient to outweigh the environmental damage caused by the mining activities.

Silencing the Oppositions

As anti-mining organizations strive to put an end to mining activities in Sibuyan through community outreach and rallies, there have been allegations of attempts to silence individuals involved in the movement, potentially violating their human rights if proven true. 

According to a statement from the Commission on Human Rights , there are reports of public teachers in Sibuyan being restricted from participating in anti-mining activities, including attending rallies and expressing anti-mining views on social media. Additionally, there are accounts of students being forced to issue public apologies for voicing opposition to mining on the island.

Community Relations

Since the mining operations stopped, APMC has been organizing various community relations programs in different towns of Sibuyan. These programs include basketball tournaments, relief operations, tree planting, Zumba activities, and educational meetings.

While the company may claim good intentions behind these programs, many Sibuyanons perceive them as attempts to persuade the residents. Some believe that these activities are intended to divert their attention from the anti-mining campaign.

The Environmental Impact of Mining on Sibuyan Island

Considering the island’s pristine condition and abundant biodiversity, the environmental impact of mining on Sibuyan Island is expected to be highly significant and detrimental. This section explores the past, present, and potential future state of the environment in Sibuyan if mining activities persist.

In the early years, Sibuyan Island is recognized as one of the most pristine islands in the Philippines. Its forest area is considered one of the densest forests ever recorded globally, with an estimated 2,180 trees per hectare. The island’s lush forests and untouched mountains have provided a sanctuary for various wildlife species. Moreover, it is known for producing some of the purest freshwater in the world, sourced from its two healthy watersheds, Cantingas and Palangcalan . These watersheds play a crucial role in sustaining the livelihoods of most of the island’s population, residing in the San Fernando , Cajidiocan , and Magdiwang municipalities. The local communities heavily rely on these watersheds for their drinking water, farm irrigation, and eco-tourism.

According to some locals, back in the 1960s, the water in Sibuyan was so clean that they could drink directly from the streams and rivers. Preserving this pristine water quality has been a goal for Sibuyanons for many decades. The increasing population and unregulated activities, such as small-scale mining, illegal logging, illegal charcoal making, and conversion of land for agriculture, have posed threats to the habitats of Sibuyan’s wildlife species and the water quality of both watersheds.

Fortunately, the declaration of Mount Guiting-Guiting as a protected area in 1996 was a significant milestone in the island’s conservation efforts. Over the years, this helped the island slow the potential environmental threats and preserve its pristine state. 

After APMC conducted its recent mining exploration activities, the once pristine environment of the island has suffered significant impacts. 

1. To extract 50,000 metric tons of nickel ore, APMC cleared lush vegetation from the mining site, leading to the large-scale cutting of trees without the required permit. This illegal activity has raised serious concerns about its ecological consequences in the area, including: 

• Loss of wildlife habitat
• Soil erosions and landslides
• Loss of indigenous flora and fauna

2. To transport the extracted nickel ore to the mining vessel, APMC constructed a causeway on the shores of San Fernando without obtaining the necessary permits. Environmental activists fear the construction could damage marine life, particularly seagrass, and coral reefs in the coastal area where the causeway was built.

In response to these concerns and appeals, the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB), in collaboration with Coastal Resources and Ecotourism Research, Development and Extension Center (CRERDEC), investigated the alleged damage of seagrass and coral reefs in the area where the causeway was built. 

According to the investigation, the causeway development did not directly affect or bury any coral reef due to its proximity to the river mouth, where corals do not thrive. However, the causeway construction can still significantly impact the coastal area.  The analysis suggests that the causeway can alter the flow of water and sediments, affecting the speed and direction of water currents. It may also disrupt the natural patterns of longshore drift, which is the movement of sediments along the coastline, potentially causing changes in the shape and form of the beaches. These effects could lead to more significant issues, such as:

• Coastal erosion
• Instability of coastline
• Coastal flooding
• Extreme tidal inundations.

Given these potential adverse environmental impacts, the investigation highlights the importance of thorough evaluation before building a causeway. Such an assessment should involve all stakeholders to ensure project implementation considers the ecological and natural resources protection, social benefits, and economic gains. 

Although allowing mining is expected to create more job opportunities for Sibuyanons, there are valid concerns among residents and indigenous communities regarding the current damages and threats resulting from mining exploration activities, according to Engr. Jerome Gacu, a local youth environmental activist and member of the Alliance of Students Against Mining (ASAM), they are concerned that if the current impacts are already substantial, the potential consequences could be far worse if mining persists in the future. Nevertheless, they also worry that due to the pressing need for stable, long-term employment among residents, they might eventually accept mining in the future despite the risk.

Mrs. Veronica Batan, one of the prominent leaders of the environmental and anti-mining organization “ Bantay Kalikasan ng Sibuyan ” (Nature Guardians of Sibuyan), points out that any promised benefits of mining would be meaningless if the island’s environment and natural resources suffer damage and depletion, exposing the communities to potential health and calamity risks.

Future Environmental State of Sibuyan if Mining Continues

During our observations in the island communities, one significant issue that stood out was the need for education and awareness about the true environmental impact of mining and the potential health and calamity risks associated with it. Mr. Alfreo Pascual pointed out that misinformation is one of the biggest problems in Sibuyan. The spreading of rumors and opinions about the pros and cons of mining without a factual basis has led to confusion within the community.

To gain a better understanding, Mr. Alfreo Pascual and his colleagues consulted Dr. Edward Monjardin, a professor specializing in environmental and climate calamity risks. He explained that the effects of mining on an island like Sibuyan could go far beyond biodiversity loss and common calamities like soil erosion, landslides, and flash floods if the mining continues. According to Dr. Monjardin, the situation and the potential future environmental state of Sibuyan are comparable to his recent research on a neighboring island called Marinduque, which has faced severe environmental consequences due to mining.

The environmental disaster in Marinduque due to mining started from 1975 to 1991. During this period, the mining company operating on the island called Marcopper Mining Corporation disposed of approximately 200 million tons of mine tailings, a highly toxic mining waste, into Calancan Bay. This was done by constructing a tunnel that connected the mining site at Mt. Tapian to the Boac River, which then flows directly to the bay. This activity has caused an environmental disaster with immediate adverse effects, including:

• Contamination of Boac River with toxic mine tailings, resulting in the death of numerous fish species.
• Around 80 square kilometers at the bottom of Calancan Bay is covered by poisonous mine tailings, effectively burying all marine life forms beneath.
• Significant impact on the livelihood of fishermen in the area, as they heavily relied on Boac River and Calancan Bay for their catch.

After the natural resources at Mt. Tapian were depleted, Marcopper established another mining site nearby called San Antonio. The tunnel that connected Mt. Tapian to Boac River was sealed and repurposed as the mine tailing pit for the San Antonio site. However, to accommodate more mine tailings, Marcopper built a tailing dam in the Mogpog River in 1992. The construction of the tailing dam has caused further catastrophes for the community, including:

• Contamination of the Mogpog River with toxic mine tailings resulted in the death of numerous fish species.
• Accumulation of silt in river beds, generating floods in nearby communities.
• Flood waters carrying mud and toxic river water reach the town, causing damage to houses and rice fields and leading to the loss of livestock.

In 1996, the Mt. Tapian pit containing 23 million metric tons of toxic mine tailings leaked, releasing up to 10 cubic meters of toxic water per second. This toxic water overflowed to different villages situated near the Boac River. The effect of this incident is one of the most disastrous events in the mining history of the Philippines.

• Flash floods buried nearby villages under 6 feet of toxic water.
• Toxic flood water destroyed agricultural fields and food sources on the island.
• The community’s primary source of drinking water became contaminated by toxic flood water.
• The government declared Boac River biologically dead due to the toxic levels that killed fish and other marine species.
• Months later, the Department of Health found nine residents with zinc levels in their blood exceeding safe limits by over 200%.
• River water samples showed toxic contamination levels 1,300% higher than the human tolerable level.
• Residents suffered from skin irritations and respiratory infections due to the toxic water and vapor.

Over the last three decades, the people of Marinduque have faced the consequences of mining activities. Until today, the Mt. Tapian pit remains filled with highly toxic water, which overflows into rivers and communities during heavy rainfall, causing ongoing suffering for the residents. There has been a noticeable increase in residents requiring amputations due to intoxication and infected wounds, and abnormalities in newborn babies in various communities on the island. Researchers have been closely monitoring and studying these health issues to understand their correlation with the toxicity levels on the island.

While mining in Sibuyan is currently far from causing the same environmental impact as in Marinduque, many environmentalists and anti-mining leaders believe it can reach a similar level of devastation. 

The granted Mineral Production Sharing Agreement (MPSA) to ALTAI covers around 1,580 hectares of mining area on a mountain slope above and near watersheds, coastal areas, communities, irrigation systems, and rice fields. According to Mr. Alfreo Pascual, due to the mining area’s slope and geographical position, the mining activity may pose a significant risk of damaging and contaminating these areas below the mining site, particularly once they release mine tailings or heavy rainfall occurs. 

Community Efforts Against Mining in Sibuyan

Many Sibuyanons oppose mining on the island. Since the early 2000s, they have put forth tremendous efforts and sacrifices in their fight against mining. Numerous anti-mining organizations were formed, and rallies and legal actions were held. Some individuals even risked their lives to protect the environment.

In October 2007, Armin Marin, a former environmentalist from the World Wildlife Fund for Nature-Philippines and a town councilor in Sibuyan, was tragically shot dead after leading a rally against a mining operation attempted by Sibuyan Nickel Properties Development Corp . This incident served as a wake-up call for Sibuyanons, motivating them to take further action against those trying to exploit their island.

Since the nickel ore transportation attempt by APMC in February, the residents of Sibuyan have set up an outpost in front of the mining site, where the human barricade occurred. This outpost is constantly monitoring the mining site daily to prevent further illegal activities from happening again.

Today, community efforts against mining on the island are still ongoing. The success of the human barricade in February, which exposed illegal mining operations and led to the government stopping the mining activities, has been followed by more victories for the anti-mining residents of Sibuyan. More residents are now displaying “No to Mining” banners in front of their homes, and regular community outreach and rallies are taking place on the island. According to the anti-mining leaders, these actions are crucial to maintain the willingness of Sibuyanons to protect their island’s pristine environment and reputation.

A few weeks ago, anti-mining organizations in Sibuyan received another good news. The “Writ of Kalikasan” (Writ of Nature), which Sibuyanons requested, has been issued by the Supreme Court against the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Mines and Geosciences Bureau, and APMC. The Writ of Kalikasan is a legal remedy for any individual or organization whose constitutional right to a balanced and healthy environment has been threatened or violated by an unlawful act of any public or private entity. 

The issuance of the Writ of Kalikasan by the Supreme Court is an essential step for Sibuyanons on their way toward protecting Sibuyan Island against any form of environmental exploitation. 

During our stay on the island, we witnessed another educational rally at the town hall of San Fernando municipality. The rally was organized by various environmental and anti-mining organizations, led by Bantay Kalikasan ng Sibuyan (Nature Guardians of Sibuyan).

The purpose of the educational rally is to raise awareness among more Sibuyanons about the actual environmental impact and calamity risks caused by mining, aiming to address the issue of misinformation within the community. Dr. Edward Monjardin, one of the keynote guest speakers at the event, highlights the potential calamity and health risks of mining in Sibuyan by explaining the situation’s relevance to the Marinduque mining disaster. 

Dr. Monjardin also emphasizes the significance of maintaining a balance between development and the environment. Neither one should outweigh the other for communities to truly prosper. During his seminar, he informed the residents and indigenous people that excessive development could harm the environment and lead to calamities. At the same time, too much focus on environmental protection can hinder economic growth and progress for the community. However, he explained that there is a fine line between these two factors, and sustainable development is the key to benefiting the community.

Mrs. Veronica Batan from Bantay Kalikasan ng Sibuyan highlights the immense importance and beauty of Sibuyan’s environmental state and natural landscapes. These areas hold significant potential for eco-tourism rather than unsustainable development like mining. She also expressed her gratitude for the never-ending support and hard work of her colleagues, other environmental organizations, and the approximately 1,000 attendees of the educational event.

Mr. Alfreo Pascual led the question and answer portion for the attendees during the event. He reiterates the importance of continuing the fight for the environment, acknowledging that while they have achieved some small victories, the potential threat of mining in Sibuyan remains.

Additionally, environmentalist and human rights activist Mr. Rodney Galicha shares the latest news on the progress of their fight against mining on the island. He aims to keep the people informed about the current status of their movement, ensuring that the community stays updated on their efforts to protect their island’s natural heritage.

Furthermore, the event calls on the local government of Sibuyan to take a more proactive role in supporting the Sibuyanons’ efforts to protect the island’s environment.

Protecting The Future of Sibuyan Island: What We Can Do?

As the fight against mining continues, the fate of Sibuyan Island is still uncertain. The key to securing its future lies in striking a delicate balance between development and environmental protection. However, this task cannot be accomplished alone. It requires collaborative efforts and urgent actions from all stakeholders to ensure the protection of Sibuyan Island and the well-being of its people. Here are some strategies Sibuyanons can adopt to achieve this goal:

Education and awareness are vital tools in tackling one of the significant challenges faced by Sibuyanons today against mining. By providing the community with information about the importance of the environment and the real impacts of mining, they can effectively counter misinformation, make informed decisions, and work together to create a shared vision for the island’s future.

Supporting environmental education programs and outreach initiatives can empower local residents to actively engage in preserving their island. Through knowledge and understanding, the community can take meaningful steps towards sustainable practices and protect the natural beauty of Sibuyan for generations to come.

While mining may offer economic gains, it is important to understand that such gains could be meaningless if the island’s environment and natural resources suffer irreversible damage. To secure a greener and safer future for Sibuyan, people must explore sustainable alternatives that can provide the same economic growth and progress. Here are two key alternatives to consider:

1. Promoting Eco-Tourism : Sibuyan Island is filled with amazing landscapes and underwater havens that tourists around the world are willing to see and experience. Leveraging these natural wonders can be a big opportunity for eco-tourism.

• Eco-tourism initiatives can be an ideal alternative that fosters both economic growth and environmental protection.
• Eco-tourism can create job opportunities and generate income for the local economy while also protecting the island’s ecological integrity, ensuring its natural beauty remains for future generations.

2. Expanding Market Opportunities for Sibuyan Seafood Products : Sibuyan Island is abundant with different marine species, making it a food basket and one of the main sources of income for the locals. Increasing market opportunities for seafood products can offer a promising chance to generate more jobs and boost the local economy.

• Improving and expanding marine protected areas on the island can significantly increase fish biomass and benefit both the marine ecosystem and local fishermen. More marine protected areas mean more fish and more fish means more catch for the fishermen.
• Opening direct access to national and international seafood markets can result in increased sales and an overall enhancement of the island’s economic status.

To protect Sibuyan Island, the people need strong environmental policies in place. Both local and national governments must take responsibility for preserving their natural resources and the ecological balance of Sibuyan Island. Citizens can also make a difference by supporting stricter regulations on mining and advocating for policies that promote sustainable development and conservation.

Effective implementation of these policies requires collaborative efforts of all stakeholders, including government agencies, Non-Government Organizations (NGOs), local communities, and private businesses. Working together, they can develop a well-rounded strategy to tackle the island’s specific environmental challenges while ensuring its long-term sustainability.

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Nickel mine threatens Philippines biodiversity hotspot on Sibuyan Island (analysis)

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• The pursuit of cleaner sources of energy could lead to the destruction of a biodiversity hotspot of global significance — the ‘Galapagos of Asia’ — a new analysis argues.
• Communities on Sibuyan Island have opposed mining for over 50 years but need decisive action from the government to safeguard their forests and rivers via a permanent mining ban.
• Demand for nickel and other ‘energy transition metals’ is set to increase, requiring long-term planning and rigorous, independent and participatory assessment of environmental & social impacts.
• This post is an analysis. The views expressed are those of the author, not necessarily of Mongabay.

A nickel mining concession that overlaps a protected area threatens the unique biodiversity of Sibuyan, a remote island at the center of the Philippine archipelago renowned for its natural beauty and endemic flora and fauna. This poses a litmus test of the government’s commitment to safeguard the outstanding biodiversity of the Philippines and the communities that depend on it.

No environmental compliance certificate has been issued for full mining operations, but Altai Philippines Mining Corporation (APMC) was initially authorized to mine 50,000 tons of laterite under an exploratory permit. Serious breaches of environmental regulations, including the illegal construction of a causeway, led the Department of Environment and Natural Resources to issue a cease and desist order , while action by local residents tried to stop the company’s trucks from bringing nickel laterite to the causeway.

Nickel is a growing component of the lithium-ion batteries used in electric vehicles and in energy storage. Global demand for nickel is expected to increase between 6 and 19 times current levels between 2020 and 2040, according to the International Energy Agency , with an increasing share of this open-pit laterite nickel coming from jurisdictions with weaker environmental and social standards.

The Philippines contains an estimated 5% of global nickel reserves in the form of extensive and shallow deposits of laterite, surface mined after removing the overlying vegetation and topsoil. Nickel mining has dramatically transformed several Philippine islands, vividly illustrated by Hinatuan Island which has a nickel mine half the size of the APMC concession on Sibuyan. Ironically, the Sibuyan municipality in which the mining lease is located is proposed to be declared as a Tourism Development Area .

Nickel mining will unleash extensive damage on rivers, reefs, and local livelihoods. APMC’s own project documents state that “surface mining will entail ground clearings and alteration of slopes. The consequences are erosion and sedimentation and turbidity of streams, which will affect the surrounding sea.” Nickel mining elsewhere in the Philippines has been linked to unsafe levels of hexavalent chromium , a known carcinogen that was featured in the film Erin Brockovich .

‘Galapagos of Asia’

Sibuyan Island is a small (449 km2) island surrounded by deep ocean and situated approximately in the center of the Philippines. The geographic isolation of the island has led to the evolution of endemic plants and animals found nowhere else in the world, making it of international importance for conservation and leading to its moniker, “Galapagos of Asia.”

In recognition of the extraordinary biodiversity and endemism of the island’s mountainous forests and jagged peaks, Mt. Guiting-Guiting Natural Park was declared by presidential decree in 1996 and ratified by Congress in 2018. The new protected area received the backing of the European Union and the Dutch Government while a parallel project led by WWF Philippines sought to improve rural livelihoods and bring recognition to Indigenous peoples’ customary land titles on the island.

Recent work has demonstrated that Philippine fauna is far richer than researchers previously assumed, with endemic species continuing to be discovered on Sibuyan and other islands. Much of the shift in appreciation of the evolutionary diversification in the Philippines has resulted from a better understanding of the archipelago’s complex geological history. Paradoxically, the same geological processes that produced this exceptional biodiversity are also responsible for the ultramafic rock type which is mined for laterite nickel.

Dr. Lawrence Heaney of the Field Museum of Natural History in Chicago has researched the biodiversity of Sibuyan since 1989 and has said, “I have documented five species of mammals that live only on Sibuyan Island. This is greater than the number of mammal species that are unique to any entire country in continental Europe.  I know of no island of similar size globally that has as many unique species. This is an extraordinary number from such a small island.”

Community opposition to mining

Sibuyan’s 60,000-strong population lives along the island’s coast and foothills. Local communities on Sibuyan have successfully opposed open-pit mining for over 50 years to protect their clean rivers, forest livelihoods and coastal reef fisheries, calling on successive Philippines presidents to declare the island free of metallic mining and revoke all existing exploration permits.

When asked, Barangay Councilor Donato Royo from España, one of two affected barangays on Sibuyan Island, said:

“We dread the effects of mining on our land, forest, and sea. Where shall we go if the mine pushes through? Sibuyan is the only place we know—it is our home, where we were born, live, and will die. Our survival depends on the island. We do not want our island to be mined ( ipamina ), we want to bequeath it as an inheritance to the next generation ( ipamana ).”

Impact of mining

The social impacts of nickel mining are also potentially devastating as globally more than half the transition minerals resource base is located on or near the lands of Indigenous peoples and rural communities. These territories sustain livelihoods as well as protect important terrestrial biodiversity and ecosystem services. Mongabay recently reported on toxic spills in Indonesia, the planet’s largest producer of laterite nickel, which have caused widespread livelihood impacts.

Canadian company Altai Resources Inc., which lists interests in Sibuyan and which previously reported APMC as a subsidiary , has identified 19 million tons of soil and rock that it will remove from the protected area and its buffer zone, clearing up to 1,580 hectares (3,904 acres) of forest in the process. Preliminary surveys indicate that there is a much larger unexplored area with similar nickel occurrence and the Philippines government has already granted exploration permits covering a further 5,500 hectares (13,591 acres) of forests around and overlapping the protected area.

Mining history and recent developments

Though mining concessions have been threatening Sibuyan since the 1970s, the first Mineral Production Sharing Agreement (an exclusive permit to mine a concession area) was not granted by the DENR until 2009. It covers two large areas of coastal and mountain forest and overlaps with the Mt. Guiting-Guiting Natural Park buffer zone and strict protection zone.

In 2011, in response to community mobilization, the DENR intervened and ordered exploration to stop. In 2017, the late DENR Secretary Gina Lopez, banned all open-pit mining in the Philippines.

The DENR stop order in Sibuyan was however lifted in 2021 ending the nationwide ban on open-pit mining. Though an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process has yet to be conducted to secure the permits to operate, the current Mineral Production Sharing Agreement holder, APMC, has been acting outside the law to construct a causeway for a port facility, cut trees, and extract ore.

See related: Red floods near giant nickel mine blight farms and fishing grounds

As a result, in February 2023, the DENR intervened again to temporarily halt mining operations, citing violations of environmental laws and absence of permits for tree cutting and causeway construction.

Community members protesting the illegal mining operations at the drilling site were subject to police violence (which was caught on video ) and wrongful arrest in February 2023. The Philippines Commission on Human Rights has received multiple complaints of harassment and intimidation , including that the mining company barred teachers from participating in anti-mining protests and forced students who participated to issue a public apology. Several environmental defenders are now the subject of legal action by the mining company, which protesters view as intimidation aimed at silencing opposition.

Village representatives have been manning a barricade to protect the forest and reefs from further damage. Elizabeth Ibañez, an island resident from one of the affected barangays, who is often stationed at the barricade, said:  “Sibuyan, I pray you will not be desecrated because of the greed and selfishness of a few. I give you my oath: I will never sell you to the miners.”

Sibuyanons are reaching out to Philippines media and protesting to show their opposition to mining, with the support of church and diaspora groups.  The Roman Catholic Diocese of Romblon has communicated via an intermediary that it “opposes all forms of metallic mining in Sibuyan and the province of Romblon.” Recently, over 1,300 island residents gathered in Barangay Taclobo for an anti-mining rally.

All over Sibuyan Island, especially in the municipality of San Fernando, signs of various styles, often handmade, proclaim “No to Mining.” Residents have put up red flags and hang the “no to mining” posters in front of their houses. Since the February 2, 2023 blockade , volunteers set up the “Barikada” camp to block access to the site of the illegal causeway. The video of residents blockading APMC trucks with nickel ore that went viral on social media triggered local and national media coverage. Efforts to spread awareness of the mining issue are also made by individuals through social media using the hashtag #notomininginsibuyanisland which on Tiktok alone has reached 6.5 million views.

The local legislative bodies of the affected localities have passed resolutions calling the national government and DENR to revoke the mining company’s Mineral Production Sharing Agreement (MPSA) and to ban any form of mining in Sibuyan.

Following the suspension of mining, local residents filed for a writ of kalikasan at the Philippines Supreme Court against the DENR, APMC and the Mines & Geosciences Bureau, in an attempt to permanently halt the mining. The writ was granted on 13 June 2023, providing ‘a legal remedy for persons or organizations whose constitutional right to a balanced and healthful ecology is violated or threatened.’ The writ places a requirement on the mining company and government agencies to provide evidence to dispel concerns regarding potential harmful impact of a project to the environment.

The DENR has repeatedly assured residents that its experts will visit the island to gather evidence, as Sibuyan residents have expressed frustration at the lack of engagement from the DENR secretary, who is being urged to cancel the Mineral Production Sharing Agreement of APMC. Human rights advocates are also pressing the Canadian government to explain the possible involvement of a Canadian company in legal violations and harassment of peaceful protesters in the central Philippines.

On social media, many environmental defenders are asking the same question – how can destroying the extraordinary biodiversity of Sibuyan and the lives of its island communities ever be justified?

Jake Willis works with a range of international and national agencies including IUCN, KfW and UNDP to improve the design, implementation and monitoring of conservation programs in Latin America, Central Africa, the Himalayas and Southeast Asia. He served as a forestry expert with Mt. Guiting-Guiting Natural Park from 2001-2003.

See related coverage of mining in the Philippines: 

Indigenous community fighting a mine in Palawan wins a milestone legal verdict

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Toilet paper: Environmentally impactful, but alternatives are rolling out

Rolling towards circularity? Tracking the trace of tires

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Consumed traces the life cycle of a variety of common consumer products from their origins, across supply chains, and waste streams. The circular economy is an attempt to lessen the pace and impact of consumption through efforts to reduce demand for raw materials by recycling wastes, improve the reusability/durability of products to limit pollution, and […]

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Sibuyanons form a human barricade to halt the transportation of Nickel ore. (Alyansa Tigil Mina/Facebook)

Isabel M. Dulay

Isabel M. Dulay was a former member of the Collegian.

Altai Philippine Mining Corporation (APMC) continued their nickel extraction from Sibuyan Island, Romblon without the necessary permits, which environmental groups say risked Sibuyanon’s well-being and the island’s ecological balance.

To firmly halt the transportation of nickel ore in San Fernando village, the residents formed a human barricade to block APMC’s trucks but they were forcibly dispersed by local authorities on February 3. A video of the violent dispersal went viral across social media.

The unauthorized tree-cutting resulted in damages to the habitats of the local animal species, triggering protests. Two people were reportedly left injured. However, residents say that several other individuals sustained injuries during the incident.

“A lot of the natural heritage, kung saan dependent yung mga taga-Sibuyan, when it comes to their farming and even yung pangingingisda nila, [are] all at risk if mining continues,” said John Bonifacio, national coordinator of Kalikasan People’s Network for the Environment (PNE).

The incident began when APMC started operations based on the exploration provision of their Mineral Production Sharing Agreement (MPSA) and began nickel ore extraction and transportation despite their failure to secure the necessary permits. 

APMC’s contract requires that other permits, including those from the local government, environmental clearance, and permit to construct a port, are acquired before exploration and extraction for sampling. 

The MPSA contract was initiated between APMC and the government which authorized the corporation to conduct mining operations over a given land area in exchange for the government receiving partial allocation from the profit of the project. 

Initially, APMC was granted an exploration permit in 2011 but was later ordered to halt operations by the Mines and Geosciences Bureau due to lack of “social acceptability.” The order was lifted in 2021 during the Duterte administration and APMC promptly renewed the permit in July 2022, explained Rodne Galicha, chairperson of Bayay Sibuyanon, a group that advocates for the mining operations removal on the island. 

The exploration permit was authorized under the Philippine Mining Act of 1995. But despite the measures required by the mining law, APMC was able to operate without the necessary permits, leaving Sibuyan Island at the losing end.

APMC was unable to present the complete documents from the barangay and the Philippine Port Authority (PPA) to construct a private port as well as their environmental compliance certificate (ECC), effectively breaching the conditions stipulated in their MPSA. 

“It doesn't mean that if they have the mineral production share agreement and exploration permit, they can [already] do other things. The MPSA says they need to acquire permits that are necessary and desirable and failure to do it may be grounds for the cancellation of their mineral production share,” said Galicha. 

In response, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) suspended APMCs transportation permit and instructed the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office of Romblon to assess and file charges against the company for illegal tree-cutting and damage to marine resources.

The delayed government response in addressing APMC’s operations has impacted nearby water sources and habitats of endangered species.

“On a national level, it took a while from the start of the people’s barricade until naglabas ang DENR ng statement on the issue. It took a lot of pressure from civil society for that to happen and the same thing on a regional level,” said Bonifacio.

APMC has withdrawn and temporarily suspended operations following the order issued by DENR. However, their equipment remains within the area and has not yet been taken down, leaving the possibility of their return.

Environmental advocates call on the DENR to scrap the existing MPSA and enact House Bill 259, also known as the People’s Mining Bill, which aims to reorient the mining industry to prioritize local development of extracted minerals and resources over foreign multinational conglomerates. 

The bill proposes nationalizing the mining industry and achieving self-sufficiency through government-sponsored national industrialization, by localizing the workforce and equipment while prioritizing community development, environmental protection, and indigenous rights.

A 25-year mining moratorium or ban has also been proposed to suspend mining operations and enable the protection of environmental resources as suggested by Galicha. However, Executive Order 130, issued by former President Rodrigo Duterte to lift the ban on open-pit mining, considered the most destructive kind of mining, is an indication of the government’s disapproval of such a ban.

“Kailangan i-nationalize yung mining industry kasi hindi talaga sasapat na we just cater to the whims of international companies who come in and extract so much. Kailangan ma-reorient yung production para the development in livelihood stays here,” Bonfacio said.  ●

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Sibuyan’s reminder: People, not profit, should drive the mining industry

March 3, 2023

by Mark Ernest Famatigan

My family hails from Romblon, a province I consider one of the quietest in the country. Not just in a literal sense (the province mostly consisted of a few urban centers, the rest are rural barrios, so you can only imagine how noiseless the islands can be), but politically. Romblon does not often get the attention of the national media, so imagine my shock when Sibuyan Island made it to the news.

Over the previous month, Sibuyan has been making headlines in light of a protest led by its residents against a nickel mining firm. On January 26, residents and anti-mining groups had apparently formed a human barricade to stop a truck from transporting nickel ore. Another barricade was formed on February 3, but the Philippine National Police (PNP) dispersed the protesters, allowing three mining trucks to pass through.

Why are Sibuyanons against these operations? Needless to say, as with any mining operation, nickel extraction is environmentally destructive. The formation of pathways on the island means the cutting down of trees, erosion of soil, and destruction of small ecosystems dependent on the island’s lush green forests.

That, on top of violations of the Philippine Environmental Impact Statement System, the Toxic Substances and Hazardous and Nuclear Wastes Control Act, the Philippine Clean Water Act, and Presidential Decree 705, for illegal logging, according to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

Sibuyan is just one of many communities whose harmony was disrupted by mining corporations. In Brooke’s Point , Palawan, residents followed in the former’s footsteps by also forming a human barricade against another nickel mining firm supposedly operating without a mayor’s permit and Certificate Precondition (CP). There’s also the copper-gold rich Tampakan open-pit mine, where Sagittarius Mines, Inc. operates. Locals have been resisting that too.

There seems to be a problem when big corporations – both foreign and domestic – are in charge of mining operations. When mining was liberalized under the Philippine Mining Act of 1995, the country’s mining industry was ever more placed at the service of foreign capital, putting Filipino interests second when mineral ores are extracted. While its direct effects were listed in the previous paragraphs, this power dynamic in the mining industry also induced the displacement of national minorities from their ancestral lands, the deception, human rights violations including extrajudicial killings of the former, environmental defenders and other rights advocates, and the unsustainable, market-driven extraction of natural resources.

What more can we expect when the industry’s motivation is not people’s welfare, but the profit-seeking agenda of greedy corporations?

The conundrum of the mining industry can be mitigated through tightened government regulation, but only fully solved if it is nationalized with a democratic and accountable State overseeing its development. When the government leads the development of mining, it is obligated to operate with Filipino interests in mind, since it is directly accountable to the people and must undergo strict checks and balances, which is not the case for the private sector under a liberalized economy.

This is exactly what the People’s Mining Bill is trying to solve. The bill was first introduced in Congress by progressive lawmakers as early as 2011. Under this bill, the state will develop the industry that factors in the medium and long-term needs of the people while upholding the self-determination of national minorities, human and labor rights, and the environment’s preservation and protection. It is also the only bill that recognizes the role of mining in national industrialization, a pillar of national development, especially with the absence of Filipino-owned industries that the people should be benefiting from.

Unfortunately, bureaucrat capitalist and landlord interests dominate Congress until today, with a supermajority of Marcos Jr.’s allies in the House of Representatives. The bill had to be refiled again and again, with the most recent refiling on June 30, 2022. It was not approved at the committee-level until February 10 this year.

We have a long way to go in this regard, for while such pro-people policies are non-existent and unenforced, expect more communities like Sibuyan to be under the gaze of exploitative mining firms that take advantage of the industry, run it for profit, and leave us with nothing for very little.

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Philippines: Mining activity on Sibuyan Island must be halted to prevent further killing and violence

Also available in, attachments, phl 121207 escr, phl 121207 escr spa, sibuyan island reply to omct.

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Philippines: Embracing Transparency Critical for Mining Sector

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The mining sector in the Philippines has had a lethal impact on people and the environment. Will an international transparency process help end it?

The world is getting deadlier for environmental defenders.

On average, more than four people were killed every week protecting their land and the natural world in 2019, according to Global Witness . The most dangerous sector was mining , which accounted for 43 deaths, and the greatest number of killings occurred in the Philippines . This month, however, there’s a vital chance to tackle this and other issues plaguing mining in the Philippines when the sector opens itself up to an international transparency process. 

Mining contributes relatively little to the Philippines’ GDP and generates few jobs, but it has long been a source of conflict. For those on its frontline, particularly local and indigenous communities opposing mining on or near their land, the consequences can be fatal. In 2091, 16 people were killed in mining-related deaths in the country.

One reason why mining fuels such controversy and violence is that efforts to exploit the Philippines’ vast untapped gold, copper, and nickel deposits — estimated at $1 trillion — have frequently displaced indigenous people and brought about environmental devastation.

Operating the big, open-pit mines needed to achieve economies of scale have led to landslides, pollution, the destruction of precious rainforests and wildlife, and one of the world’s worst toxic mining disasters. In 1996, a tunnel at the Marcopper mine on the island of Marinduque fractured and millions of tons of toxic waste poured into the Boac River and the sea, causing untold damage and triggering the evacuation of 20,000 people.

In the aftermath of the disaster, the government revised the implementing rules of the Mining Act to strengthen its environmental and social protections. In 2012, the Philippines took an important step toward a more accountable mining industry by joining the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI), the global standard in the open and accountable management of oil, gas, and minerals.

This month, when the EITI begins the process of validating our progress in meeting its standards, it will have a golden opportunity to help create accountability in the governance of extractives and address other problems that still afflict mining in the Philippines.

As the foremost institution promoting openness and accountability in the extractive sectors, the EITI has the responsibility to ensure that civil society organizations can contribute effectively and meaningfully to improving how mining is run in the Philippines. If civil society cannot access or give information, exercise its rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association, and public participation, as well as hold its government accountable, the EITI will not be able to help countries transform how their oil, gas, and mining sectors are governed.

As someone working for an organization that supports the EITI process in the Philippines on the ground, and that acts as a bridge between affected communities, mining companies, other NGOs, and the government, I see first-hand how communities are being constrained in raising their concerns about mining operations in their areas.

Civic freedoms have eroded in the Philippines in recent years — a situation exacerbated during the COVID-19 lockdown, during which a number of land and environmental defenders were arrested. This has enabled mining operations to act without proper transparency or scrutiny, particularly in indigenous peoples’ ancestral lands , which are rich in natural resources.

Before permits are granted and mining starts in their areas, indigenous and local communities must be consulted and given space to raise their concerns. All too frequently this isn’t happening. In 2013, a briefing commissioned by the German government found that indigenous and local communities were commonly being denied their legal right to Free and Prior Informed Consent (FPIC) to mining projects in their areas.

Little has changed since. It is only by being fully informed that communities can truly decide what is in their best interests, and whether a new mine will benefit or damage their lives and livelihoods. This can only happen when they, civil society, and all those defending their land and the environment, are given the space to express their views without threats of violence or intimidation hanging over them.

The EITI has the chance to help make this happen in the Philippines, and must grasp it.

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DENR orders mining firm to stop operations on Sibuyan Island

An aerial view of allegedly illegal mining operations on Sibuyan Island, taken on Saturday, Feb. 4, 2023. (Photo by GERARDO RIBON from the Sibuyan Island Facebook page)

MANILA, Philippines — Following several days of anti-mining protests, Sibuyan Island residents celebrated another victory on Tuesday as Altai Philippines Mining Company (APMC) was ordered by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to cease and desist mining operations, according to Alyansa Tigil Mina (ATM).

Tensions on the island reached a boiling point when two residents were hurt as police dispersed a human barricade created to stop mining trucks from passing.

“The DENR Order suspending the current operations of APMC is a clear victory for the people of Sibuyan. Without the firm resistance of the Sibuyan residents and environmental defenders, we doubt if the DENR will lift a finger on the violations of the APMC,” ATM national coordinator Jaybee Garganera said.

The DENR specifically ordered the APMC to  “cease and desist from the construction and operation of its causeway.”

The DENR also suspended the ore transport permit of APMC and denied its application for a miscellaneous lease agreement.

The order also said that the Romblon Provincial Environmental and Natural Resources Office is to conduct an investigation of “the potentially damaged sea grass and other marine resources.”

The mining firm may also face legal actions, “if warranted,” for allegedly cutting of trees without a permit.

The DENR order was signed Monday, the ATM released it to the media only on Tuesday.

On Monday, APMC said that it was voluntarily stopping mining operations, assuring the public of its commitment to environmental responsibility and cooperation with authorities.

Prior to this however, the DENR has already given the company a Notice of Violation for its noncompliance with several rules, including failing to show an Environmental Compliance Certificate.

The DENR released an official statement on Wednesday affirming the aforementioned cease and desist order, as well as the notice of violations.

READ: Reprieve for Sibuyan Island residents as mining ops ordered to stop

According to the DENR, the APMC incurred the following Notices of Violations as of February 1, 2023, for breaching the following policies:

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Section 4 of Presidential Decree No. 1586 or the Philippine Environmental Impact Statement System

Republic Act (RA) 6969 or the Toxic Substances and Hazardous and Nuclear Wastes Control Act of 1990

RA 9275 or the Philippine Clean Water Act of 2004,

Presidential Decree 705 for cutting trees without a permit.

“The DENR firmly assures the public, especially the residents of Sibuyan Island, that the Department continues to strictly implement environmental laws in order to ensure the safety of the community and promote inclusive development in the Province of Romblon,” said the agency.

RELATED STORIES

Two injured as police dispersed anti-mining human barricade in sibuyan, mining firm drops cases against sibuyan environmental leaders, reprieve for sibuyan island residents as mining ops ordered to stop.

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CHR probes ‘violations’ of mining firm in Sibuyan Island, Romblon

The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) is set to investigate the alleged violations of a mining company in Sibuyan Island in Romblon after a “violent” dispersal of a protest staged by residents last Jan. 26.

In a statement, the CHR said it received images and videos showing a human barricade formed by Sibuyan Island residents on Jan. 26, which attempted to halt the mining trucks owned by Altai Philippines Mining Corporation (APMC) from transporting nickel ore from the island to be tested overseas.

It said that residents have complained that APMC committed several violations, including alleged failure to show a barangay clearance, municipal business permit, foreshore lease contract from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), and a permit from Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) to construct a private port.

It also said that because of the human barricade, a police dispersal eventually took place. The dispersal resulted in a number of protesters reportedly injured and one barangay councilor arrested. Three trucks carrying the nickel ores were also able to pass through.

"The CHR, pursuant to our mandate to look into possible human rights violations concerning economic, social, and cultural rights, has taken cognizance of the case and is doing a motu proprio investigation of this incident," it said.

It noted that the Sibuyan Island residents have reportedly long been opposed to the extraction of minerals on the island due to its negative impacts on the biodiversity in the area.

"This is not the first independent investigation that CHR is conducting in Sibuyan Island related to the issue of mining," the CHR noted.

"Even before the dispersal incident, CHR had already received a complaint in September 2022 that local anti-mining advocates had been the target of harassment and intimidation by APMC,” it said.

In its previous investigation, the CHR said it coordinated closely with local government units, the DENR, PPA, and concerned residents in order to ascertain the truth.

At the same time, the CHR said that the mining company reportedly barred teachers from participating in anti-mining gatherings and even refrained them from posting anti-mining sentiments online. Two students were also allegedly brought to the barangay and were forced to issue a public apology, it said.

While APMC has reportedly volunteered to stop its mining operations, the CHR said there is still a need to determine accountabilities for possible human rights violations and abuses committed. There should also be an assurance of appropriate remedies for the harm done -- not only to the residents, but to the environment as well, it also said.

"CHR stresses that private companies have a responsibility to prevent, address, and remedy abuses arising from business operations under the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights," the CHR declared.

"The said set of principles recognize the impact of businesses in the way a community and its people enjoy their rights, as well as the State's obligation to ensure protection of the rights, especially that of the disadvantaged and marginalized,” it emphasized.

TAGS: #CHR #Sibuyan Island #Altai Philippines Mining Corporation

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Suspension of Altai mining ops in Sibuyan welcomed, but ‘fight far from over’

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This is AI generated summarization, which may have errors. For context, always refer to the full article.

Environmentalists from the Kalikasan People's Network for the Environment stage a rally at the Department of Environment and Natural Resources office in Quezon City to demand from the government to put a stop to the mining activities of Altai Philippines Mining Corporation in Sibuyan Island, Romblon, on February 6, 2023.

Jire Carreon/Rappler

MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has temporarily stopped mining operations by Altai Philippines Mining Corporation (APMC) in Sibuyan Island, Romblon in light of alleged violations of environmental regulations.

According to an inspection by the DENR-Environmental Management Bureau of Mimaropa last February 1, APMC does not have an environmental compliance certificate for constructing a causeway project. Mimaropa comprises the provinces of Mindoro Occidental, Mindoro Oriental, Marinduque, Romblon and Palawan.

The environment department also found that APMC cut down and damaged trees at the exploration site, and was issued a notice of violation on February 3. APMC failed to present a cutting permit. 

A kite of this kind starts to kill Sibuyan but we will fly our kites of freedom up high to shield our home. Thank you to whoever took this photo of a wound which we will altogether cure the island. #TikopSIbuyan #HoldTheLineForSibuyan #SaveSibuyan pic.twitter.com/m570h6SX9O — Rodne R. Galicha (@kalikasan101) February 5, 2023

In a statement, APMC said it is halting operations and will continue “full cooperation and coordination with the relevant authorities to address any concerns or issues that have been raised.”

Far from over

Although activists and residents opposed to the mining project welcomed the temporary halt, they said the “fight is far from over,” and vowed to continue the human barricade against the project.

The barricade blocking APMC trucks in Brgy. España, San Fernando, Romblon, was put up on January 26, 2023. Environmentalists said APMC failed to show a barangay clearance, municipal business permit, foreshore lease contract from the DENR, and a Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) permit to construct a private port.

Sibuyan Island residents form human barricade to stop mining trucks https://t.co/tRMkdv39pF via @rapplerdotcom — Iya Gozum (@iyagozum) February 1, 2023

“If not for the resistance of the people of Sibuyan, these violations would have never come to light,” said Jon Bonifacio, national coordinator of Kalikasan People’s Network for the Environment, during a protest in front of the DENR headquarters in Quezon City, on Monday, February 6. 

They also noted that the Mineral Production Sharing Agreement (MPSA) granted by the DENR to APMC is still in effect.

The Center for Environmental Concerns-Philippines (CEC) called for an investigation and the immediate cancellation of the MPSA. 

“We cannot have a leadership content with simply staying on the sidelines,” said Lia Mai Torres, executive director of CEC. 

Yuki Ruado, a 19-year-old resident of Sibuyan and student of Romblon State University-San Fernando Campus who also joined the barricade, said people are still processing the events that transpired in the past days.

“Na-trauma po kami sa mga policemen na supposedly matatakbuhan namin pero [sila] pang gumamit ng pwersa para mapapasok lang ang trucks papasok sa port ,” Ruado told Rappler. 

(We experienced trauma after the policemen, who were supposed to help us, used violence against us just to let the trucks pass.)

In an interview with ABS-CBN’s TeleRadyo on Monday, February 6, Brgy. España, San Fernando kagawad Jhay Romero said the human barricade with still be there in case APMC’s trucks try to enter the pier to transport samples of nickel ore.

“Haharangan pa rin po namin,” Romero said. “Kasi hahanapan pa po namin ng clearance po sa barangay at saka sa munisipyo. Kasi ang sabi ni Mayor (Nanette Tansingco), wala daw ‘yang mga permit .” 

(We will still block the trucks. We will see if they have a barangay and municipal clearance. Because the Mayor said APMC still doesn’t have permits.)

Meanwhile, Senator Risa Hontiveros filed a resolution on Monday, seeking a probe into the mining activities in Sibuyan Island. 

In a statement, Hontiveros said it is time the government “truly” listen to the concerns of Sibuyanons. 

“’Yung mga nagmimina, pag nakuha na nila ang gusto nila, lilipat na sila ng ibang lugar. Pero ang mga residente at pati mga apo nila, habambuhay na maninirahan sa Sibuyan Island,” Hontiveros said.  

(The miners, after they get what they want, they leave and go to other places. But the residents and their grandchildren are those who will stay in Sibuyan Island for a long time.) – Rappler.com  

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