Senator Risa Hontiveros on Monday filed a resolution seeking an investigation into nickel and metallic mining activities in Sibuyan Island, Romblon.
Hontiveros filed Senate Resolution No. 459 after tension arose between protesters and police over the weekend in front of the Altai Philippines Mining Corp.’s port in Sitio Bato, Barangay España in San Fernando, leaving at least two residents injured.
“The peaceful demonstration of the residents against the mining operations of the company in their own land should have not led to a violent ending,” Hontiveros said.
“The residents just wanted to protect their natural resources. The residents are well within their rights to protest,” she added.
Hontiveros pointed out that Sibuyan is considered “The Galapagos in Asia” for its extraordinary flora and fauna. The resolution also detailed the hundreds of diverse plant and animal species that have been discovered in the area.
“We, in the Senate, should help champion the conservation of the island’s endemic flora and fauna, defend its coastal communities from long-term ecological devastation, and protect the residents from violent incursions of mining companies,” she said.
Residents of Sibuyan have been fighting for almost two decades to stop mining exploration on their island, according to the senator. Sibuyan’s mineral wealth – specifically nickel — has made it a mining hotspot, but the Department of Environment and Natural Resources lifted its cease and desist order against APMC, allowing the company to proceed with its nickel mining activities in Sibuyan.
By 29 December 2022, a mineral ore export permit had been issued to APMC, allowing it to bulk-test 50,000 metric tons of ore.
Sibuyan residents contend that the company failed to secure a barangay clearance, municipal business permit, and foreshore lease contract with the DENR, and a permit to construct a private port from the Philippine Ports Authority.