Rodne Galicha hailed the approval of the 25-year mining moratorium ordinances in three barangays as a victory for both present and future Sibuyanons.
The ordinances, passed by Barangay España, Taclobo, and Pili, were endorsed by the committee of the whole in the San Fernando council. While they won't have a retroactive effect on existing mining agreements, these local laws effectively deem any new applications and approvals for metallic mining in the mentioned barangays as illegal.
The committee's endorsement is set for deliberation and potential approval through a municipal council resolution next Tuesday.
“This victory isn't only for present and future Sibuyanons but also for the preservation of our delicate ecosystems' flora and fauna. We commend the barangay officials of España, Taclobo, and Pili, as well as the San Fernando municipal council for their commitment to nature's rights and the people's right to a healthy and balanced ecology,” Galicha stated.
In February, a people's initiative was also initiated to enact a 25-year mining moratorium ordinance in the wider municipality of San Fernando, which is currently awaiting action by the municipal council.
Galicha further urged the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to address their demand to revoke the mineral production sharing agreement (MPSA) of Altai Philippines Mining Corporation (APMC), based on legitimate legal, social, and scientific concerns. DENR had already uncovered violations in Altai's San Fernando operations, resulting in a cease and desist order last February.
In May, the Supreme Court issued a writ of kalikasan, substantiating the concerns raised in a petition regarding APMC's operations. The case has since been referred to the Court of Appeals for further proceedings, including evidence presentation and responses from respondents.
