​​​​​​​Philippine bishops launch 25-Year Mining Moratorium Campaign: A bold move to protect nature and empower communities

In a landmark move to safeguard Palawan’s natural beauty and resources, the province’s three Catholic bishops have launched a signature campaign advocating for a 25-year moratorium on mining.

The initiative, unveiled during the First Sunday of Advent Mass at the Immaculate Conception Cathedral, builds on a joint pastoral letter issued on December 1 by Bishop Socrates Mesiona of the Apostolic Vicariate of Puerto Princesa, Bishop Broderick Pabillo of the Apostolic Vicariate of Taytay, and Bishop Emeritus Edgardo Juanich.

Bishop Mesiona, addressing the congregation in his homily, emphasized the Church’s moral responsibility to care for the environment. “We are appealing for a 25-year moratorium on new mining applications or expansions,” he declared. “Let us pause and ensure comprehensive studies and proper zoning to protect critical areas such as old-growth forests and watersheds.”

The bishop further stressed the importance of sustainable economic strategies, advocating for the development of local industries to process minerals responsibly and create long-term employment.

“While waiting, we must also hold current mining operations accountable to restore the damaged mountains and forests,” he added.

The bishops underscored the gravity of the situation with concerning statistics: In 2016, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) authorized the cutting of nearly 28,000 trees in Palawan.

This year, one company applied to cut an additional 8,000 trees, while another was approved to fell 52,200 trees.

There are currently 67 pending mining exploration applications, covering over 200,000 hectares, and 11 existing agreements already spanning 29,000 hectares.

Bishop Mesiona issued a pointed challenge to Palawan’s provincial legislators, urging them to prioritize the environment and the welfare of local communities over corporate and political interests.

“This is a test of leadership—whether they genuinely care for Palawan or succumb to other pressures,” he said.

The joint pastoral letter also revealed that Palawan is the only province in the MIMAROPA region without a mining moratorium ordinance.

Neighboring provinces like Mindoro, Marinduque, and Romblon have already enacted similar measures. Even local municipalities and Puerto Princesa City have taken steps to ban large-scale mining operations.

Bishop Mesiona concluded his appeal with a call to action inspired by Scripture. “This is the cry of Mother Nature, the farmers, fishers, and indigenous communities who suffer from mining’s destruction. It is also the cry of those who believe in our duty to protect Palawan as stewards of creation,” he declared, urging Palawenos to sign the petition and ensure the ordinance’s passage.

In a separate pastoral letter issued on November 16, Bishop Mesiona detailed the environmental risks posed by unchecked mining.

He warned that deforestation and unregulated mining could exacerbate erosion, landslides, and long-term ecological harm. “Mining is not merely about profit; it’s about preserving life and nature for generations to come,” he cautioned.

The bishops’ campaign is gaining traction among communities, environmental advocates, and stakeholders. By rallying public support, they aim to address the pressing need for sustainable development while ensuring that Palawan’s unparalleled natural heritage is preserved.

This call for a mining moratorium is more than an environmental advocacy—it is a bold stand for the integrity of creation, the welfare of vulnerable communities, and the future of one of the Philippines’ most treasured provinces.