Greenpeace Philippines welcomes the Palawan provincial government’s decision to impose a 50-year ban on new mining operations in the province.[1] This decision is a step in the right direction to ensure the survival of communities, and future generations in the face of the triple planetary crisis, setting a precedent that the rest of the country should follow.
“The Philippines is already facing the worst impacts of the climate crisis–yet destructive industries keep fueling disasters, putting profit over people,” said Lea Guerrero, Greenpeace Philippines Country Director. “The recent devastating floods in Palawan are a stark reminder of how environmental impacts from other destructive industries make it worse, and this decision by Palawan leaders and the strong campaign of communities against mining recognizes the urgent need to protect the province’s rich biodiversity and communities from the irreversible damage caused by large-scale mining. It is a crucial step in ensuring a sustainable and climate-resilient future for Palawan and the rest of the country.”
“The moratorium on endorsement of new and pending applications is a good start,” said Grizelda Gerthie Mayo-Anda, Executive Director of Environmental Legal Assistance Center and Convenor of the Save Palawan Movement (SPM). “Of course, there are continuing challenges with existing mines in six areas and 11 mineral agreements. But new mining applications of about 77 will cover more than 200,000 hectares of natural forest. We can save these forests and help enable Palawenos to achieve climate resilience.”
“We urge the national government to take inspiration from Palawan’s leadership and implement stronger, long-term policies that prioritize the protection of the people and the environment over short-term economic gain,” Guerrero added. “The country must move away from destructive extractive industries and invest in real, sustainable climate solutions–such as ecosystem protection, community-led conservation, and sustainable livelihoods that put people and planet at the center.”
Over the years, Palawan has faced numerous threats from environmentally destructive projects, including the controversial plan by Nickelodeon to build an underwater theme park in 2017, which was ultimately scrapped due to strong public opposition.[2] Palawan is one of the country’s last ecological frontiers, home to critical forests, marine ecosystems, and indigenous communities whose survival depends on a healthy environment. This latest victory against mining is a testament to the ongoing fight of Palawan’s people to protect their home from corporate exploitation.
Greenpeace calls on voters to elect leaders who will champion the protection of the people and environment over corporate profit. We need decision-makers who will commit to policies that safeguard the environment, uphold climate justice, and transition the country to a just and sustainable future. This decision is proof that a different path is possible–one that prioritizes sustainability, justice, and resilience over the profit of corporations.
Notes to editor:
[1] Palawan approves ban of new mining operations for 50 years
[2] Nickelodeon abandons Philippine resort plan after backlash — In 2017, over 200,000 Filipinos signed the petition against the planned underwater theme park in Palawan
