AS THE RENEWAL of the Mineral Production Sharing Agreement (MPSA) for TVI Resource Development Philippines Inc. (TVIRD) looms, the opposition from the residents of Pan de Azucar Island in Concepcion, Iloilo shines the spotlight on environmental governance and community rights.
For 25 years, TVIRD held the rights to explore Pan de Azucar. However, significant mining activities have yet to commence, primarily due to external factors like the COVID-19 pandemic. As the expiration of the MPSA in mid-June 2024 approaches, the renewal process has sparked strong opposition from local residents and political leaders.
The resistance is not without reason. Residents of three barangays (Taloto-an, Macatunao and Tambaliza) making up Pan de Azucar have expressed serious concerns over environmental and health risks associated with mining activities. A petition voicing these vehemently opposes the renewal of the MPSA. For the islanders, the stakes are high – preserving their way of life, ensuring environmental sustainability, and safeguarding public health, particularly against the backdrop of arsenic contamination found in local groundwater.
Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr.’s intervention thru a Cease-and-Desist Order to halt exploration due to arsenic contamination amplifies the severity of the situation. He cited potential health risks — ranging from acute symptoms like nausea and vomiting to long-term effects such as cancer. Prioritizing community welfare over industrial interests is a no-brainer.
The situation at Pan de Azucar Island raises important questions about the role of local voices in decisions that have far-reaching consequences on their lives. The “Save Pan de Azucar Island Movement”, with approximately 500 signatures to its petition, is a significant segment of those three small barangays — a segment that demands to be heard.
Moreover, efforts by Governor Defensor to rally support for amending the Local Government Code to give local governments a say in mining operations is a wise step toward empowering communities. These moves advocate for a governance model where local entities possess greater authority to reject or approve mining operations based on thorough assessments of social, environmental, and health impacts.
The situation at Pan de Azucar call for a reevaluation of how mining permits are granted and renewed. Transparency, community engagement, and rigorous environmental assessments should be at the heart of mining laws. The national government and environmental bodies would be wiser to consider the will and welfare of the local populace. After all, true development is sustainable only when it does not come at the cost of the people it intends to serve.
