TACLOBAN CITY — Farmers in MacArthur, Leyte are appealing to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to halt proposed iron sand mining in their communities, warning that the project could destroy farmlands, irrigation systems, and local livelihoods.
Over 200 rice farmers from barangays Maya, Pongon, Liwayway, and Romualdez held a candlelight vigil on February 7 to voice their opposition to operations by MacArthur Ironsand Mining Corp. (MIMC), which covers a 2,268-hectare area under a Mineral Production Sharing Agreement (MPSA) held by Strong Built Mining Development Corp. since 2007.
In a petition dated February 4, the farmers warned that resuming mining would lead to income loss, hunger, and long-term environmental damage, including biodiversity loss and water pollution. “We appeal to you to issue an Executive Order stopping the damaging mining operations in our territory,” the residents said.
Spokesperson Jesus Cabias Jr. said the farmers are not against mining in principle but questioned the company’s compliance with permit conditions, particularly rehabilitation of mined areas since operations began in 2012. Cabias also claimed that some residents opposing mining have faced harassment and restricted access to their own lands.
MIMC suspended operations in 2022 after damaging a drainage canal but resumed last June following local government approval contingent on restoration efforts. Opposition intensified after the arrival of a large dredger on January 2, raising fears of further damage to rice fields and irrigation systems.
The Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) clarified that while MIMC holds a valid MPSA, its work program—which includes environmental safeguards and rehabilitation plans—has not yet been approved.
“Without that, they cannot resume operations in MacArthur,” said MGB Eastern Visayas information officer Celeste Faith de la Cruz.
MIMC, however, maintains it is legally entitled to operate, with area manager Laurence Medua saying, “We have complied with the requirements under the mining laws, and our documents are in order.”
MacArthur Mayor Rodin Babante said he would not intervene as long as the company secures all necessary clearances and adheres to MPSA terms, noting that some farmers have entered into agreements with the mining firm, including land buy-back schemes.
(JOEY A. GABIETA)
