Mining firm fights Romblon town move
CALAPAN CITY—Explorarion firm Altai Philippines Mining Corp. (APMC) said it is prepared to pursue legal and administrative remedies after the municipal council of San Fernando, Romblon, withdrew its earlier endorsement of the company’s proposed mining project on Sibuyan Island.
In a statement, APMC expressed concern over what it described as an attempt by some members of the municipal council to reverse Municipal Resolution No. 297, which had endorsed the company’s mining project.
The company said the endorsement, approved on July 17, came only after it had complied with all legal and regulatory requirements and after the proposed resolution underwent formal deliberations before being approved by what it described as an “overwhelming majority” of council members.
APMC questioned the withdrawal of the endorsement just two weeks later, saying the move was “highly unusual” and raised “serious questions” about the circumstances surrounding the reversal.
Procedural concerns
“The speed of this action suggests the possible influence of vested interests inconsistent with the transparency, integrity, and collective decision-making expected of a legislative body,” the company said.
APMC maintained that it remains committed to responsible mining, environmental protection, and maintaining good relations with its host communities.
The company said it would pursue “all legal and administrative remedies” available under Philippine law to protect its interests and hold accountable anyone found liable under the law.
On Monday, the San Fernando Municipal Council approved a resolution recalling and withdrawing its earlier endorsement of APMC’s proposed nickel mining project, citing procedural concerns.
The council also called for additional public consultations, independent scientific and technical studies, natural capital accounting, ecosystem services valuation, and a comprehensive cost-benefit analysis before any future decision is made.
In response to APMC’s statement, the citizens’ group Barikada ng Mamamayan ng Sibuyan defended the municipal council’s action, saying local legislative bodies have the authority under the Local Government Code and their internal rules to review, amend, or withdraw their own resolutions.
It noted that the council’s action was intended to ensure that decisions with far-reaching effects on residents undergo proper procedures, sufficient deliberation, and evidence-based evaluation.
The group also expressed concern that statements made amid the controversy could create a “chilling effect” on members of the municipal council and citizens participating in the democratic process.
The dispute follows growing opposition from environmental advocates, community groups, and Church leaders to APMC’s proposed nickel mining project in San Fernando on Sibuyan Island. The company, however, has maintained that its operations will comply with Philippine laws and environmental regulations.
