Mining-free Sibuyan gains ground as local opposition mounts
CALAPAN CITY—Opposition to large-scale mining on Sibuyan Island gained momentum after the Romblon provincial board approved a resolution declaring its opposition to all large-scale metallic mining operations on the island, while the municipal council of San Fernando withdrew its endorsement of a proposed nickel mining project.
The provincial board unanimously approved the resolution on July 31, urging President Marcos and Congress to declare Sibuyan Island a large-scale mining-free zone.
According to local officials, the measure underscores that the island’s rich natural resources and fragile ecosystems must be protected from large-scale metallic mining activities.
The provincial board’s action comes amid sustained opposition from local officials, environmental groups, church leaders and residents who have raised concerns over the potential impact of mining on Sibuyan’s forests, watersheds, biodiversity and local livelihoods.
Sibuyan Island is widely known for its exceptional biodiversity and is often referred to as the “Galapagos of Asia.”
In a parallel development, the municipal council of San Fernando approved a resolution withdrawing its earlier endorsement of the proposed Mineral Production Sharing Agreement operations of Altai Philippines Mining Corporation in Barangay España.
During a special session on Monday, the municipal council voted to recall and withdraw Municipal Resolution No. 297, Series of 2026, which had expressed support for the company’s mining operations.
The session, led by Presiding Officer Pro Tempore Cedmark Francis Renion, was attended by six council members, enough to constitute a quorum.
Voting in favor of the withdrawal were Sangguniang Kabataan (Youth Council) Federation President Jaylar Relox and councilors Frankie Romano, Daxie Benedict Rios and Maritess Clavel, while councilors Dante Marin and Cynthia Rios opposed the measure.
The resolution was taken up after San Fernando Mayor Fernando “Nanding” Uy Marin certified it as urgent, citing alleged procedural issues surrounding the adoption of the earlier endorsement and growing public concern over the project’s impact on peace and order.
Peaceful protests
Local authorities noted that since July 17, various sectors have staged peaceful protests, prayer brigades, noise barrages and other demonstrations opposing the mining proposal.
The municipal government said the withdrawal reflects its commitment to due process, transparency and careful consideration of issues affecting the environment, livelihoods and long-term development of San Fernando and the rest of Sibuyan Island. It also noted the authority of local governments to grant or withdraw endorsements for projects requiring permits, licenses and continuing social acceptability.
Residents and environmental advocates held a peaceful prayer vigil outside the old municipal hall while the council deliberated on the resolution.
Environmental group Bayay Sibuyanon Inc. welcomed the provincial board’s action, describing it as “a collective step towards a mining-free Sibuyan.”
“For generations, Sibuyan has been more than the place we call home. It is the source of our water, food, livelihoods, culture and identity,” the group said in a statement.
The organization said the resolution affirms that Sibuyan’s future should be anchored on protecting its natural heritage and the welfare of its communities rather than allowing large-scale commercial mining operations.
Bayay Sibuyanon also called on the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and other national agencies to align their policies with the position expressed by Romblon’s provincial government and residents.
Romblon Governor Trina Firmalo-Fabic thanked members of the provincial board for supporting the measure.
