SC issues writ of kalikasan vs. firm, DENR over Sibuyan Island mining operations

SIBUYAN/MANILA – The Supreme Court has issued a “writ of kalikasan” against Altai Philippines Mining Corporation (APMC), the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), and its Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) over controversial nickel mining operations on Sibuyan island in Romblon following a petition by local residents filed last February.

According to the SC, it issued the writ of kalikasan versus APMC, DENR, and MGB in a resolution dated June 13.

A writ of kalikasan is a legal remedy which protects the right of Filipinos to a “balanced and healthful ecology in accord with the rhythm and harmony of nature,” pursuant to Article II, Section 16 of the Philippine Constitution.

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Re- mulla earlier described the writ as a special civil action that could urge respondents to “do something” about nature or repair environmental damage.

In late January, APMC led mining exploration and operations on Sibuyan mining exploration and operations on Sibuyan island and planned to export 50,000 metric tons of nickel ore for testing overseas.

Environmentalists and residents of the island protested the mining activities. They said they were illegal as APMC had not secured the necessary permits to conduct mining operations and to export the nickel ore. Two people were hurt in a human barricade set up to try to stop the operations.

The mining company claimed its operations were lawful.