Calling mining as ‘destructive’
TACLOBAN CITY— In a pastoral letter ahead of the May midterm elections, the bishop of Borongan Diocese, Crispin Varquez, urged the faithful to vote for candidates who prioritize environmental protection and reject those supported by destructive mining interests, particularly on Homonhon Island.
Titled “Make a Firm Stand for the Country and the Environment”, the letter issued on Sunday, Jan.5, highlighted the urgent need to address the environmental degradation caused by mining operations in Eastern Samar.
Bishop Varquez expressed deep concern over the worsening state of the environment, emphasizing that the destructive activities due to mining activities are a stark reminder of the consequences of poor governance and misguided priorities.
“Environmental destruction has reached alarming levels. The ever-worsening conditions due to mining operations in Homonhon Island and Manicani Island in our Eastern Samar are a case in point,” he said.
Homonhon Island, a historically significant site where Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan first landed in 1521, has long been plagued by mining activities that have caused extensive environmental damage.
At present, there are four mining companies operating on the island, namely, Emir Mineral Resources, Techiron Resources Inc., Global Min-Met Resources, and Verrum Terra Geoscience, Inc., extracting nickel and chromite.
Another island, Manicani, also in Guiuan like in Homonhon, is also targeted for mining due to its rich in nickel deposits. Residents on the said island have also registered their opposition to any mining activities like that in Homonhon.
Local communities have repeatedly expressed their opposition to mining, citing the detrimental effects on their livelihoods and the island’s fragile ecosystem.
Bishop Varquez called on voters to reject candidates backed by mining interests, urging them to scrutinize the track records of those seeking public office. He stressed that political leaders must serve as stewards of creation, prioritizing sustainable development and the welfare of future generations.
“Let us not be duped by words,” the bishop stated. “We must be guided by a candidate’s track record or history in holding responsibilities.”
The pastoral letter also reminded voters to elect leaders who embody integrity, promote justice, and champion the common good. The bishop emphasized that politics should be viewed as a service to the people, not a means to amass wealth and power.
Apart from environmental concerns, the letter underscored the importance of avoiding political dynasties and supporting leaders who are willing to sacrifice for the country and the environment.
Bishop Varquez urged voters to choose candidates who inspire productivity and resiliency, particularly in ensuring food security and economic stability for calamity-prone areas like Eastern Samar.
The bishop’s message comes at a crucial time as the province continues to recover from the devastating impacts of natural calamities and climate change. He called on every citizen to take an active role in the upcoming elections by engaging in discussions, educating themselves on candidates, and encouraging others to do the same.
“We must stand united in our resolve to demand accountability, integrity, and genuine leadership,” he wrote. “It is time to reclaim our democracy and protect our planet not only for ourselves but also for the sake of future generations.”
The pastoral letter concluded with a prayer, invoking the intercession of Our Lady of the Assumption to uplift the people of Eastern Samar and guide them toward a brighter future.
JOEY A. GABIETA
