Mamamayang Liberal Party-list Representative Leila de Lima has filed a resolution urging the House of Representatives to investigate the environmental and social effects of mining operations in Aroroy, Masbate.
Through House Resolution No. 927, De Lima called for a probe into reported risks to public health, livelihoods, and the environment, as well as regulatory gaps in the operations of Filminera Resources Corporation, B2Gold, and the Philippine Gold Processing and Refining Corporation.
The resolution noted that while mining activities in Aroroy have contributed to jobs, skills development, and maintained a recognized safety record, they have also drawn recurring complaints from residents. These include blasting incidents, harmful emissions, and damage to crops and structures.
“Anupaman ang mga benepisyong nahahatid ng pagmimina, hindi dahilan ito para ipagwalang bahala ang mga panganib na dala nito sa kalikasan, kabuhayan, kalusugan at kaligtasan ng ating mga kababayan,” De Lima said.
“Hindi ito dapat isantabi o ipagpabukas dahil sa isang iglap, ang seryosong pinsala na maaaring idulot, lalo na ng ilegal na pagmimina, ay pipinsala sa maraming komunidad at kikitil ng maraming buhay.”
De Lima cited complaints of water contamination that allegedly led to fish kills and marine degradation, along with deforestation, soil erosion, and habitat destruction contributing to biodiversity loss.
She stressed that the protection of the environment, livelihoods, and welfare of communities in Aroroy must be prioritized and urgently addressed.
The lawmaker also pointed to a September 2025 operation where authorities arrested nine Chinese nationals in Barangays Cabangcalan and Pangle for alleged involvement in illegal mining, with heavy equipment seized during the raid.