Mindoro Island Faces Mining Ban Proposal
Two congressmen from Oriental Mindoro are advocating for stronger measures to prevent companies from conducting large-scale mining on Mindoro Island. The exact four-word keyphrase “Mindoro Island no mining” highlights the core of their legislative efforts.
One representative from the first district plans to refile House Bill 3891, which he initially introduced in 2022. This bill aims to declare the entire Mindoro Island a no-mining zone. Meanwhile, the second district’s representative confirmed that House Bill 6219, filed in late 2022, remains pending in Congress. These bills collectively seek to halt mining activities, including block sand mining, armor rock extraction, and other mineral extractions across both Oriental and Occidental Mindoro.
Legislative Efforts to Protect Mindoro Island
The no-mining stance embodied in these bills is designed to safeguard the island’s environment and promote sustainable development. Local officials and lawmakers emphasize the importance of preserving Mindoro’s natural resources for future generations.
Oriental Mindoro’s governor has also called on the two congressmen to sponsor a bill that would declare Mount Halcon a national park under the National Integrated Protected Areas System (NIPAS). Known as the highest peak in Mindoro at 8,583 feet, Mount Halcon hosts a rich variety of wildlife, including critically endangered species such as the Tamaraw, rare birds, and unique plant life.
Calls for National Park and Watershed Protection
The governor has requested the provincial board to pass a resolution urging lawmakers to protect both Mount Halcon and the Aglubang and Ibulo Rivers. These rivers, originating from the mountain’s dense forests, are vital for agriculture and local communities’ water needs.
According to local officials, no existing law currently safeguards Mount Halcon or these rivers. This lack of protection exposes the area to environmental risks like deforestation, unregulated development, mining, and pollution. Establishing a national park and watershed reservations under NIPAS would help address these threats and preserve the island’s ecological integrity.
Environmental Significance of Mindoro Island No Mining
Protecting Mindoro Island from mining is not only about conserving nature but also about securing the livelihoods of its residents. Sustainable development efforts, supported by these legislative measures, aim to balance economic growth with environmental stewardship.
Sources familiar with the matter note that the combined efforts of local government officials and legislators underscore a growing commitment to environmental protection. The push for the “Mindoro Island no mining” policy reflects a broader movement to preserve the island’s unique biodiversity and natural resources for the well-being of current and future generations.
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