Mining Opposition in Antique Grows as Senator Warns of Environmental Risks

By Rjay Zuriaga Castor

Senator Loren Legarda has voiced her strong opposition to proposed mining activities in Antique, as the Mines and Geosciences Bureau Western Visayas (MGB-6) considers designating four upland towns as mineral reservations.

Legarda, a United Nations Environment Programme Laureate, warned that mining poses significant risks to Antique’s cultural heritage, sustainable livelihoods, natural resources, and public health.

“Antique’s true wealth lies in its people, culture, and environment. Mining activities will disrupt livelihoods, destroy natural habitats, and risk the cultural legacy that Antiqueños have preserved for generations,” she said.

The MGB-6 is proposing a mineral reservation covering the mountainous areas of Patnongon, San Remigio, Valderrama, and Sibalom, citing deposits of copper, gold, chromite, and silver.

Legarda argued that mining in these regions could irreparably damage ecosystems and undermine industries vital to the province’s economy, such as agriculture, fisheries, and eco-tourism.

“Our economy thrives on agriculture, fisheries, and eco-tourism—industries that are sustainable and rooted in our culture and identity as Antiqueños,” she emphasized.

She stressed that Antique does not need mining to drive growth and instead should focus on enhancing local industries to create jobs and improve livelihoods without endangering the environment.

“Mining does not represent progress. It represents a short-sighted gamble that sacrifices the future of our communities for temporary gains. We must choose sustainable development that uplifts livelihoods, protects our heritage, and ensures a thriving future for Antiqueños,” she added.

Legarda also pointed to recent tragedies caused by soil erosion and landslides due to over-quarrying, which have resulted in the loss of lives, displacement of families, and destruction of farmlands.

She cautioned that increased mining activities in upland areas would exacerbate deforestation and soil degradation, making communities more vulnerable to environmental disasters.

The senator noted that Antique is home to two major protected areas under Republic Act No. 11038, or the Expanded National Integrated Protected Areas System (E-NIPAS) Act of 2018, which she authored.

The Northwest Panay Peninsula Natural Park (NWPPNP) spans approximately 12,000 hectares, covering five municipalities: Malay, Buruanga, and Nabas in Aklan; and Libertad and Pandan in Antique.

Meanwhile, the Sibalom Natural Park (SNP), covering over 6,800 hectares of mountainous and heavily forested terrain in Sibalom—one of the towns proposed for mineral reservation—is home to rare species of flora and fauna. It also includes rivers vital for irrigation and domestic use in nearby towns.

Legarda reiterated her call for sustainable development, emphasizing that preserving Antique’s environment and heritage is essential for its long-term prosperity and resilience.