THE clergy in two apostolic vicariates in Palawan are calling on the faithful to work together to protect the country’s “Last Ecological Frontier” against the harms caused by mining operations.
In a one-page joint statement, the Apostolic Vicariates of Puerto Princesa and Taytay said it is imperative for all concerned individuals to help maintain the beauty of Palawan by not allowing its continued destruction through mining.
“The beauty and natural resources of Palawan are exceptional. Thus, it is necessary to care for her so that we can ensure that the next generation will also benefit from it,” the joint statement said.
“If other areas in Mimaropa have exerted efforts to shut down mining operations in their respective places, isn’t it right that we work harder to protect our province being the Last Ecological Frontier?” it added.
“We only have one province. We should care and give importance to it,” added the statement signed by 77 clergymen, including Taytay Apostolic Vicar Bishop Broderick Pabillo and Puerto Princesa Apostolic Vicar Bishop Socrates Mesiona.
They said this is because caring for Mother Earth is one of the tasks given by the Lord to the people.
“Being a good steward of the Lord’s creation is a huge moral responsibility,” they said.
They said such actions are necessary for the sake of the indigenous people (IP) communities living in Palawan.
“Our brother IPs and ordinary farmers are the ones directly affected by mining. Their lives and livelihood are anchored on the environment. What will happen if it is destroyed?” stressed the two Apostolic Vicariates.
They strongly urged stakeholders to faithfully implement environmental laws, while promoting programs on agriculture and tourism.
They also called on the government to prohibit the expansion and extension of existing mining operations as well as opening new ones, while also requiring mining operators to rehabilitate affected areas.
