PETITION TO PROTECT GIBUSONG ISLAND FROM MINING
Gibusong Island, located in the Dinagat Islands of the Philippines, is not just a place on the map—it is our home, a treasure of natural beauty, and a haven of biodiversity that we have cherished for generations. Our island is known for its pristine beaches, lush forests, and rich marine life. It is a paradise that many of us grew up on, and we dream of passing down its beauty and resources to future generations.

However, this dream faces a grave threat. A proposed mining project seeks to exploit the island’s rich mineral resources, putting our environment, culture, and way of life at risk. Mining can cause the destruction of natural landscapes, degradation of forests, pollution of air and water, and increased sedimentation that can harm marine ecosystems and the communities that depend on them.

We have already seen the consequences of mining in nearby islands, including Homonhon Island. Homonhon, a neighboring island of Gibusong, has experienced the impacts and environmental pressures associated with mining activities. The degradation of forests and landscapes in mining areas serves as a warning of what could happen to other fragile island ecosystems if mining continues without adequate protection and accountability. The situation in Homonhon reminds us that once forests, watersheds, coastlines, and other natural resources are severely damaged, restoring them can be extremely difficult.

We have also learned from numerous other mining-related environmental disasters in the Philippines and around the world. In 2012, a mine waste spill in Benguet contaminated river systems and affected communities that depended on them for their livelihoods. The Philippine Department of Environment and Natural Resources has also recognized the threats that mining and other extractive activities can pose to forests and biodiversity.

Gibusong Island is a small and fragile ecosystem. Its forests, coastal areas, waters, and marine resources are interconnected, and damage to one part of the island can have consequences for the entire community. 

The people of Gibusong Island are determined to protect their heritage and ensure that this fragile ecosystem remains vibrant. Our call is to halt any mining operations on Gibusong Island and to protect the island from activities that could permanently damage its environment and communities. We believe that sustainable tourism, responsible fisheries, agriculture, and other environmentally friendly livelihoods can provide economic opportunities while preserving the island for future generations.

Protecting Gibusong Island is not simply about opposing development. It is about pursuing development that does not sacrifice the very environment and resources that sustain its people.

We invite everyone who cares about environmental preservation, the rights and welfare of local communities, and sustainable development to join us in protecting Gibusong Island. Let us stand together against destructive mining practices and advocate for a future where economic progress and environmental protection go hand in hand.

Please sign this petition and help us safeguard the beauty, biodiversity, and natural resources of Gibusong Island—for today, and for the generations yet to come.

IPAMANA, HUWAG IPAMINA!
#NoToMiningInGibusongIsland