We, the residents of Rio Tuba, Palawan, stand united in opposition to the proposed 50-year mining moratorium that threatens to end our community’s livelihood, economic stability, and future development.

For decades, responsible mining has been the backbone of our local economy, providing countless decent jobs, supporting small businesses, and driving infrastructural progress. The mining industry has uplifted families, sustained livelihoods, and significantly contributed to both local and national economic growth. However, this progress is now at risk due to the impending ban on mining in Palawan.

According to the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB), the mining industry contributed ₱170.1 billion to the Philippines’ GDP in 2023, accounting for 0.70% of the total GDP. The industry also employed 7,005 workers in 2023, with an average annual compensation of ₱26,262.4 per employee.

Mining companies in the Philippines have also committed to environmental sustainability through reforestation and rehabilitation programs. As of May 2020, the Philippine mining industry had planted 37 million seedlings over 29,000 hectares, achieving an impressive 92% survival rate(Chamber of Mines of the Philippines).

The 50-year moratorium would strip us of these benefits, leaving countless families jobless and hindering our community’s growth and development. Is it just to deny an entire community the opportunity to build a better future? Is it fair to take away the livelihoods of thousands who depend on this industry?

Beyond direct employment, mining supports local businesses, including shops, transport services, and small-scale enterprises that rely on mining workers as their primary customers, education and healthcare services indirectly funded by the economic activity generated by mining. 

With the ban being put in place, many of these businesses will face closure or downsizing, impacting not just miners but also countless others who depend on the industry for survival. The long-term effect will be devastating, limiting opportunities for the younger generation and forcing many to seek employment elsewhere.

We understand the need to protect Palawan’s natural beauty, but this should not come at the cost of our community’s well-being.

Responsible mining is possible. 

Companies like Rio Tuba Nickel Mining Corporation (RTNMC) have already demonstrated that mining and environmental conservation can coexist through strict environmental policies ensuring sustainable operations, progressive rehabilitation and reforestation efforts to restore mined areas, biodiversity conservation programs to protect local ecosystems. 

Instead of an outright ban, stricter regulations and oversight should be implemented to ensure that mining remains sustainable and environmentally responsible—rather than completely shutting down an industry that has proven to uplift communities while also protecting nature.

OUR CALL TO ACTION

We urge the government to reconsider the 50-year mining moratorium and acknowledge the positive impact that responsible mining brings to Palawan. Let’s promote sustainable mining practices rather than eliminate an industry that has been vital to our economic and social progress.

Together, let's urge our government to reconsider this decision. To acknowledge the good that responsible mining, like RTNMC brings to Palawan. Let's share how responsible mining can coexist together with environmental conservation. Add your voice to ours by signing this petition as we stand against the 50-year moratorium on mining.