We, the people of Ilocos Norte—fisherfolk, farmers, national minorities, and environmental defenders—strongly oppose the construction of the 2,900 MW BuhaWind Energy Project and other destructive renewable energy projects in our province.

While renewable energy is often presented as a clean and sustainable alternative, these projects are being implemented at the expense of our livelihoods and environment. The BuhaWind Energy Project, spanning the coastal waters of Pasuquin, Burgos, Bangui, and Pagudpud, will disrupt marine biodiversity and will threaten the livelihood of 6,339 fisherfolks along the said municipalities; the unregistered fisherfolks are not included here yet. (data from Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), February 2025) 

Studies have shown that offshore wind farms, especially those considered
large-scale, can generate underwater noise pollution, alter natural aquatic habitats, and interfere with fish populations, making it harder for small-scale fishers to sustain their way of life. In other countries, offshore wind farms have also led to the restriction of fishing activities in surrounding waters, further limiting access to essential fishing grounds; they are no longer allowed to sail within the perimeter of the wind turbines from the start of construction until they finish.

Ilocos Norte has long been a hub for renewable energy, yet its people do not reap the benefits. The electricity generated by wind and solar farms is fed into the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) and sold in the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM), benefiting large corporations rather than the Ilocano people. Despite the abundance of renewable energy projects in the province, high electricity rates and power interruptions remain a burden for local households.

The government must prioritize the well-being of its people over profit-driven projects. Instead of destroying marine ecosystems and affecting the livelihood of thousands of fisherfolks, it should focus on providing sustainable support for coastal communities—ensuring access to modern fishing equipment and programs that genuinely uplift their livelihoods. True development should serve the people, not corporate interests.

We call on the government and concerned agencies to:

1. Oppose the BuhaWind Energy Project and any similar large-scale projects that threaten the livelihood and the environment. Instead, push for a comprehensive, community-led, non-intrusive renewable energy project that is integrated into the community’s public and private structures (e.g. solar panels in waiting sheds, public parks, parking areas, etc.).

2. Conduct transparent consultations with affected communities and ensure that development projects prioritize the welfare of local residents.

3. Strengthen support for fisherfolk by providing resources, subsidies, and
sustainable fishing programs instead of allowing destructive energy projects that endanger their future.

4. Protect marine biodiversity and uphold environmental safeguards to
prevent irreversible damage to coastal ecosystems.

We stand firm in our demand to oppose the BuhaWind Energy Project. Development must not come at the cost of the people’s livelihood and the environment. 

We will not allow our province to be sacrificed for corporate gain.

Sign this petition to defend Ilocos Norte’s people and natural resources!