SC issues writ of kalikasan vs. DENR, MGB, mining firm

The Supreme Court has issued a writ of kalikasan against the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB), and a mining firm over mining operations in Sibuyan Island.

In a resolution dated June 13, the high court ordered the DENR, MGB, and Altai Philippines Mining Corporation (APMC) to file their comment within 10 days after the service of the writs.

Meanwhile, the court denied the petitioners’ prayer for temporary environmental protection order. It also referred the case to the Court of Appeals.

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla previously said a writ of a kalikasan is a special civil action taken to enjoin individuals to repair the environment.

In February, the DENR ordered a temporary halt to the APMC’s operations after it allegedly violated the implementing rules and regulations of the Water Code of the Philippines.

The DENR alleged that APMC did not have a foreshore lease agreement for a pier, had built a causeway without securing an Environmental Compliance Certificate, and had cut down trees without a permit.

For its part, the AMPC said they were deeply saddened by the recent hostilities in the vicinity of their mining exploration operations in Sibuyan Island.

Rodne Galicia, executive director of the environmental group Living Laudato Si, posted the SC notice on his Facebook page. The SC has confirmed the notice.

“The issuance of the Writ of Kalikasan is a significant step to secure and protect one of the country’s last ecological frontier, Sibuyan Island, and its communities,” Galicia said.

“We appeal to all researchers and scientists all over the country and the world who studied the unique geology and biodiversity of our island, please continue sending your testimonies,” he added.

GMA News Online has already reached out to DENR for its comment, but it has yet to respond as of posting time. —KBK, GMA Integrated News