Candlelight Vigil: Remembering the Mining Act of 1995
PUERTO PRINCESA – March 10, 2013 marked the 18-year anniversary of the passage of the national Mining Act, or RA 7942, enacted on March 4, 1995.
Anti-mining activists, support groups, and allies rallied together and held separate site actions across the Philippines – from Cagayan province to Surigao del Sur –to mourn the impact of large-scale mining and to condemn the decision of national agencies who allow the aggressive promotion of the mining industry.
On March 9, 2013 in Puerto Princesa, Palawan, over 200 participants gathered in solidarity for a candle-light vigil and mass prayer led by Bishop Pedro Arigo. This successful local action was hosted by the “Save Palawan” Movement; the Palawan NGO Network, Inc. (PNNI); and the Justice for Doc Gerry Movement.
Many organizations view the Mining Act as acquiescing to the demands of international financial institutions such as the World Bank, to liberalize the mining industry of the country.
(Photos courtesy of Beth Maclang and Palawan NGO Network, Inc.)