ATM Statement on Gov. Tamayo’s veto against the lifting of the ban on open-pit mining in South Cotab
Press Statement | Alyansa Tigil Mina | June 3, 2022
Alyansa Tigil Mina welcomes the rightful decision of Gov. Tamayo to veto Ordinance N0. 23, Series of 2022 enacted by the Sanggunian Panlalawigan of South Cotabato last May 16, 2022. Said ordinance amended the Provincial Environment Code of South Cotabato and lifted the ban on open-pit mining in the province.
We congratulate the people of South Cotabato, led by farmers and the Diocese of Marble for holding their ground and resisting the move of some of its government officials to overturn the progressive environmental laws in South Cotabato. This is a victory of the people of South Cotabato and is the correct move of Gov. Tamayo in protecting the right of his constituents to a safe ecology and promoting the comfort and welfare of a majority of the affected communities.
Our alliance will continue to monitor further development of this issue, as there is still a chance that the Sanggunian may override this veto. However, we will take this matter seriously and join the vigilance of local communities in South Cotabato to continue lobbying and putting pressure on the Sanggunian to not override the veto.
On June 5, 2022, we will celebrate World Environment Day and Pentecost Sunday. These are important reminders for everyone to be enlightened about our obligations to take care of the environment as this is closely intertwined with the enjoyment of our human rights.
We thank the people of South Cotabato, and the leadership of the affected communities and Bp. Allan Casicas for giving all us an important lesson and inspiration with their advocacy.
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