Case against Catholic bishop on mining issue in Nueva Vizcaya dismissed

KASIBU, Nueva Vizcaya — Bishop Jose Elmer Mangalinao of the Catholic Diocese of Kasibu stated that the dismissal of the civil case filed against him, another priest and some individuals is a victory for truth, justice, and the collective efforts of communities standing up to protect their land, water, and future generations. 

A local court in Kasibu, Nueva Vizcaya, has dismissed a civil case for forcible entry against Mangalinao, Father Christian Dumangeng, and several other environmental advocates and community members. The case was filed on 16 June, by Rosario K. Camma, acting in his personal capacity and as the overall chieftain of the Bugkalot/Ilongot Indigenous Peoples. 

The lawsuit sought a preliminary injunction to dismantle barricades set up within the Bugkalot/Ilongot ancestral domain to oppose local mining exploration.

The Municipal Trial Court of Kasibu, Nueva Vizcaya ruled to deny the injunction and dismiss the action because the plaintiff failed to establish a clear legal right to the requested relief. The court declared that it lacked proper jurisdiction over the matter. The defendants listed alongside Bishop Mangalinao included Tommy Pitas, Manny Ticawa, Joel Ket-el, Martin Pitas, Julie Dugay, Lei Jin Dugay, Florentino Daynos, and other individuals involved in maintaining the community barricades.

Mangalinao expressed gratitude to their supporters and pro bono legal team, emphasizing that defending watersheds and livelihoods is a shared moral responsibility rather than a crime.