Bishop seeks moratorium on Catanduanes projects

Virac Bishop Luisito Occiano has urged the government to impose a moratorium on proposed and ongoing mining activities in Catanduanes and investigate mining-related deaths, warning that environmental damage must never come at the expense of human lives.

“We cannot support destructive mining that puts human life, the common good, and the integrity of creation at serious and unacceptable risk,” Occiano said in a pastoral statement.

The bishop echoed the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines’ (CBCP) call for a mining moratorium, saying operations that pose serious risks to the environment and public safety should be halted pending independent assessments, transparent public consultations and full compliance with the law.

“In unity with the CBCP, we call for a moratorium on all proposed and ongoing mining activities in Catanduanes that pose serious risks to environment and public safety, until there is independent assessment, transparent public consultation, and full legal compliance,” he said.

Occiano added that once serious harm and violations are established, the government must suspend or stop mining operations in accordance with the law.

He expressed concern over a proposed coal mining project covering five hectares in the island province, stressing that the area’s size does not necessarily determine the extent of environmental damage.

“Mining damage is not measured by size alone,” the bishop said.

“Mining, if poorly assessed and poorly regulated, can poison water, destroy farmlands, cause erosion, floods and landslides, and ruin habitats,” he warned, adding that the consequences extend beyond the immediate mining site.

Occiano also called on authorities to investigate mining-related deaths and ensure the protection of workers.

“We call for protection of miners and for decent, sustainable livelihoods for all,” he said.

The bishop acknowledged that poverty drives some people to turn to mining but stressed that economic hardship should not justify activities that threaten human life and dignity.

While the Church does not condemn people who resort to mining out of necessity, he said it cannot accept mining, whether legal or illegal, that endangers communities.

“Human life must never be the price of profit,” Occiano stressed.

He urged mining proponents to prioritize the common good, respect community rights and recognize the environmental limits of the island province.

“Catanduanes is small on the map, but precious to God,” he said.

“Our mountains, rivers, forests, farms and seas are not commodities to exploit,” he added.

Occiano also urged the public to remain vigilant, informed and united in protecting the province.

“Seek truth peacefully and report abuses properly,” he said.