NVPPO denies mining bias

NUEVA VIZCAYA — The Nueva Vizcaya Police Provincial Office (NVPPO) has stressed its neutrality in mining conflicts, saying police deployments are intended only to maintain peace and protect public safety.

The statement came in response to concerns raised by environmental and indigenous groups during a recent mobilization in front of Camp Crame in Quezon City.

The groups, including the Kasibu Intertribal Response for Ecological Development, Katribu Kalipunan ng Katutubong Mamayan ng Pilipinas and Kalikasan, have accused police of harassing residents opposed to mining activities.

The NVPPO said its personnel respect the role of community advocates in raising grievances and protecting natural resources.

The police command also addressed claims that charges of coercion, resistance to authority and cyberlibel were filed to harass environmental defenders.

The NVPPO said recent arrests and subsequent court filings were based on specific incidents involving the obstruction of a municipal road and were not related to opposition to mining activities.

Police officials said all legal actions were undertaken in accordance with due process and based on documented facts.

To help ease tensions, the provincial police office invited civil society leaders, indigenous representatives and environmental groups to participate in direct discussions to address their concerns and promote peace and order in local communities.