In a resolute stance against the perils of unsustainable mining practices, the Philippine Alliance of Human Rights Advocates (PAHRA) joined forces with Alyansa Tigil Mina (ATM) during the recently concluded Mining Hell Week. The week-long event, organized by ATM, aimed to raise awareness and mobilize efforts to address the adverse impacts of mining activities on both society and the environment.


Against the backdrop of significant socio-political and environmental challenges, ATM’s Mining Hell Week served as a platform to amplify the voices of mining-affected communities and advocate for sustainable alternatives to extractive industries.


The event coincided with the 29th Anniversary of the enactment of the Mining Act of 1995 (RA 7942), a legislative milestone that, over almost three decades, failed to deliver on promises of development from large-scale mining. Despite contributing a mere 1-2% to the country’s gross domestic product, the mining industry has inflicted grave environmental and social consequences, surpassing its meager economic benefits.


The Philippines, touted as the deadliest place for environmental defenders in Asia, has witnessed a surge in violence against anti-mining advocates, compounded by the looming threat of Charter Change (ChaCha). Spearheaded by House Speaker Romualdez, a prominent figure in the mining industry, ChaCha poses risks of further exploitation of natural resources and consolidation of power.


PAHRA’s participation in Mining Hell Week underscored its commitment to human rights and environmental advocacy, aligning with ATM’s mission to halt destructive mining practices and oppose ChaCha. The week’s activities included raising awareness about the expansion of mining empires, generating public support for mining-affected communities, and backing local struggles against mining and other forms of development aggression.


As March also marked Women’s Month, ATM celebrated in solidarity with the women’s movement, emphasizing the intersectionality of environmental and gender justice. Activities included coordinated efforts with women’s rights advocates to address food security and mining issues.


Moreover, the event shed light on ongoing legislative challenges, such as the stalling of alternative minerals management bills in Congress and the watering down of proposed laws aimed at enhancing fiscal regimes for the mining industry.


Moving forward, PAHRA and ATM remain steadfast in their pursuit of sustainable mining practices, prioritizing the welfare of communities and the preservation of the environment. By uniting forces and mobilizing collective action, they aim to exert pressure on government officials to heed the calls for responsible resource management and social justice.