This morning, we resume our inquiry on the alleged bypass of local government units in the issuance of mining exploration permit in Dupax del Norte, Nueva Vizcaya, as brought up by our colleague, Sen. Erwin Tulfo, in a privilege speech last February 2, 2026.
During our previous meeting last February 23, barangay officials testified that there was no proper consultation with the affected localities prior to the permit application and before proceeding with the exploration activities. There was also no endorsement issued by the LGU and the residents in favor of the project. Mayroon lang naging “meeting” at “presentation” mula sa Woggle, pero walang nangyaring maayos at lehitimong konsultasyon sang-ayon sa batas, at lalong walang pagsang-ayon mula sa mga taga-Dupax. Wala ring business permit na nakuha at in-apply ang Woggle.
I was informed that the representative of the Woggle Corporation confirmed his attendance in today’s meeting. Sana po ay marinig natin ang kanilang panig, at maliwanagan tayo sa maraming isyu, lalo na kung saan ang naging mga pagkukulang ng awtoridad at ng kumpanya, na humantong sa unti-unting pagkasira ng bundok at nagdulot ng masamang epekto sa kabuhayan ng ating mga kababayang magsasaka.
We also learned that while the local government followed the required posting and publication of the application, it appears that these are not enough to properly disseminate the information to the public. We need to institute better and clearer mechanisms to determine the genuine sentiment of the people on proposed projects.
This representation is also alarmed by the fact how Nueva Vizcaya, particularly the municipality of Dupax del Norte, part of a protected area, forest reserve, and considered as a watershed haven for the region, and a host of the national greening program, can still be a site for mining exploration and destructive mining operations.
Lastly, we appreciate the meaningful insights from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) on how to overcome the existing operational and legal challenges they are facing in carrying out their mandates, and the possible amendments to the Mining Law.