MANILA — Environmental and Indigenous Peoples’ groups staged a protest at the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) Central Office in Quezon City on February 12, demanding the full cancellation of Woggle Mining Corporation’s exploration permit in Dupax del Norte, Nueva Vizcaya.

“The temporary suspension is not justice—it’s the bare minimum. As long as Woggle Mining’s permit exists, Dupax del Norte remains vulnerable to continued plunder and harassment,” said Kalikasan People’s Network for the Environment (KPNE) Spokesperson Jonila Castro in a statement.

Indigenous leaders said suspension only pacifies community resistance.

“It is not a real solution. What authorities should act on immediately is the cancellation,” Kakay Tolentino, National Coordinator of BAI Indigenous Women’s Network, told Bulatlat.

In a symbolic action, protesters tore printed logos of MGB, DENR, and Woggle Mining, sealing their call to end what they described as environmental plunder and harassment in Nueva Vizcaya.

Simultaneous actions were also held in Bayombong, where residents of Brgy. Bitnong called for the permanent revocation of the permit and the dismissal of indirect contempt charges filed against anti-mining protesters.

Text and photos by Chantal Eco