Fisherfolk and environmental defenders marched in Vigan City, Ilocos Sur on December 13 to demand accountability from Taiwan-based company Isla Verde Mining and Development Corp. (IVMDC) for its environmentally destructive dredging operation. While they acknowledge the temporarily halting of its operations, the corporation must be held accountable, and justice must be given to the affected people and the environment.
The company’s dredging was temporarily stopped in November following the strong and persistent opposition of Santa and Caoayan town residents. Nevertheless, the destructive and irreversible damage to marine resources and coastal areas continues to cripple the livelihoods of communities.
The dredging affected 9,536 residents from nine barangays in Santa and Caoayan. Loud noises and continuous shaking of structures generated by the operation caused them sleepless nights.
It disturbed the fish, contaminated the ocean and damaged other marine life, which resulted in reduced catch. Fisherfolks used to sell ₱1,000 worth of fish, they now catch hardly enough for their own consumption.
Led by the Defend Ilocos Sur Network, the groups reiterated their appeal to the local government. Members of the Pambansang Lakas ng Kilusang Mamamalakaya ng Pilipinas (Pamalakaya) also joined their mobilization.
“We call for justice in the form of fair compensation and rehabilitation of the damaged fishing grounds. We also demand accountability from government officials and agencies that permitted the destructive activity,” Pamalakaya vice chairperson Ronnel Arambulo said.
Before the protest, in cooperation with other organizations and schools, the Defend Ilocos Sur Network launched the Ilocos Sur People’s Environmental Summit on the same day. Summit participants gathered at Caritas Nueva Segovia, Vigan City.
The discussion tackled interconnected issues of human rights, corruption, and environmental destruction. A photo exhibit showing the environmental damage and the people’s struggles was also displayed at the gathering. According to the group, the event also served to mark the International Human Rights Day observed on December 10.
On December 9, the province’s several residents affected by dredging went to the House of Representatives in Quezon City. With Pamalakaya and the Makabayan Bloc, they submitted a resolution to the House of Representatives calling for an investigation into the negative impacts of IVMDC’s quarrying on livelihood and the environment.
