Patnongon: The municipality of Patnongon has expressed opposition to the proposed mineral reservation, covering 3,715 hectares, in several towns of Antique province. The provincial board received a copy of the resolution passed by the Sangguniang Bayan of Patnongon on Feb. 10 during its regular session on Monday.

According to Philippines News Agency, the resolution stated that the proposed mineral reserve threatens the integrity of the Patnongon and Sibalom River Watershed, a crucial water source for several municipalities, as well as vital support for Antique’s agricultural sector. The resolution emphasized that the large-scale mining operations pose heightened risks of landslides and flash floods, particularly in this mountainous region, as evidenced by past disasters including typhoons Paeng and Frank, which increase the vulnerability of downstream communities.

The resolution further added that the zoning ordinance of Patnongon prohibits mining activities within its jurisdiction. Board Member Pio Jessielito Sumande Sr., chair of the Committee on Environment at the provincial board, remarked that the resolution is a strong manifestation of their desire to protect the environment. Sumande exposed the proposed mineral reservation of the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) in Patnongon, Sibalom, and San Remigio towns through his resolution, calling for a public hearing during the last week of January.

‘I know that the proposed mineral reservation is a big challenge for our leaders, but we have to preserve our environment,’ Sumande said. Other than Patnongon, the town of Sibalom already passed a resolution on Feb. 5 opposing the plan. Sumande mentioned that they plan to pass an ordinance prohibiting or regulating mining activities in Antique province. ‘We still have about six months to serve as provincial board, so we hope we could have the ordinance passed before our term ends,’ he added.