The Supreme Court (SC) has issued a Writ of Kalikasan against mining company Altai Philippines Mining Corporation (APMC) over the illegal mining activities it conducted in Sibuyan Island, Romblon in early February.
The higher court also issued the writ against the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MBG) that were included in the petition filed by Sibuyan residents Veronica Batan, Elmor Borda, and Alfredo Pascual.
The writ of kalikasan is a legal remedy that protects a natural or juridical person's right to a balanced and healthful ecology, according to the SC.
In a notice dated June 13 but released on Sunday, the higher court gave DENR, MBG, and APMC 10 days to give a verified comment on the petition.
It also ordered that the case be referred to the Court of Appeals (CA) "for further reception of evidence pursuant to A.M. No. 09-6-8-SC."
However, the SC denied the petition's request for the issuance of an ex-parte Temporary Environmental Protection Order against DENR, MBG, and APMC.
On February 6, Sibuyan residents filed the petition after tension escalated between them and local authorities due to APMC's illegal mining of nickel ores in the area.
The residents claimed that the mining company failed to secure the necessary permits and licenses to operate, but the company denied the accusation.
The DENR then issued an order directing the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) to file complaints against APMC for illegally cutting trees in Sibuyan Island. It also commanded the company to cease and desist its operations.
