Ipilan Nickel secures TRO vs protestors in mine haul roads.

Ipilan Nickel Corp., an affiliate of Global Ferronickel Holdings Inc. (FNI), has secured a temporary restraining order against protesters from obstructing its mining operations.

A TRO against protesters blocking the mine haul roads of INC was issued by the Brooke’s Point Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 165. Protesters have said to disrupt the company’s mining operations in the Municipality of Brooke’s Point, Palawan.

The order prohibits protesters from stopping, apprehending, searching, or approaching in all vehicles of individuals making use of the access roads, including main whole roads, barangay roads parallel to the main whole road, and access roads in Sitio Panay going in and out of the INC mine site.

“As a good corporate citizen, we are complying with legal procedures and exploring all lawful and peaceful options against the threats and intimidation tactics used by propagandists and saboteurs. INC continues to remain dedicated to fostering positive and productive relationships with all of its stakeholders,” INC resident manager Alex Arabis said in a statement.

Earlier this month, INC filed a complaint to the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) for the immediate release of its business permit.

The Sangguniang Bayan of Brooke’s Point earlier issued a resolution following claims that the alleged renewable of the mineral production sharing agreement (MPSA) in 2018 was done without the endorsement of the municipality and that it is operating without a Certificate Precondition from the National Commission of Indigenous Peoples (NCIP).

The Mines and Geosciences Bureau, however, said that INC can legally operate its mining project as the MPSA with the government remains in force and is valid until April 10, 2025.

The Ipilan nickel project is a joint project between INC and the government and is critical in achieving sustainable economic recovery and genuine environmental protection.