The Nueva Vizcaya court has cleared the way for Woggle Corporation to resume its government-approved exploration activities in Dupax del Norte, following a series of protests and allegations of illegal mining earlier this year, Manila Bulletin reports.
In an order issued by Judge Paul R. Attolba Jr. of Regional Trial Court Branch 30 in Bayombong, the court directed the Philippine National Police (PNP) to arrest anyone obstructing the exploration after protesters repeatedly blocked access to the site despite two previous temporary restraining orders (TROs). The ruling effectively enforces a ban on demonstrations that prevent Woggle’s operations across more than 3,000 hectares of land in five barangays.
The court said that continued defiance of its orders could lead to indirect contempt charges under the Rules of Court and Article 151 of the Revised Penal Code, which penalize resistance or disobedience to lawful authority.
In a statement, Woggle Corporation said it has resumed operations in full compliance with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB), and the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP). The company said it obtained all required permits, including a Certificate of Non-Overlap from the NCIP confirming that no recognized indigenous cultural communities or ancestral domains exist within the exploration area.
“Our work is governed by law, guided by science, and built on respect,” said Lorne Harvey, Woggle’s General Manager for Operations. “We remain committed to transparency and open dialogue,” he added.
Woggle said it also conducted community consultations with several barangays and local councils before resuming exploration, which aims to determine the site’s mineral potential and assess whether a long-term project could promote local economic development.
The latest developments come weeks after Senator Leila de Lima urged a House investigation into Woggle’s activities in Dupax del Norte, following complaints from residents and environmental groups who questioned the legality of the operations. Woggle has consistently maintained that its activities are lawful and supported by valid government permits.
The situation in Nueva Vizcaya spotlights the ongoing tension between mining firms seeking to expand operations and local groups pushing for environmental protection as well as community consultation.
What steps do you think can help ensure that mining exploration in areas like Nueva Vizcaya remains transparent, lawful, and respectful of local communities?
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