The Supreme Court (SC) has issued a writ of kalikasan against the Altai Philippines Mining Corporation, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), and the Mines and Geosciences Bureau following a petition to protect Sibuyan Island in Romblon’s ecosystem.
The writ of kalilkasan is a legal move for persons or organizations whose constitutional right to a balanced and healthful ecology is violated or threatened.
SC has referred the case to the Court of Appeals for “further reception of evidence.”
The high court, however, denied the community’s request for a temporary environmental protection order.
Residents of Sibuyan Island filed a petition before the Supreme Court in February, seeking to “enjoin the ongoing environmental destruction of Sibuyan Island and the attempt to illegally export nickel ore for shipment to Hong Kong, China, sans the requisite permits and public consultations.”
In the same month, the DENR suspended Altai mining’s exploration activities in the area following alleged violations in environmental regulations.
SC has required the petitioners to respond to the petition within 10 days after the service of writs.
