Bishop of Palawan: “No to the felling of 200,000 trees for mining”

The Apostolic Vicar of Puerto Princesa, Bishop Socrates Mesiona, has criticised the Manila government for issuing new deforestation permits to mining companies in what is one of the Philippines’ most biodiverse habitats. “This way of acting gives the impression that there are two kinds of laws in our country: one for the rich and powerful, and one for the poor.”

Manila (AsiaNews) - Bishop Socrates Mesiona of the Apostolic Vicariate of Puerto Princesa has criticised the government for issuing Special Tree Cutting and Excavation Permits (STCEP) linked to mining activities in Palawan, which will allow the felling of hundreds of thousands of trees.

The bishop stated that, based on public documents and available data, at least 218,854 trees are already covered by STCEP permits granted for mining projects in areas such as Aborlan, Brooke’s Point, Bataraza and areas linked to Mount Bulanjao.

“ “It is surprising that the agencies which are supposed to protect the environment are seen as strict in enforcing the law against ordinary people, yet appear lenient and generous towards large mining companies and powerful individuals,” wrote Bishop Mesiona in a pastoral letter. “This gives some the impression that there are two kinds of laws in our country: one for the rich and powerful, and one for the poor,” he added.

The prelate is calling for reforms to strengthen the protection of trees and forests. “It takes many years for a tree to grow,” he writes. “That is why it is painful to think that thousands of trees that have grown on our beautiful island over decades, and even centuries, can be felled in such a short time.”

The actual number of trees affected could be much higher than reported. The broader picture of the issue concerns not only the massive felling of trees, but also the responsible management of forest resources and concern for future generations.

Palawan, often described as the Philippines’ last ecological frontier, is home to some of the country’s most biodiverse forests, watersheds and areas.

Mesiona also called for the STCEPs to be made public and subject to scrutiny and oversight.

The bishop also called for a public dialogue with those who will be affected by the felling of the trees. “Trees do not merely ‘beautify’ the environment; they also keep the world alive, something we often overlook until they are damaged and disappear,” he emphasised.