Leyte Provincial Board Urges Immediate Suspension of Black Sand Mining in MacArthur
In a significant move, at least two members of the Leyte Provincial Board confirmed on Sunday, February 15, 2026, that the board has officially passed a resolution calling for a temporary halt to black sand mining operations in MacArthur. The resolution specifically requests concerned National Government agencies and the MacArthur Municipal Council to suspend all mining activities while a thorough compliance review is conducted.
Resolution Details and Investigation Mandate
During the board's session on February 11, members formally requested the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB), the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), and the MacArthur Municipal Council to implement a temporary suspension of mining operations. This suspension is intended to allow for a comprehensive investigation into the matter. A Provincial Board member revealed that the committees involved have been tasked with examining a written protest that has been submitted regarding the mining activities.
The suspension request is currently pending as the compliance review gets underway. This step underscores the board's commitment to ensuring that all environmental and regulatory standards are met before any further mining proceeds.
Community Response and Advocacy Efforts
In response to the Leyte Provincial Government's action, Bernardita Morcilla, secretary general of Unlad and a resident directly affected by the mining, expressed heartfelt gratitude. She stated in the local language, "Nagpapasalamat kami nga mga taga-MacArthur han iyo pamati han amon hangyo ha iyo." Morcilla added, "Pinamatian niyo an amon araba ug iyo gin-aksiyonan. Taos-puso kaming nagpapasalamat sa inyong lahat na officers sa napakabilis ninyong aksyon," which translates to appreciation for the board listening to their pleas and taking swift action.
Jesus Cabias Jr., spokesperson for concerned residents of MacArthur who have led human barricades against the mining, also thanked the Leyte board members and the media for closely monitoring developments in the town. This community support highlights the widespread local opposition to the mining operations.
Broader Opposition and Previous Petitions
Various advocacy groups have been actively opposing the mining activities for some time. Earlier, they wrote an open letter to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., urging him to issue an executive order against mining in MacArthur. Additionally, these groups submitted petitions to the Provincial Board, requesting an investigation into the arrival of a massive cutter suction dredger allegedly operated by MacArthur Iron Sand Project Corp. (MIPC).
The opposition is not limited to MacArthur alone. Nearby towns, including Mayorga and Abuyog, have also voiced their strong opposition to the mining operations in their respective areas, indicating a regional concern over the environmental and social impacts of black sand mining.
This collective action by the Leyte Provincial Board, supported by local residents and advocacy groups, marks a critical moment in the ongoing debate over mining practices in the region, emphasizing the need for stringent compliance and community welfare.
