Stories from the Mines... of struggle, sisterhood and solidarity

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Stories of women whose lives have been affected by mining, and in one way or the other struggled against it. October 2012

Transcript

STORIESfrom the

MINES...of struggle,

sisterhood & solidarity

Photo by PhilRights

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STORIESfrom the

MINES...of struggle,

sisterhood & solidarity

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ALYANSA TIGIL MINAc/o Haribon Foundation2/F Santos and Sons Building#973 Aurora Blvd. corner Dapdap St.,Cubao, Quezon CityTel: +63 (02) 434-46-42Tele Fax: +63 (02) 434-46-92www.alyansatigilmina.net

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Judy A. PasimioFarah Sevilla, En.PAmleth Lyn Bumanglag

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Edel Garingan

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Ryan G. Palacolrgpalacol@yahoo.com

Printed in the Philippines October 2012

Table of ContentsAcknowledgmentIntroduction

CHAPTER 1

For the Beauty of BugueyRei Panaligan

Going Against the TideJoan Masarate

BelievingEmiellou S. Pan

Manang TinaVernie Yocogan-Diano

A Struggle to Reclaim the Forest & Mountains’ BeautyAngie Adviento

Mother’s HomeRico Mallillin

Ka Badang: Hungry for JusticeJudy A. Pasimio

What’s Serving in Pearl’s Cafe?Edel S. Garingan

Story of ValorJenny Van Fiestada

A Beautiful DreamSherryll R. Mindo-Fetalvero

Winnie Royo: Losing and Finding Her VoiceJoe-Anna Marie Casidsid - Abelinde

Sister’s Act in SibuyanEdel S. Garingan

An Insistent NO!Joel Abelinde

Rodilisa’s Heartbreak: Sibuyan’s MournMinerva E. Tabar

A Mother’s Hymn for JusticeEdel S. Garingan

56

810

12

14

17

20

22

25

28

30

32

34

36

41

44

46

Doing Their AssignmentEdel S. Garingan

BEVERLY: Granddaughter of Lepanto MinesJudy A. Pasimio

Manang ElizaEdel Garingan and Elizabeth Mangol

Her Fight for A Safe CommunityElizabeth Mangol

Tagapangalaga ng Pinagmulan ng Buhay:]ÅVI�/IUJWI�)ZKMOI

Malaking Laban Para sa KabundukanCarlo Fajardo

CHAPTER 2

From Tears to BlissJohn David Agpalo

Nightmare WarfareJohn David Agpalo

Green VoicesEdel S. Garingan

Beyond the Pillars of EducationLalaine Trono

Mayette BadarJudy Pasimio

Choosing the Right PathFaye P. Bada

Bruised but Not BrokenSadie Delantar

The Makings of a HeroSadie Delantar

A Woman with Choice

CHAPTER 3

Sweet Ordinary Gesture of SupportEdel S. Garingan

The Unfolding Story of the Mamanwas & GandyVanessa Abalos

48

51

53

55

57

61

6466

68

70

72

74

76

79

81

83

8688

90

DandelitaAstrid Villanueva

Imelda LuzaZenia T. Balasa

Activist at HomeEdel S. Garingan

Resistance of Women in SamlangEdel S. Garingan

What it Takes to Protect Life...Edel S. Garingan

Delia’s Small VoiceJonathan Espina

WILMA TERO Mag-aaral, Aktibista SubanenJudy A. Pasimio

I am VICKY CAJANDIG, I am a Subanen Judy A. Pasimio

A Mayor’s PlightEdel S. Garingan

CHAPTER 4

Sa PagmiminaDolores B. Yanan

Doc Nymia: Humang Rights Advocate, DefenderJoy Icayan

Rosanna VillegasVirginia Pinlac

Sr. Eden Orlino, SPCJoy Icayan

Leading the Way in Nature ConservationJoel Abelinde

.]TÅTTQVO�)�5Q[[QWV�QV�)�,Q[\IV\�4IVLEdel S. Garingan

The Lawyer. The Activist. The Congresswoman. Kristine Mendoza

Advocate RisaKristine Mendoza

Love for Nature... that Never EndsMark Pere Madrona

92

94

96

99

102

105

107

110

113

116118

121

123

124

126

128

130

133

135

Sibuyan Island

5Chapter 1: Women in Luzon 5Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity

Acknowledgment

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IntroductionStories from the Mines: of struggle, sisterhood and solidarityBY JUDY A. PASIMIOLILAK (PURPLE ACTION FOR INDIGENOUS WOMEN’S RIGHTS)

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LUZONSTORIES

10 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity10

For the Beautyof Buguey

ROSBIN TACUBOY-MARTINBuguey, Cagayan Valley

Alliance for Buguey Community Advocates (ALBUCODA)

BY REI PANALIGAN

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11Chapter 1: Women in Luzon 11Chapter 1: Women in Luzon

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But then, leaving Buguey is not an option because she believes, deep in her heart, that no home

will be as lovely as Buguey.

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12 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity12

BY JOAN MASARATE

IMELDA MAPEBuguey, Cagayan Valley

Brgy. Kagawad, Pagdaya, Buguey, Cagayan Valley

Going Againstthe Tide

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13Chapter 1: Women in Luzon 13Chapter 1: Women in Luzon

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14 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity14

BelievingBY EMIELLOU S. PAN

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15Chapter 1: Women in Luzon 15Chapter 1: Women in Luzon

SR. MINERVA TACUBOYCagayan Valley

Pastoral Ministry Coordinator and member of Federation of Environmental Advocates in Cagayan (FEAC)

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16 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity16

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Power and violence are the instruments essential in winning a battle, but in this situation, she aims to address the conflict with compassion, mercy and

forgiveness.

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Manang TinaA Story of Defense for Land, Life, and Resources

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RUPINA BATIEL MOYAENApayao

Save Apayao People’s Organization

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20 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity20

BY ANGIE ADVIENTO

SELYA BAHAGDidipio, Nueva Vizcaya

Didipio Earth Saver’s Multi-Purpose Association, Inc (DESAMA)

A Struggle to Reclaimthe Forests andMountains’ Beauty

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22 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity22

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23Chapter 1: Women in Luzon 23Chapter 1: Women in Luzon

CARMEN ANANAYODidipio, Nueva Vizcaya

Didipio Earth Saver’s Multi-Purpose Association, Inc (DESAMA)

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24 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity24

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:Rico Mallillin� LV�D�PHPEHU�RI�D�YROXQWHHU�JURXS�EDVHG�LQ�&DORRFDQ��,Q�$SULO��������5LFR�SDUWLFLSDWHG� LQ� WKH� (DUWK� 'D\� FHOHEUDWLRQ�RI� WKH� DQWL�PLQLQJ� FRPPXQLWLHV� LQ� .DVLEX���1XHYD�9L]FD\D�ZKHUHLQ�YDULRXV�JURXSV�KHOG�D�UDOO\� LQ� IURQW�RI�.DVLEX�0XQLFLSDO�+DOO� WR�GHQRXQFH� WKH�RSHUDWLRQ�RI�2FHDQD�*ROG� LQ�'LGLSLR��5LFR�DOVR�ZHQW�WR�'LGLSLR�ZKHUH�VKH�PHW�$WH�&DUPHQ�

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25Chapter 1: Women in Luzon 25Chapter 1: Women in Luzon

Ka Badang:Hungry for JusticeBY JUDY A. PASIMIO

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26 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity26 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity

KA BADANG ISIDROMindoro

farmer

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27Chapter 1: Women in Luzon 27Chapter 1: Women in Luzon

This is a sacrifice am doing not just for myself but for the others. So maybe the Lord will reward

me by taking my UTI away.

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28 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity28

What’s Servingin Pearl’s Cafe?Ate Pearl discovered new great things to offer other than brewed coffee & pasta.BY EDEL S. GARINGAN

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29Chapter 1: Women in Luzon 29Chapter 1: Women in Luzon

ATE PEARLTablas Island, Romblon

Romblon Ecumenical Forum Against Mining

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:Edel S. Garingan�LV�WKH�0HGLD�DQG�&RPPXQLFDWLRQV�2IILFHU�RI�$O\DQVD�7LJLO�0LQD�

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30 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity30

Story of ValorA child retold the story of a woman who inspired her to fight for what is right.BY JENNY VAN FIESTADA

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MARBETH M. FADRIQUELATablas, Romblon

Adviser, Alliance of Students against Mining (ASAM)

31Chapter 1: Women in Luzon 31Chapter 1: Women in Luzon

… and she was even surprised that the owner of that mining company is a

popular person in the province. She could not accept that a

child of Romblon is doing such terrible act to their town.

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32 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity32

The campaign against mining is harsh and difficult but this teacher in Romblon sees it otherwise.

A Beautiful Dream

BY SHERRYLL R. MINDO-FETALVERO

SHERYLL FETALVEROTablas, Romblon

Adviser, Alliance of Students against Mining (ASAM)

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34 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity34

BY JOE- ANNA MARIE CASIDSID - ABELINDE

Winnie Royo:Losing & Finding Her Voice

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35Chapter 1: Women in Luzon 35Chapter 1: Women in Luzon

WINNIE ROYOSibuyan Island, Romblon

Adviser, Alliance of Students against Mining (ASAM)

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:Joe-anna Marie Abelinde�LV�D�6RFLDO�:RUNHU�E\�SURIHVVLRQ��LV�FXUUHQWO\�WHDFKLQJ�DW�3DPDQWDVDQJ�/XQJVRG�QJ�0D\QLOD��

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36 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity36

Sisters’ Act in SibuyanBY EDEL S. GARINGAN

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37Chapter 1: Women in Luzon 37Chapter 1: Women in Luzon

ROYO’S SISTERSibuyan Island, Romblon

Sibuyan Island Sentinels League for Environment Inc.

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40 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity40 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity404040 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity404040

EMELINE RAFOLSSibuyan Island, Romblon

41Chapter 1: Women in Luzon 41Chapter 1: Women in Luzon

An Insistent NO!BY JOEL ABELINDE

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In a flood of sudden rage, Emeline approached and grabbed him by the collar. “What are you doing

here? I thought you are an example because you oppose mining like the people. How much were

you paid?” The chairman startled and was unable to react, say a word or pull away from her.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:Joel Abelinde�LV�D�&RPPXQLFDWLRQ�&RRUGLQDWRU�IRU�DQ�LQWHUQDWLRQDO�QRQ�JRYHUQPHQW�DJHQF\�LQ�0HWUR�0DQLOD�

44 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity44

Rodilisa’s Heartbreak:Sibuyan’s MournBY MINERVA E. TABAR

RODILISA MARINSibuyan Island, Romblon

Elementary teacher and a member of Sibuyan Island Sentinels League for Environment Inc.

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45Chapter 1: Women in Luzon 45Chapter 1: Women in Luzon

“We just want a silent protest, we did not want to end the day like that,” Rodilisa recalled when asked about that day. Sibuyan cried with her.

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46 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity46

Listen to the song that captures the death of an environmental hero.

A Mother’s Hymnfor Justice

BY EDEL S. GARINGAN

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PERLITA PALOMARSibuyan Island, Romblon

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48 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity48

Doing Their AssignmentMeet the teachers in Sibuyan who were accused of a misconduct for doing their share in protecting the island they all loved.BY EDEL S. GARINGAN

TEACHERS IN SIBUYANSibuyan Island, Romblon

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50 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity50

BEVERLY LONGIDBenguet

Chair, KATRIBU Party List

51Chapter 1: Women in Luzon 51Chapter 1: Women in Luzon

BEVERLY: Granddaughter of Lepanto MinesBY JUDY A. PASIMIO

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52 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity52

For Beverly, there is one most common sight today in the

Mankayan communities—a long line of pails waiting for their turn to be filled up with water, a precious

resource in this dried up land. “Why can’t the company provide

this service to the people?”

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54 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity54

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR:Elzabeth Mangol�LV�0LQLQJ�DQG�(QYLURQPHQWDO�2IILFHU�RI�0D&(&�

ELIZA M. HERNANDEZMarinduque

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63Chapter 1: Women in Luzon 63Chapter 1: Women in Luzon

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Wala po akong kinakatakutan sa ganitong pakikipaglaban

sapagkat... ayaw namin maranasan ng aming komunidad ang mga

nararanasan ng mga kapwa naming katutubo sa ibang lugar.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:Carlo Fajardo�LV�D�PHPEHU�RI�D�YROXQWHHU�JURXS�EDVHG�LQ�&DORRFDQ�DQG�D�JUDGXDWH�RI�$%�(QJOLVK�LQ�8QLYHUVLW\�RI�&DORRFDQ�&LW\�DQG�FXUUHQWO\�ZRUNLQJ�DV�DQ�(QJOLVK�LQVWUXFWRU�LQ�$VLDQ�,QVWLWXWH�RI�&RPSXWHU�6WXGLHV��

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VISAYASSTORIES

66 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity66

From Tears to BlissComing to blows for the Common GoodBY JOHN DAVID AGPALO

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67Chapter 1: Women in Luzon 67Chapter 2: Women in Visayas

ISIDRA BAUSALJavier, Leyte

Unahin Natin Lagi Ang Diyos (UNLAD) Bito Lake Fisherfolks and Farmers Association

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:John David Agpalo�LV�D�-RXUQDOLVP�VWXGHQW�IURP�WKH�9LVD\DV�6WDWH�8QLYHUVLW\��+H�LV�D�YROXQWHHU�ZULWHU�IRU�WKLV�SURMHFW�

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Chapter 2: Women in Visayas

68 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity68

EDITA REALANOMacArthur, Leyte

Unahin Natin Lagi Ang Diyos (UNLAD) Bito Lake Fisherfolks and Farmers Association

Nightmare WarfareHer fight against mining is worth dying forBY JOHN DAVID AGPALO

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69Chapter 1: Women in Luzon 69Chapter 2: Women in Visayas

Manang Edita has no regrets because she believes that her advocacy is worth dying for. “I am also doing this for my family. For our livelihood that

was stolen by the miners.

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Chapter 2: Women in Visayas

70 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity70

A journalist finds a good cause to sing to her heart’s desire

Green Voices

BY EDEL S. GARINGAN

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71Chapter 1: Women in Luzon 71Chapter 2: Women in Visayas

MARISSA CANOBaybay, Leyte

Journalist, Instructor at Visayas State University

When you do this work, it is like you are saving yourself

and the lives of other people… it is a nice feeling to know that you are able to influence people to also

protect the environment. Yet all of these are not easy!

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Chapter 2: Women in Visayas

72 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity72

Ma’am Tess gives meaning to a devotion of teaching a community

Beyond the Pillarsof Education

BY LALAINE TRONO

TESS TABADABaybay, Leyte

Director of the Institute for Strategic Research and Development Studies, Visayas State Universities

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73Chapter 1: Women in Luzon 73Chapter 2: Women in Visayas

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:Lalaine Trono�ZRUNV�DV�D�YRLFH�ZULWHU�IRU�DQG�HGLWRU�IRU�0F�*UDZ�+LOO�,QWHUQDWLRQDO�

Never mind that there are threats to her life,

it’s all part of the risk to bring out the truth.

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Chapter 2: Women in Visayas

74 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity74

Mayette BadarAn advocate faces sad realities of women in miningBY JUDY A. PASIMIO

MAYETTE BADAREastern Samar

Pambansang Koalisyon ng mga Kababaihan sa Kanayunan (PKKK), President of the Eastern Samar chapter

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75Chapter 1: Women in Luzon 75Chapter 2: Women in Visayas

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Maaring maalwal ang buhay ng ilang mga kasama, at

kababayan dahil sa mina; pero pano na bukas? Sa susunod na bukas? Kung sira na ang kalikasan, ang kabuhayan?

Kung watak watak na ang mga pamilya dahil sa awayan?

Chapter 2: Women in Visayas

76 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity76

Choosing the Right PathBehind her sweet smile and comical personality is a woman who fearlessly fights for what she thinks is right.BY FAYE P. BADA

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77Chapter 1: Women in Luzon 77Chapter 2: Women in Visayas

ELENA GALOMaasim, Leyte

Brgy. Councilor of Lunas, Maasin, Leyte

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Chapter 2: Women in Visayas

78 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity78

Sacrificing our environment

for money is not sustaining our needs but is a

mere selfishness.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:Faye Bada� LV� D�'HYHORSPHQW�&RPPXQLFDWLRQ�VWXGHQW� RI� 9LVD\DV� 6WDWH� 8QLYHUVLW\� PDMRU� LQ�MRXUQDOLVP� DQG� D� PHPEHU� RI� 'HYHORSPHQW�6RFLHW\�GRLQJ�ZRUNV�LQ�VFKRRO�DQG�FRPPXQLWLHV�LQ�/H\WH���

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79Chapter 1: Women in Luzon 79Chapter 2: Women in Visayas

Bruised but Not BrokenThe story of a HERO’s unfaltering courage to fight against mining in HomonhonBY SADIE DELANTAR

ROSARIO ABUENOHomonhon, Samar

Homonhon Environment and Rescuers Organization (HERO)

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Chapter 2: Women in Visayas

80 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity80

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Chapter 2: Women in Visayas

82 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity82

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A Woman with ChoiceNancy Badilla chooses to fight for Manicani - her home, her hope

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1 HMC received its Environmental Compliance Certificate on February 1992, the Interim Mines Permit on August 1992, and the Mineral Productivity Sharing Agreement on October 1992.

Chapter 2: Women in Visayas

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ATE NANCYManicani, Samar

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Chapter 2: Women in Visayas

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3

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MINDANAOSTORIES

88 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity88

Sweet Ordinary Gestureof SupportA mother in Dinarawan proves that help comes even in small actionsBY EDEL S. GARINGAN

PINKY CAPUAJabonga, Agusan del Norte

Dinarawan Indigenous People’s Organization

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89Chapter 1: Women in Luzon 89Chapter 3: Women in Mindanao

And being at the kitchen does not mean that she has less knowledge on and commitment to the

campaign. She knows that MRL had violated their rights

and had disturbed their culture and only brought

chaos to their peaceful living.

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Chapter 3: Women in Mindanao

90 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity90

The Unfolding Story

BY VANESSA ABALOS

of the Mamanwasand Gandy

She believes that if mining will psuh through in their town, there will be landslides, water will be contaminated with substances

harmful to human being and worst, mountains will be devastated.

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91Chapter 1: Women in Luzon 91Chapter 3: Women in Mindanao

GANDY PURUGOYJabonga, Agusan del Norte

Dinarawan Indigenous People’s Organization

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:Vanessa Abalos� LV�D�PRXQWDLQ�FOLPEHU�DQG�D�PHPEHU�RI�D�YROXQWHHU�JURXS�LQ�&DORRFDQ��6KH�LV�ZRUNLQJ�DW�D�FKLOG�VSRQVRUVKLS�DJHQF\�LQ�0HWUR�0DQLOD�

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Chapter 3: Women in Mindanao

92 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity92

Dandelita – a feistymother to her family andher Mamanwa communityBY ASTRID VILLANUEVA

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DANDELITA A. PALAYJabonga, Agusan del Norte

Dinarawan Indigenous People’s Organization

“The pro-mining people may enjoy

their present situation, but in no time, they will have

no place to go.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:Astrid Villanueva�LV�WKH�&RPPXQLFDWLRQ�+HDG�RI�+DULERQ�)RXQGDWLRQ��+DULERQ�)RXQGDWLRQ� LV�RQH�RI�WKH�OHDG�FRQYHQHU�RI�$O\DQVD�7LJLO�0LQD�

Chapter 3: Women in Mindanao

94 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity94

IMELDA LUZATandag, Surigao del Sur

Women Association of SDS - Tandag Chapter

Imelda LuzaBY ZENIA T. BALASA

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95Chapter 1: Women in Luzon 95Chapter 3: Women in Mindanao

What she feared more is when the genuine action from the basic sector of farmers and the indigenous opposing mining will stop.

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Chapter 3: Women in Mindanao

96 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity96

Activist at HomeEmma had been to many places and live a good life miles away from the country, but she knows at the beginning that there is really no place like homeBY EDEL S. GARINGAN

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97Chapter 1: Women in Luzon 97Chapter 3: Women in Mindanao

EMMA HOTCHKISSCantilan, Surigao del Sur

Carrascal, Cantilan, Madrid, Carmen, Lanuza (CCMCL) Baywatch Foundation

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Chapter 3: Women in Mindanao

98 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity98

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Resistance of Women in SamlangThe struggle to know the truth and build a good life from itBY EDEL S. GARINGAN

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Chapter 3: Women in Mindanao

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SAMLANG WOMENSarangani

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Indeed, everything in the surface is so rich, that for

the women in Sitio Samlang, they no longer have to

extract what’s beneath their land and mountains.

Chapter 3: Women in Mindanao

102 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity102

ROBINA POBLADORSaranggani

Bae, female leader of a B’laan Tribe in Samlang

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What it Takes toProtect Life...BY EDEL S. GARINGAN

...and all the things that nurture it?

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I am not afraid to die. If it is for the

community, I can give my life for it.

Chapter 3: Women in Mindanao

104 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity104

DELIA MALUNGONSarangani

a B’laan in T’murok, Sarangani

105Chapter 1: Women in Luzon 105Chapter 3: Women in Mindanao

Delia’s Small VoiceBY JONATHAN ESPINA

It was all still vivid in Delia’s mind. That day when the representatives of the mining company, Sagittarius Mines Inc., or SMI,

visited their town of Malungon in Saranggani province in Mindanao to offer them something that seemed impossible to resist.

Better livelihood, health services, infrastructure, and even scholarships for their children, those were all promised to them by the mining company in exchange for their “yes.” Their approval to the proposed copper-gold mining project near their area. A plan that is undoubtedly destructive to the environment and its people, yet still highly supported by the local government.

In a town stricken by extreme poverty where majority of the people rely on agriculture for a living, it was a very tempting offer. Most of Delia’s neighbors were inclined to grab that once in a lifetime opportunity. All their lives, they have been struggling. Mining was supposed to be their one last shot for a decent living, but Delia knew better. She was more than aware of what happened to the nearby provinces affected by mining, ³0D\� PJD� NDWULER� NDPL� QJD\RQ� QD� QDKLKLUDSDQ�QDQJ� PDNDKDQDS� QJ� SDJNDLQ� VD� JXEDW�´ (We have some tribe members who are now experiencing LQNÅK]T\a�QV�ÅVLQVO�NWWL�QV�\PM�NWZM[\��

Delia is a B’laan, an indigenous group of people in the Southern Mindanao. She may be perceived as a simple home-maker, a farmer’s wife, and a member of an indigenous group, but she is considered a rarity in their town. She possessed something that is so elusive for their poor community, even considered a privilege for some. Delia, unlike her other tribe members, is educated. And being well-educated means she has a bigger responsibility for her people, to guide them towards a well-informed decision.

Delia knew it all along, that SMI, just like other mining companies, are just taking advantage of XMWXTM¼[� TIKS� WN � ML]KI\QWV� NWZ� \PMQZ� W_V� [MTÅ[P�motives. At that point, she claimed that big responsibility, to use her education to inform and empower her people. She made a stand to say NO to mining.

Her conviction was powerful enough that, little Ja� TQ\\TM�� [PM� _I[� IJTM� \W� QVÆ]MVKM� PMZ� MV\QZM�tribe against mining. She spearheaded numerous meetings with the tribe about its negative effects on their lives, on how this would destroy their forest and eventually their source of living. More importantly, she challenged her people to think about their future, as well as of their children’s future. SMI’s promises are not for free, she explained; in the coming years, mining just might joepardize their own lives.

Chapter 3: Women in Mindanao

106 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity106

More than anything else, Delia has successfully tapped the most personal attribute of her tribe members and used it to ignite their sense of pride to eventually object to the proposed mining project. She reminded them to be proud of being a B’laan, to stay true to their identity and traditions. That being a B’laan is being free to cultivate their own land. It is their land, and no one, even the big mining companies, can take that away from them. She added that even the law recognizes the ancestral domain of indigenous people. By the time when SMI conducted another consultation, almost all were against the proposed mining project. Delia’s efforts paid off, but little did she know that, it was just the beginning of more challenges ahead.

The mining company did not give up. Backed by the local government, SMI was intensely serious to take over the B’laan’s land. Delia did not expect the harassments that came afterwards. ³,QDDZD\�DNR�QJ�NDSLWDQ��WLQDQRQJ�NDPL�NXQJ�EDNLW�D\DZ�QDPLQ�DQJ�PLQLQJ��VDEL�NR�NDVL�PDVDPD�\DQ�VD�NDEXQGXNDQ�QDPLQ�´ (Our Barangay captain confronted me angrily. He asked me why we don’t want mining QV�W]Z�XTIKM��1�\WTL�PQU�Q\�_QTT�LM[\ZWa�W]Z�NWZM[\��

After a few days, strangers were spotted in their area, roaming around as if observing the very small details of the town. Eventually those suspicious men were starting to lure and bribe the B’laan people to change their minds and support the mining project. Delia knew that those actions were aimed at her to scare her. Maybe because she is a woman, harassers thought that it would be easy to frighten her.

But Delia proved them wrong. She showed them that though she is a woman, and she is strong and ÅZU�QV�PMZ�KWV^QK\QWV��;PM�VM^MZ�PIL�IVa�[MKWVL�\PW]OP\[� KWV\QV]QVO� \PM�ÅOP\��;PM�_IV\ML� \PW[M�strangers out of their place.

In the coming days, Delia and the other B’laans built a fence to protect their property.� ³+D\DDQ�QL\R�NDPL�GLWR��.DKLW�PDKLUDS�NDPL�ă�ND\D�QDPDQ�QDPLQ�� +XZDJ� QL\R� NDPLQJ� ORNRKLQ� (Leave us alone. Let us just live the life that we want. We can UIVIOM��,WV¼\�NWWT�][�

Just like the fence that one day would be taken down, she knew that the company would not stop until the resistance faltered. This was just the beginning. She knows that harassments and bribery would follow, but Delia is willing to conquer it all, for her family and for the B’laan people. Her passion for their traditions and also for the environment is so profound and intense. Delia wants us to know that while we are busy managing our own lives in the city, there is a small group of indigenous people in a far and mountainous place in Mindanao whose lives are threatened by mining capitalists.

A few months ago, the local government of Saranggani received 15M worth of assistance from SMI. Though the true intention of the LWVI\QWV� Q[� Y]M[\QWVIJTM�� Q\� R][\� [QOVQÅM[� PW_�big that mining company is compared to Delia. Nobody knows how long Delia could hold on and ÅOP\��J]\�[PM�LM[XMZI\MTa�VMML[�W]Z�PMTX�\W�ZIQ[M�awareness.

It won’t hurt if for just one moment, let we try to listen to Delia’s small voice.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:Jonathan Espina� KDV� ILYH� \HDUV� RI�H[SHULHQFH�ZULWLQJ�DQG�SURGXFLQJ�VKRZV�IRU�79�DQG�UDGLR���

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Chapter 3: Women in Mindanao

108 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity108

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Chapter 3: Women in Mindanao

110 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity110

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VICKY CAJANDIGZamboanga

Pigsalabukan Bangsa Subanon (PBS) and Executive Officer of PIKHUMPONGAN DLIBON SUBANEN, INC. (PDSI)

Chapter 3: Women in Mindanao

112 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity112

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I did not want the Subanen communities to feel helpless against

these companies.

113Chapter 1: Women in Luzon 113Chapter 3: Women in Mindanao

She was not allowed to get inside the mining site she opts for closure, now she’s looking for other ways to get in

A Mayor’s Stand

BY EDEL S. GARINGAN

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MAYOR SADEKA GARCIA-TOMANENGTubay, Agusan del Norte

I can look myself in the mirror in the

coming years and say to myself that I have done something that is just right for the people of Tubay.

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119Chapter 1: Women in Luzon 119Chapter 4: Women in the Philippines

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DOLORES YANAN Defend Zambales

Chapter 4: National Advocate

120 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity120

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Lakad, martsa at higa sa kalsada ang kinailangang gawin upang maipahayag sa mga kinauukulan ang kanilang mga

kinalilimutang obligasyon.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:Dolly Yanan� � LV� WKH� &HQWUDO� /X]RQ� &KDLU� RI�3DJNDNDLVD� QJ� .DEDEDLKDQ� SDUD� VD� .DOD\DDQ���6KH� ZDV� D� IRUPHU� UDGLR� DQQRXQFHU� LQ� &HQWUDO�/X]RQ��D�SV\FKRORJLVW�DQG�D�IRUPHU�([HFXWLYH�RI�<RNXEDUL� )RXQGDWLRQ�� D� FRPPXQLW\�EDVHG� QRQ�JRYHUQPHQW� RUJDQL]DWLRQ� GHGLFDWHG� WR� IDFLOLWDWH�WKH�KROLVWLF�JURZWK�RI�FKLOGUHQ�

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121Chapter 1: Women in Luzon 121Chapter 4: Women in the Philippines

Doc Nymia:Human RightsAdvocate, DefenderBY JOY ICAYAN

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DR. NYMIA PIMENTEL-SIMBULANExecutive Director of Philippine Human Rights Information Center (PhilRights)

Chapter 4: National Advocate

122 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity122

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:Joy Icayan works as a research associate in Philippine Human Rights Information Center.

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123Chapter 1: Women in Luzon 123Chapter 4: Women in the Philippines

ROSANNA VILLEGASKAISA KA Youth

Youth for Nationalism and Democracy

TeacherOsangBY ATTY. VIRGINIA PINLAC

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:Atty. Virginia Pinlac is a human rights lawyer and President of KAISA KA

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Chapter 4: National Advocate

124 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity124 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity124124124

SR. EDEN ORLINO, SPCSister of St. Paul of Chartres

125Chapter 1: Women in Luzon 125Chapter 4: Women in the Philippines

Sr. Eden Orlino, SPC0\� QDPH� LV� 6LVWHU� (GHQ� 2UOLQR�� 63&�� ,�

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Advocacy in human rights protection, justice and peace, biodiversity conservation are best expressions of God’s

love and concern for His ‘anawim’ and creation. Doing advocacy work is

doing God’s work.

Chapter 4: National Advocate

126 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity126

Leading the Way inNature ConservationBY JOEL ABELINDE

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ANNABELLE PLANTILLAChief Operating Officer of Haribon Foundation Inc.

Chapter 4: National Advocate

128 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity128

Fulfilling A Mission inA Distant Land

BY EDEL S. GARINGAN

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CATHERINE COUMANSMiningWatch Canada

Chapter 4: National Advocate

130 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity130

The Lawyer. The Activist.The Congresswoman.BY KRISTINE MENDOZA

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Congresswoman, Dumagat Island

AKBAYAN Representative

131Chapter 1: Women in Luzon 131Chapter 4: Women in the Philippines

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that the progress of this country lies in the

improvement of the lives of its basic sectors who manage and protect our

mineral resources.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:Kristine Mendoza ZRUNV� DV� D� OHJLVODWLYH�VWDII� LQ� WKH� RIILFH� RI� &RQJUHVVZRPDQ� .DND�%DJ�DR�

Chapter 4: National Advocate

132 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity132

RISA HONTEVEROSAKBAYAN Representative

133Chapter 1: Women in Luzon 133Chapter 4: Women in the Philippines

Advocate RisaBY KRISTINE MENDOZA

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Chapter 4: National Advocate

134 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity134

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These Congresspersons have always catered to the interest of foreign mining companies. The task assigned to me was

to change their minds.

135Chapter 1: Women in Luzon 135Chapter 4: Women in the Philippines

Love for Nature…that Never EndsBY MARK PERE MADRONA

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Chapter 4: National Advocate

136 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity136

REGINA PAZ LOPEZManaging Director, ABS-CBN Foundation

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR:Mark Pere Madrona� LV� D� IUHHODQFH� MRXUQDOLVW�DQG� EORJJHU�� +H� UHFHLYHG� WKH� %HVW� 7H[W� %ORJ�DZDUG�LQ�WKH��WK�$QQXDO�3RS'HY�0HGLD�$ZDUGV��

What the miners do to nature is very gruesome.

I visit mining places and I see huge holes everywhere and red

liquid flowing to the sea. It is awful!

Chapter 4: National Advocate

Photo by Erwin Mascariñas

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