Stories from the Mines... of struggle, sisterhood and solidarity
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Transcript of Stories from the Mines... of struggle, sisterhood and solidarity
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. [email protected]
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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7Chapter 1: Women in Luzon 7Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and SolidarityStories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity
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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
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:Rei Panaligan�LV�DQ�HQYLURQPHQWDO�DGYRFDWH�DQG� KDV� EHHQ� LQYROYHG� LQ� GHYHORSPHQWDO�ZRUN�IRU�PRUH�WKDQ����\HDUV�
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
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:Joan Masarate� LV� D� JUDGXDWH� RI� SROLWLFDO�VFLHQFH�DW�8QLYHUVLW\�RI�&DORRFDQ�&LW\�DQG�LV�FXUUHQWO\�ZRUNLQJ�DV�D�ILHOG�RIILFHU�LQ�D�FKLOG�VSRQVRUVKLS�DJHQF\�LQ�0HWUR�0DQLOD�
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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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17Chapter 1: Women in Luzon 17Chapter 1: Women in Luzon
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Manang TinaA Story of Defense for Land, Life, and Resources
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1 Anglo American Corporation calls itself “one of the world’s major diversified mining groups. We continue to extend our reach around the globe and expand the materials we mine.” From http://www.angloamerican.co.uk/aa/about/ accessed August 31, 2009. The website also states the company’s presence in the Philippines with exploration which started in 2000 in Mindanao and in the Central Cordillera. http://www.angloamerican.co.uk/aa/imap/#pageType=map/locn=Philippines/industry=all/activity=all/filter=industry/lSelect=nothing
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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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CARMEN ANANAYODidipio, Nueva Vizcaya
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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
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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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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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49Chapter 1: Women in Luzon 49Chapter 1: Women in Luzon
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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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nararanasan ng mga kapwa naming katutubo sa ibang lugar.
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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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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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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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80 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity80
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The Makings of a HEROHow one woman became a hero in the war against miningBY SADIE DELANTAR
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82 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity82
NIDA ABUEMEHomonhon, Samar
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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
84 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity84 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity848484848484
ATE NANCYManicani, Samar
Save Manicani Movement
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Chapter 2: Women in Visayas
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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.
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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
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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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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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100 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity100 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity100100100 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity100100100
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���
107Chapter 1: Women in Luzon 107Chapter 3: Women in Mindanao
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Chapter 3: Women in Mindanao
108 Stories from the Mines: ...of Struggle, Sisterhood and Solidarity108
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namin - mga espiritu na nagbigay-lakas at giya sa aming mga belian.
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)
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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.
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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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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
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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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