Miners condemn violence against environmentalists

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September 24, 2026 | 12:00am

MANILA, Philippines — The country’s top mining group has denounced any form of violence or killings of individuals that are against mining operations, saying that its members respect human rights.

The Chamber of Mines of the Philippines (COMP) said its members condemn all killing and denounce violence in any form.

“We do not support or endorse any acts of intimidation or direct harm to individuals or groups who disagree with mining operations,” the group said.

COMP said all of its members must conform with its mandate on responsible and sustainable mining, including respect for human rights and ensuring the health, safety and security of stakeholders.

“We subscribe to laws that require free prior and informed consent and regular consultations with host communities and authorities in every phase of the mining process,” the group noted.

It added that members also engage in fair and honest talks with community leaders and advocates to help ensure mining activities are conducted responsibly, recognizing the mutual gains for local communities and the country.

“We guarantee our full support and cooperation with proper authorities on any inquiry related to alleged acts of crime against persons or property,” COMP said.

The statement followed a Global Witness report which said the Philippines was the most dangerous Philippines in Asia for environmental defenders.

This is the 13th consecutive year the Philippines has been identified as one of the deadliest countries for environmentalists.

The 2025 report showed that six of the recorded killings in the Philippines were indigenous peoples, three were small-scale farmers, a journalist and two others.

COMP is one of the largest mining business chambers in the country, with its members engaged in the extraction of critical minerals such as copper, nickel and gold.