FARMERS URGE MARCOS TO HALT IRON SAND MINING IN LEYTE TO PROTECT FARMS

Farmers in several barangays of MacArthur, Leyte, have appealed to President Marcos Jr. to halt proposed iron sand mining, warning it threatens their livelihoods, food security, and the environment.

Over 200 rice farmers held a candlelight vigil and submitted a petition urging an executive order to stop mining in their areas, citing past damage to farmlands and irrigation systems.

The MacArthur Ironsand Mining Corp. holds a 2,268-hectare mining claim under a Mineral Production Sharing Agreement, but its work program has not yet been approved by the Mines and Geosciences Bureau.

Residents also accused the company of failing to rehabilitate mined areas and reported harassment of those opposing operations.

Local officials emphasized that mining can continue legally if all permits and environmental safeguards are followed, while some farmers have entered agreements with the company regarding land use.

Source: PhilNews24 | February 9, 2026