A newly surfaced satellite image showing widespread deforestation in Dinapigue, Isabela has raised alarm among environmental advocates, as it spotlights the ongoing conflict between legal mining operations and the preservation of the Sierra Madre mountain range.
The cleared area, captured through Google Maps, lies within one of the Philippines’ most important ecological shields—a biodiversity-rich stretch of forest that serves as Luzon’s natural defense against destructive typhoons.
In a Brigada News PH report, local officials confirmed that the deforested site is linked to Dinapigue Mining Corporation, which operates under a 25-year mining contract approved by the national government. Dinapigue Mayor Vicente D. Mendoza acknowledged the firm’s presence, stressing that its operations are “covered by permits and documents from the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB).”
While the mining activity is legally sanctioned, environmental groups warn that its impact could be devastating. They argue that legality does not guarantee environmental safety. The Sierra Madre not only shelters endemic species, but also acts as a buffer against flooding and landslides. Activists warn that continued deforestation could worsen climate vulnerability and displace surrounding communities.
“The concern is not just about legality, but about long-term sustainability,” conservationists emphasized, urging a review of mining activities in high-risk ecological zones. Many called for stricter enforcement of environmental impact assessments and transparent monitoring.
Mayor Mendoza, for his part, said the local government is closely coordinating with national agencies to ensure compliance with environmental standards. “We understand the community’s concerns,” he said, adding that they would work to ensure operations remain within legal and ecological bounds.
As debate continues, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has not yet released an official update regarding the status of Dinapigue’s mining permits or any potential regulatory changes.
