Abuyog Shields Farmlands with 50-Year Mining Ban

• Abuyog, Leyte, bans mining for 50 years to protect natural resources and farms, prompted by concerns over nearby mining operations in McArthur.

Ronnie Yanuario 2 months ago 2.7 K

Posted on Mar. 3, 2026 at 8:58 am

ABUYOG, Leyte — In a significant move for environmental conservation, the Municipality of Abuyog has officially banned all mining activities for the next 50 years to protect its natural resources and agricultural communities from potential harm caused by extractive industries.

This decision was made through a collaborative effort between the Sangguniang Bayan (SB) and the Executive Branch, led by Mayor Lemuel “Gin” Traya. The urgency for this action arose from recent mining concerns in nearby Barangay Maya in the Municipality of McArthur, Leyte, prompting Abuyog’s leaders to take proactive measures to safeguard their territory and prevent similar operations within their jurisdiction.

On February 10, 2026, local legislators unanimously approved Resolution No. 112, declaring Strong Built (Mining) Development, along with its corporate heirs and successors, as “persona non grata” in relation to black sand mining operations. This declaration sent a clear message that Abuyog would not tolerate companies looking to exploit its coastal and mineral resources.

Further solidifying this stance, Hon. Rodulfo M. Cabias co-authored and passed Resolution No. 118 on February 16, 2026. This resolution, titled “Resolution Strongly Opposing and Disallowing All Large-Scale and Small-Scale Mining Operations,” imposes a 50-year ban on all mining activities within the municipality.

The goal of this resolution is to empower the people of Abuyog and ensure that communities are not coerced into allowing mining activities for the next five decades.

Hon. Cabias stated that these legislative actions were fully supported by Mayor Lemuel Gin Traya. The main objective is to protect Abuyog from environmental harm and safeguard the livelihoods of local farmers, who are essential to the municipality’s economy.

By prioritizing agricultural sustainability and environmental protection over short-term mineral extraction, Abuyog’s leaders have set a course focused on long-term ecological preservation and economic stability for future generations.

(Photo by: Ronnie Yanuario)