An organization representing indigenous communities in Palawan is calling on Amnesty International to retract a report accusing nickel mining projects in the area of failing to properly consult Indigenous Peoples (IP) and causing harm.
The Indigenous Peoples Development Organization (IPDO) BICAMM, which advocates for communities in Barong-Barong, Ipilan, Calasaguen, Aribungos, Mambalot, and Maasin, in Brooke’s Point, strongly criticized the report as “misleading and inaccurate.”
In a press statement sent Friday to Palawan News, the group reminded Amnesty International of the progress achieved through partnerships with mining corporations and community leaders and called on it to recognize these achievements.
“Our communities have been actively involved in every step of the process,” asserted BICAMM President Julhadi Carim Titte in their native tongue.
“Contrary to what the report suggests, consultations were thorough, transparent, and conducted with full community participation, including representatives from the national government and local government units spearheaded by the NCIP,” he added.
Titte criticized Amnesty International for selectively interviewing individuals, especially those with minority views and excluding key community leaders engaged in negotiations and decision-making.
“The report focused on a few, while ignoring the broader group working with companies and the local government, thereby distorting the reality on the ground,” he said.
The group noted that they have recently received approximately ₱53 million in rightful mining royalties from the total ₱73.875 million allocated by Ipilan Nickel Corporation.
These funds will support critical development projects, including healthcare, education, and infrastructure improvements.
Titte also clarified that communities have full access to the studies and are regularly informed of potential risks through community dialogues.
“It’s misleading to claim these documents were withheld,” he stated.
Furthermore, he pointed out that the report assumes the IP community lacks the capability to assess the situation and make an informed decision for themselves.
The group strongly rejected the allegations of bribery and coercion during consultations and stressed that no one in their communities has been influenced to support mining projects through pressure or fear.
BICAMM is also calling on Amnesty International to retract its report and recognize the positive progress being made.
“It’s time for a fair representation of what is truly happening here, as we continue working to ensure our rights are respected,” Titte concluded
