21/06/2026
DEFENDING OUR COMMON HOME IS NOT A CRIME
A Franciscan Statement of Solidarity with Most Rev. Jose Elmer I. Mangalinao, D.D.
The Franciscan Province of San Pedro Bautista โ Philippines expresses its profound solidarity and prayerful support for Most Rev. Jose Elmer I. Mangalinao, D.D., Bishop of Bayombong, following the filing of a civil case against him and several environmental advocates arising from their public opposition to mining activities affecting the watersheds, indigenous communities, and rural populations of Nueva Vizcaya and Quirino.
Recent developments have brought renewed attention to the long-standing environmental concerns raised by the Diocese of Bayombong and various sectors of civil society regarding mining operations and their potential impact on critical watershed areas, agricultural lands, biodiversity, and local communities. While the court recently denied the request for a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) and scheduled a hearing on the application for a writ of preliminary injunction, concerns have likewise been raised that the case bears the characteristics of a Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation (SLAPP), a legal action that may have the effect of discouraging citizens and advocates from exercising their legitimate right to participate in matters of public and environmental concern.
As Franciscans, we respect the independence of the courts and trust in the rule of law. Nevertheless, we cannot remain indifferent when those who courageously raise moral, ecological, and humanitarian concerns are subjected to legal actions that may intimidate, harass, or silence voices speaking on behalf of creation and vulnerable communities. The protection of our common home and the defense of affected communities should never be treated as acts deserving of punishment or intimidation.
For many years, Bishop Elmer Mangalinao has consistently stood with indigenous peoples, farmers, environmental advocates, and local communities in promoting responsible stewardship of natural resources and in raising concerns regarding projects perceived to threaten watersheds, ecosystems, livelihoods, and ancestral domains. His witness flows not from political interests but from his pastoral responsibility as shepherd of the people entrusted to his care. In accompanying those who fear the loss of their lands, livelihoods, and environmental heritage, he embodies the Church's mission to stand with the poor, protect the vulnerable, and uphold the dignity of every human person.
The Church teaches that care for creation is not optional. It is an essential expression of our faith in God the Creator. To protect forests, rivers, watersheds, mountains, and the communities that depend upon them is to protect life itself. Ecological degradation, the destruction of biodiversity, and the depletion of natural resources inevitably affect the poor first and most severely, while compromising the welfare of generations yet to come.
As sons of Saint Francis of Assisi, we firmly believe that creation is a sacred gift entrusted to humanity. The earth is not merely a resource to be exploited but a common home to be cherished, protected, and handed on responsibly to future generations. The cry of the earth and the cry of the poor continue to call for a response marked by justice, compassion, and moral courage.
In this critical moment, we respectfully call upon President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., concerned national government agencies, legislators, local government officials, and all public servants entrusted with the stewardship of our nation's resources to place the common good above all vested interests and to ensure that environmental protection remains a national priority.
We urge our leaders to listen attentively to the voices of local communities, indigenous peoples, environmental scientists, Church leaders, and all stakeholders whose lives are directly affected by decisions concerning mining and resource extraction. Authentic development must never be measured solely by economic gains but by its impact on human dignity, ecological sustainability, social justice, and the welfare of future generations.
We likewise call upon government authorities to safeguard democratic and participatory spaces where citizens, environmental defenders, community leaders, and faith-based advocates can freely and responsibly express legitimate concerns regarding environmental protection without fear of intimidation, harassment, or reprisals. A just and humane society is strengthenedโnot weakenedโwhen its citizens actively participate in the pursuit of the common good.
We further appeal to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the Mines and Geosciences Bureau, the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples, and all agencies entrusted with the protection of our natural resources and vulnerable communities to exercise their mandates with transparency, accountability, and fidelity to the Constitution and the laws of the land. The protection of watersheds, forests, ancestral domains, biodiversity, and the rights of affected communities must never be subordinated to short-term economic interests.
The future of Nueva Vizcaya, Quirino, and other ecologically sensitive regions of our country is not merely a local concern but a national responsibility. As climate change, biodiversity loss, and environmental degradation increasingly threaten our people, we must exercise greater vigilance in protecting critical watersheds, forests, river systems, and ancestral lands that sustain life itself.
For this reason, we affirm our unwavering support for Bishop Elmer Mangalinao and for all those who, through peaceful, lawful, and responsible means, seek to defend our common home and protect the welfare of present and future generations. We stand with all who believe that authentic development must respect both people and planet, and that the voice of conscience must never be silenced.
We pray that truth, justice, and genuine concern for the common good may guide all ongoing proceedings and decisions. We likewise pray that those entrusted with political, economic, and judicial authority may exercise their responsibilities with wisdom, integrity, and a sincere commitment to the welfare of the Filipino people.
In standing with Bishop Elmer Mangalinao, we stand with the Gospel, with the poor, with indigenous peoples, with future generations, and with all who seek to protect God's gift of creation. We affirm that the defense of our common home is not a crime but a moral responsibility, a civic duty, and a sacred obligation before God.
At a time when creation groans under the weight of exploitation and many communities bear the burden of environmental degradation, silence is not an option. The Church must continue to proclaim the truth, defend life, and accompany those whose voices are too often unheard.
"Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak out, judge righteously, defend the rights of the poor and needy."
(Proverbs 31:8โ9)
Guided by the Gospel and the Church's social teaching, we renew our commitment to justice, peace, and the integrity of creation. We pray that wisdom, courage, and genuine concern for the common good may guide our leaders and all those entrusted with the stewardship of our nation's resources.
May Saint Francis of Assisi intercede for our nation, that we may always choose the path of justice, peace, fraternity, and care for our common home.
BR. LINO GREGORIO V. REDOBLADO, OFM
Minister Provincial
Franciscan Province of San Pedro Bautista โ Philippines
