Philippines Update
Published by MAC on 2007-07-13
Philippines Update
13th July 2007
Philippine papers have reported that Lafayette is to sue one of its most vociferous critics within the country, the Center for Environmental Concerns-Philippines (CEC-Phils), for libel; although at the time of writing no papers had actually been served. If such papers are served CEC are more than eager for their day in court, so this legal intimidation could well backfire. Anti-mining groups are also apprehensive about the implementation of the government's anti-terrorism law (the Human Securities Act), and whether it will be used for yet further intimidation. However, with new politicians taking up their posts after the election there is also news that the new vice mayor of Brooke’s Point in Palawan has an anti-mining stance, and the new Vice Governor of North Cotabato is urging the national government to reconsider its aggressive promotion of mining projects.