Environmental advocates and human rights defenders are calling on the public to “Vote Green, Not Greed” in the upcoming May 2025 elections, urging voters to support candidates with strong environmental platforms over corrupt politicians tied to mining companies and political dynasties.
“We need leaders who will push for sound environmental policies, not ‘trapos’ who serve the interests of big business—or their own pockets,” said Jake Tabara, Youth Coordinator of Alyansa Tigil Mina (ATM). He appealed to young voters frustrated by the country’s worsening state of affairs, urging them to “drive change through the ballot and collective action.”
The call to action was made during the launch of Anti-Mining Solidarity Week (Mining Hell Week), a campaign raising awareness of the devastating effects of large-scale mining on communities amidst the country’s socio-economic and political crises.
Mining’s Devastating Toll on Communities
Marylou Verano of Ang Aroroy ay Alagaan, Inc. (4A) and ATM’s Council of Leaders detailed the hardships endured by mining-affected communities:
*“Mining has poisoned our water, our food, and our air. We breathe metallic dust from blasting, our rivers are dead, plants no longer grow,