Defend Ilocos Sur and Kalikasan People’s Network for the Environment (KPNE) condemned the Department of Environment and Natural Resources Region 1 (DENR-1) for renewing Isla Verde Mining Development Corporation (IVMDC)’s dredging operation permit. The renewal was granted despite the company’s repeated violations of the law. According to the groups, the agency’s decision lacked clear and legitimate basis and contradicted its very mandate to protect the environment.

On December 23, the DENR-1 upheld IVMDC’s appeal to revoke the December 22 cancellation of its Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), which allows the company to sell the excavated materials from the designated zone in the river.

IVMDC’s suspension was discussed in a dialogue between the company, local government, and residents on November 19. The company failed to provide the necessary documents to continue its operations. These included a clear technical description of its dredging operations and proof that the operations covered only the specified dredging zone, as well as renewal of its permit to transport minerals. DENR-1 still reinstated the MOA despite the absence of these documents.

“In just 24 hours, DENR-1 revoked the cancellation and issued a letter of reconsideration. The agency is clearly loyal to plundering corporations and not to the people,” Kalikasan explained.

The dredged materials are transported to Pasay City and Bulacan, contrary to the company’s claim that this aims to prevent flooding in Vigan City.

Former Ilocos Sur governor Luis “Chavit” Singson, and current governor Jerry Singson defended the dredging, calling it an important project supposedly for flood control.

Defend Ilocos Sur called on DENR-1 to explain why it reinstated the MOA and to release all documents related to IVMDC’s operations. It also urged consulting with the affected community before allowing the project to resume.

The group likewise demanded accountability from the company and from government officials who permitted the operations despite the company’s violations of the law. It also demanded proper compensation for the fisherfolk and the immediate rehabilitation of the damaged coastline.