North Luzon Mineral Resources Corp. (NLMRC) filed cyberlibel charges against Atty. Edgardo C. Balgos and Atty. Fidel Santos, lawyers representing residents of Kasibu, Nueva Vizcaya who oppose the company’s proposed mining project.

The complaint against Atty. Santos arose from a video posted on Facebook in which he questioned the company’s claim that it consulted affected communities before starting exploration. Residents say the company used an attendance sheet from another activity to support its record of consultation.

The complaint against Atty. Balgos stems from his interview on local radio station DWRV, where he said the company engaged in “illegal and dishonest practices.”

The case against Atty. Balgos is the third suit NLMRC has filed against lawyers and community defenders involved in the campaign opposing the mining project. Environmental and human rights groups have described these cases as “strategic lawsuits against public participation” or SLAPPs. These are legal actions intended to intimidate, silence, or burden critics through costly and lengthy litigation.

KATRIBU—Kalipunan ng Katutubong Mamamayan ng Pilipinas (Alliance of Indigenous Peoples of the Philippines) condemned NLMRC for filing cases against Atty. Santos and Atty. Balgos. The group called NLMRC’s actions brazen. After intruding on the people’s land without genuine consultation and respect for their rights, the company now targets the very lawyers providing legal aid to communities resisting its abuses.

Meanwhile, the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP)—Nueva Vizcaya Chapter expressed concern.

“Legal actions must never be weaponized to block or undermine a legitimate advocacy. Any attempt to intimidate members of the Bar from performing their professional duties raises serious alarm for the administration of justice and law enforcement,” the IBP explained.

The chapter also voiced solidarity with Atty. Santos and Atty. Balgos and called for respect for their right to access due process.