NCCP Statement on the dismissal of civil case against Bishop Mangalinao and environmental advocates of Kasibu, Nueva Vizcaya
The National Council of Churches in the Philippines (NCCP) congratulates Most Reverend Jose Elmer Mangalinao of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Bayombong, and his fellow environmental advocates, including a local parish priest, Fr. Christian Dumangeng, for the dismissal of their civil case in relation to their anti-mining campaign in Kasibu, Nueva Vizcaya.
More than a legal victory, this is a win in the overall struggle of people for justice, peace, and integrity of creation. This affirms that solidarity through collective resistance is not a criminal act, but a divine duty and an exercise of the inherent right to defend land and life.
Importantly, their courageous witness reminds us that we are called to carry each other’s burdens (Galatians 6:2).
Against the looming threat of corporate greed and oppression, church leaders like Bishop Mangalinao and Fr. Dumangeng stood as a source of hope and strength—providing comfort, affirming the people’s struggle, and even speaking out against environmental destruction. The NCCP thereby affirms that tending to a flock also looks like protecting people and their land from destruction.
Likewise, we are reminded that, as people, we are not simply passive bystanders but are called to be active participants in the affairs of our society. We are called to be vigilant. We have a right to question decisions and resist actions that lack democratic, transparent, and consultative dialogue. By caring for one another, even if it means building and maintaining a barricade to block the destruction of God’s creation, we fulfill the greatest commandment of Christ (John 13:34-35).
Nevertheless, the plight of the people of Kasibu, Nueva Vizcaya remains. Local livelihoods are still threatened. Indigenous communities continue to face risk of displacement. The land is still exploited by corporate interests and profit, while those defenders who courageously defend them are still hunted and criminalized.
The NCCP implores the Philippine government to act on its commitment to defend the welfare of the very people it has vowed to serve. As Filipinos living in the most dangerous country in Southeast Asia for environmental defenders[1], we demand state protection and the freedom to speak out without fear of persecution. Ultimately, the government, as the sole duty bearer, must always prioritize and protect the rights of the Filipino people to a safe and healthy environment.
We may have come from different cultural backgrounds and have been given different roles in our society, but we are all united by one duty of caring for our planet and our people, for “the earth is the Lord’s and everything in it. The world and its people belong to Him (Psalm 24:1).” #
Signed and issued on this day, 1st of July 2026.
The Most Rev. Brent Harry W. Alawas
Chairperson
Bishop Joseph G. Agpaoa
Vice Chairperson for Men
Ms. Jennifer Ferariza-Meneses
Vice-Chairperson for Women
Rev. Jon Dave A. Angeles
Vice Chairperson for Youth
Rev. Leonardo R. Morada
Corporate Treasurer
Ms. Minnie Anne Mata-Calub
General Secretary
[1] Global Witness investigations into the Philippines focus on the country’s status as the deadliest in Asia for land and environmental defenders. https://globalwitness.org/en/regions/asia-pacific/philippines/
