Contributed Story
APARRI, Cagayan-It has been two years since the impassioned protest by fisherfolk in Aparri against black sand mining operations, yet the repercussions are still keenly felt in the municipality of Cagayan.
Despite the fervent calls for environmental preservation and the protection of livelihoods, the scars of mining persist, casting a shadow over the region’s ecological balance and economic stability.
Reports from the online Aparri Page circulating in Aparri with more than 200,000 views continue to highlight the enduring impact of the mining activities on their daily lives. Fishermen lament the dwindling catch, echoing the sentiments expressed during the protest of 2022. The once-abundant marine resources have yet to recover, leaving many families grappling with diminished incomes and uncertain futures.
Moreover, concerns raised about the erosion threat posed by the dredging project have not abated. Residents fear the long-term consequences of ecological disruption, especially in an area prone to flooding and vulnerable to the ravages of climate change.
While the authorities may tout the dredging project as a necessary endeavor for river restoration and flood control, the voices of the affected communities cannot be silenced. The disparity between official assurances and the lived experiences of the people underscores the urgent need for transparency, accountability, and genuine consultation in decision-making processes.
As we reflect on the events of two years ago, it is clear that the struggle for environmental justice in Cagayan is far from over. The legacy of the protest lives on as a testament to the resilience and determination of communities to safeguard their natural heritage and secure a sustainable future for generations to come.#
