A local court in Eastern Samar has rejected a mining company’s bid to stop residents of Homonhon Island from protesting against tree-cutting operations, a decision that environmental advocates hailed as a victory for community rights and environmental justice.

The Regional Trial Court Branch 3 in Guiuan denied the application filed by EMIR Mineral Resources Corporation (EMRC) for a Writ of Preliminary Injunction and Temporary Restraining Order against residents of Brgy. Bitaugan. 

The community, led by Homonhon Environmental Advocates and Rights Defenders (HEARD), has been barricading roads and staging protests to oppose what they believe are expansion activities disguised as “clearing operations” that threaten their water sources.

In its ruling, the court said the company failed to establish the injury needed to justify silencing community actions. 

The Philippine Misereor Partnership Inc. (PMPI) welcomed the decision, noting it affirms the people’s fundamental right to a healthy environment and shields them from the risks of encroachment on their water supply.

“The RTC decision underscores what we have always maintained, that defending the environment is not a crime, it’s mandatory,” said Yoly Esguerra, national coordinator of PMPI.

For community members, the ruling offers relief. “We are relieved that the Court upholds our right to protect our environment. Homonhon is our home and we will continue to protect this island,” said Dionisio Bandoy, a HEARD member and one of the case respondents.

PMPI said the decision is “a breath of hope for environmental defenders” who continue to face harassment and legal persecution globally. 

The group praised the courage of the villagers who held their ground “despite undue legal pressure” and thanked the Environmental Legal Assistance Center (ELAC) and partner groups for their support.

At the same time, PMPI called on government institutions and courts “to protect environmental defenders and communities to ensure that laws or policies are not used to silence dissent and those who speak truth to power.”

“We will celebrate this victory but will remain vigilant,” PMPI said. “The struggle for environmental and climate justice continues, and we will continue to stand in solidarity with the communities in Homonhon and their water rights.”