CPA, INNABUYOG, AND COMMUNITY REPRESENTATIVES TROOP TO THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

Today, we managed to register our opposition against development aggression projects in the Cordillera- from destructive mines and dams to the privatization of public markets. We started the day with a short protest at the House of Representatives. We submitted copies of community petitions to the offices of Cordillera lawmakers, and to the Makabayan bloc as well.

*Makabayan lawmakers receive copies of community petitions against mining in Benguet and Kalinga.*

We managed to hold a session with Cong. Mauricio Domogan, joined by Cong. Maxi Dalog Jr of Mt. Province. We hope that all the issues raised will merit a more decisive response from these lawmakers. While we agree in some key community concerns, there are still issues that we need to exhaust, especially on mining and human rights. We stand by our demands nonetheless, and we extend our gratitude for their time, considering that other committee hearings coincided with our requested session. As for other lawmakers representing the Cordillera, we hope to get a response from their offices soon.

*Discussion with Cong. Mauricio Domogan and Cong. Maxi Dalog, Jr.*

*Anti-Makilala Mining Petition submission to the office of Cong. Caroline Agyao of Kalinga province.*

For Makabayan lawmakers, we commend the willingness to discuss ways forward even beyond our brief time at the House of Representatives. We commend the commitment to fight for pro-people legislation such as the People’s Mining Bill, Human Rights Defenders Bill, among others.

But we know that these talks will not be enough. Tomorrow, we continue, and we will take our demands to the streets. After all, it is our militant struggle that leads to victory! Payt!

NOVEMBER 26

9 AM: Department of Justice Protest Action

11:30 AM: National Commission on Indigenous Peoples Protest Action

2:00 PM: Department of Environment and Natural Resources Protest Action