Voices from the Highlands: Advocacy Efforts of Cordilleran Indigenous People Activists against Large-scale Mining

Proponent/s Name/s (Last Name, First Name, Middle Initial)

Ashley Margarette R. Soliba, University of the CordillerasFollow
Laarnie M. Tininggal, University of the CordillerasFollow
Shifra Yumi C. Peralta, University of the CordillerasFollow
Jodelyn B. Thomas, University of the CordillerasFollow
Angeli Veniss N. Montano, University of the CordillerasFollow

Document Types

Paper Presentation

School Name

University of the Cordilleras

Track or Strand

Humanities and Social Science (HUMSS)

Research Advisor (Last Name, First Name, Middle Initial)

Jimenez, Girlie C.

Start Date

23-6-2025 3:30 PM

End Date

23-6-2025 5:00 PM

Zoom Link/ Room Assignment

EKR 405

Abstract/Executive Summary

Abstract: While much attention has been given to the effects of development projects on Indigenous Peoples (IPs) in the Cordillera region, limited research focuses specifically on large-scale mining and the advocacy efforts of IP activists resisting these destructive operations. This study addresses this gap by examining the motivations, methods of advocacy, and impacts of IP activism against large-scale mining in the Cordillera. The research aims to understand the factors surrounding IP activism against large-scale mining, including environmental, health, economic, and cultural concerns. Using a qualitative approach, data was collected through in-depth interviews with IP activists and analyzed thematically. The study found that IP activists are primarily motivated by the need to protect their livelihoods and ancestral lands, safeguard their health, and preserve their cultural identity. Additionally, the study found that IP activists integrated cultural practices and utilized various systematized on the ground and political methods in their advocacy efforts. Their advocacy efforts have led to increased community empowerment, heightened awareness of mining issues, and influenced policies regarding environmental protection. The study concludes that IP activism not only challenges the immediate threats posed by mining but also strengthens community resilience and unity in the long term.

Keywords

indigenous; activists; Cordillera; large-scale; advocacy

Research Theme (for Paper Presentation and Poster Presentation submissions only)

Socio-Economic and Political Landscape (SPL)

Initial Consent for Publication

yes

Statement of Originality

yes