Alyansa Tigil Mina, a consortium of organizations dedicated to challenging mining in the Philippines, compiled an array of stories from Filipino women struggling with mining in their communities. Women leaders including Imelda Mape and Carmen Ananayo have put their lives in danger in the struggle for human rights, environmental protection, and conservation. Imelda Mape, an elected official from Cagayan Valley, took a stance against the authorization of a new magnetite mining project. While her intransigent opposition to the project has made her the object of resentment for barangay officials, it has also helped her gain her community’s trust and support. Similarly, Carmen Ananayo of the Didipio Earth Saver’s Multi-Purpose Association refused to sell her land to Oceana Gold Philippines. The narratives in this collection provide many lessons on overcoming fear and what it takes to do the right thing for the community. Photo credit: Alyansa Tigil Mina
