Manila: The House of Representatives is being urged to investigate the alleged illegal mining activities by Woggle Corporation in Dupax del Norte, Nueva Vizcaya. Deputy Minority Leader and Mamamayang Liberal Party-list Representative Leila de Lima filed a measure on Monday calling for an inquiry into the matter, which includes the potential cancellation of the exploration permit granted to Woggle Corporation by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources - Mines and Geosciences Bureau (DENR-MGB).
According to Philippines News Agency, the investigation aims to assess the implementation of existing environmental, mining, and local governance laws, ensuring compliance with environmental safeguards and protection of affected communities. There is also a focus on holding government agencies and private entities accountable, as well as determining the need to strengthen legislative measures for sustainable resource management. De Lima expressed these concerns in House Resolution No. 413.
In August 2025, the DENR-MGB issued an exploration license to Woggle Corporation, an affiliate of FCF Minerals Corporation, covering 3,100 hectares in Dupax del Norte, targeting gold and copper deposits. This move has been met with strong opposition from local communities and residents who cite illegal tree uprooting, a lack of prior consultation, and the failure to obtain written consent from landowners and occupants.
The village councils of Barangays Oyao, Bitnong, Inaban, and Munguia have also voiced their opposition to the mining activities, calling for an investigation and the potential revocation of Woggle Corporation's permit. In support of the affected communities, the provincial board of Nueva Vizcaya passed Resolution No. 2025-5734 on August 18, requesting the DENR-MGB to cancel the exploration permit due to violations of environmental and procedural requirements.
Mass protests have been organized by Novo Vizcayanos, religious leaders, lawyers, and environmental advocates against the mining operations. Despite these efforts, the Regional Trial Court Branch 30 in Bambang town issued a temporary restraining order (TRO) in favor of Woggle Corporation on October 10. The TRO prevents residents from maintaining barricades on access roads to the exploration site and has been extended until October 30. The court also instructed the Philippine National Police to enforce the TRO and arrest those resisting its implementation.
Rep. De Lima emphasized the right of Novo Vizcayanos to oppose illegal mining that threatens their communities and livelihoods. She insisted that their concerns must be addressed without compromise.
