From the island and mountains of Rizal to the watershed of Samar Island, wind energy projects are being built on the forests that protect communities from floods and landslides. The clearing has started, turbines are already being built, and downstream communities are already feeling the effects.
Journalist Frenchie Mae Cumpio’s conviction on terror-financing charges has raised concerns over press freedoms in the Philippines, where activists warn that anti-terror laws are being wielded to clamp down on dissent.
“We host dams, geothermal plants, and windmills, but we don’t even get electricity. The power is used for industries and businesses, not for our communities.”
A significant portion of Homonhon Island in Eastern Samar has lost its forest cover as mining companies continue to extract nickel, in this photo taken on Nov. 26, 2024. More than half of the island’s land area is covered by mining permits.
“When you cut a tree…you destroy the forest, the watershed that has been the source of livelihoods and other eco-services to the people and the community, definitely it will intensify climate impacts on the community.”
“They shouldn’t deprive us of the small five-meter space that the bike lanes already have.”