Bishop Marvyn Maceda calls for coal transition on Semirara Island

Bishop Marvyn Maceda of San Jose de Antique called for a government-backed transition away from coal mining on Semirara Island as its current operating contract nears expiration in 2027. In a statement issued Oct. 4, Maceda urged the government to create a clear, funded, and time-bound plan to move away from coal while current operations continue during a transition period.

The bishop requested that the plan include the development of renewable energy, retraining for workers, economic diversification, and the rehabilitation of land and waters affected by mining. Maceda stated that the transition should protect workers and their livelihoods, noting that the Church does not ask families to sacrifice their daily bread to protect the environment.

Maceda called for the government to provide social protection and assistance to those facing job losses, suggesting that the industry provide just compensation to affected workers. His appeal comes as the Department of Energy reassesses its recent coal bidding process.