THE Nueva Vizcaya Police Provincial Office (NVPPO) has addressed concerns raised by environmental defenders and community advocates who recently protested outside PNP General Headquarters at Camp Crame regarding police presence in mining-affected areas.
In an official statement, the NVPPO stressed that police personnel deployed in local communities are strictly mandated to maintain neutrality, preserve public safety, and protect civilian rights without taking sides in ongoing mining disputes.
The command reaffirmed its respect for the constitutional rights to peaceful assembly and lawful advocacy.
Addressing allegations that recent legal charges were filed to silence anti-mining activists, the NVPPO clarified that cases involving coercion, resistance, and cyberlibel were not targeted at individuals due to their environmental advocacy.
According to the provincial office, the charges stemmed directly from specific arrests linked to the obstruction of a municipal road.
“Legal proceedings initiated against individuals are based on verified facts, existing laws, and due process, and were never intended to silence legitimate advocacy,” the NVPPO stated, adding that the command remains committed to transparency and accountability.
Recognizing the heightened tensions surrounding large-scale mining operations in the province, the NVPPO invited indigenous leaders, civil society organizations, and representatives of environmental groups to engage in direct dialogue with police leadership to clear up misunderstandings and foster mutual trust.
