Manifestation of Sen. Loren Legarda on the Privilege Speech of Sen. Raffy Tulfo regarding Illegal Dredging | Senate of the Philippines | January 27, 2026

Mr. President, I rise to manifest my strong support for the privilege speech of Senator Raffy Tulfo on the continuing problem of illegal black sand mining. The issue raised involves serious environmental damage, the erosion of coastal protection, and the steady destruction of the livelihoods of small fisherfolk who depend on healthy nearshore ecosystems.

The removal of black sand from coastal and seabed areas destabilizes shorelines, accelerates erosion, and degrades fishing grounds that sustain coastal communities. Fishermen experience declining catches and are forced to venture farther out to sea, incurring higher costs and greater risk, while families face income loss and food insecurity.

Coastal ecosystems that once served as natural buffers against storm surges and flooding are weakened, exposing nearby communities to greater harm during extreme weather events. Given these impacts, the government must be steadfast in ensuring that activities involving black sand extraction are totally prohibited. The environmental and social costs far outweigh any claimed economic benefit, particularly when these activities compromise food security, disaster resilience, and the long-term sustainability of our marine resources.

Accountability must extend beyond private operators. Local government units that allow, tolerate, or fail to prevent these activities within their jurisdictions should likewise be held to account.

I therefore support a full investigation, firm legislative and regulatory action to prohibit black sand mining, and the imposition of responsibility on all parties involved, including public officials who have allowed these practices to persist. The Senate must act decisively to protect our coastal communities, uphold environmental stewardship, and affirm that our natural resources are held in trust for the Filipino people.

Thank you, Mr. President.