Catholic social action organization Caritas Philippines demanded a nationwide mining moratorium on Sunday, Feb. 18, blaming it on the massive flooding that devastated communities in Mindanao.

“The recent devastation in Mindanao is not a natural disaster alone,” Caritas Philippines vice president Bishop Gerardo Alminaza said in a statement.

“It’s a man-made tragedy fueled by greed and irresponsible practices. Weak governance, political dynasties, and rampant mining have created a ticking time bomb, and it just exploded,” he added.

Caritas' initial response was to focus on relief efforts, they mobilized its Emergency Operational Center (EOC) and deployed initial relief of P900,000 to affected dioceses.

However, Caritas Philippines executive director Antonio Labiao Jr. emphasized that it is just like “bandaging a wound without addressing the infection.”

“We need a systemic change that starts with stopping the bleeding,” he said.

Fr. Labiao continued and criticized the mining practices as “irresponsible that have ravaged our environment.”

“Deforestation, soil destabilization, and altered water flow – these are not just statistics, they’re the very reasons our communities are drowning,” he added.

Caritas demanded more than just a pause on mining. They advocate for sustainable development and environmental protection.

“We demand a moratorium to halt the ongoing damage and hold a national conversation. Is profit more important than people’s lives? Is the short-term gain worth sacrificing future generations?” the group said.

Bishop Alminaza emphasized the need for sustainable practices that prioritize the environment and future generations, instead of exploiting resources.

Meanwhile, for good governance and transparency, he said we Filipinos need leaders who "prioritize the well-being of their people, not their interests.”

“Accountability and responsible resource management are crucial to building resilience,” he added.

The organization then urged Filipinos to elect leaders who genuinely serve the needs of their communities.

Caritas further said that the organization is standing in solidarity with the people of Mindanao and is urging the government, mining companies, and all stakeholders to take immediate action.

“Together, we can build a more just, sustainable, and resilient future for all Filipinos, but that future cannot be built on the backs of broken communities and a ravaged environment," it said.

"The moratorium is just the first step – we must rise above self-interest and choose a path that heals our land and empowers our people,” it added.