Leyte residents oppose black sand miningLeyte as seen on Google Maps. TACLOBAN, Philippines — Residents of MacArthur town in Leyte on Tuesday blocked the entry of a massive equipment allegedly intended for black sand mining operation. The group’s spokesman, Jesus Cabias Jr., said residents were worried that the mining operation would destroy their farms and livelihood. In a letter, residents urged President Marcos to issue an executive order stopping black sand mining. The company, MacArthur Iron Project Corp. (MIPC), has reportedly been bringing in ships carrying dredging equipment to Barangay Maya.

Source: Philippine Star February 13, 2026 16:34 UTC