Miss Philippines Earth Joy Barcoma alarmed by Dupax arrests

Dupax Del Norte residents defending their land from mining operations have found an ally in reigning Miss Philippines Earth Joy Barcoma.

The beauty queen, known for using her voice to speak her mind, has once again taken to social media to raise her concerns about the arrest of residents in Nueva Vizcaya, citing it as a warning for the entire nation.

“When communities are criminalized for protecting their land, water, and future, we must ask: PARA KANINO BA TALAGA ANG PAGBABAGO (FOR WHOM IS CHANGE)?” she posted on Sunday morning, Jan. 25.

Barcoma shared a post from the BAYAN MUNA Partylist social media page showing the statement from former Rep. Carlos Zarate.

“Ang mga inaresto ay hindi kriminal—sila ay mga mamamayan na nag-depensa lamang sa kanilang karapatan sa lupa, kalikasan at kabuhayan,” the former lawmaker said.

(Those arrested are not criminals–they are residents who are just defending their right to the land, the environment and livelihood)

Zarate cited the arrest on Friday, Jan. 23, as “state-sanctioned violence in the service of mining corporations.” 

Under court order, Nueva Vizcaya police arrested seven individuals including anti-mining leader Florentino Daynos. The residents set up a barricade to prevent the incursion of mining proponents.

 On her post, Barcoma defended the citizens. “The people of Dupax are pro-life, pro-water, pro-forest and pro-generations yet unborn,” she said.

Barcoma also argued that while mining permits may be issued, the ultimate consent must be granted by the people.

“No court order can replace genuine consultation, and no profit justifies silencing communities who bear the risks while others reap the rewards,” the beauty queen asserted.

For Barcoma, standing for Dupax is in support of the rights of Filipinos to defend their homes without fear, asserting the principle that progress must be just, humane and accountable.

“Listen to Dupax. Protect Dupax. Because when one community loses its voice, we all do,” appealed the beauty queen.

The hunt for Barcoma’s successor has already begun with the Miss Philippines Earth pageant’s call for applicants for the 2026 competition. /ra