A coalition of 70 communities in the central Cordillera Septentrional mountain range has launched an organized protest against a mining exploration plan proposed by the Ministry of Energy and Mines, warning that the project threatens to destroy vital natural resources, agricultural lands, and the livelihoods of thousands of families.
The communities estimate the project could potentially impact over 142,000 tareas (approximately 8,930 hectares or 22,070 acres) and a critical water network essential to the Cibao region.
In a document shared by local priest Father Ramón Ramos (Padre Nino), community leaders detail their grave environmental and rights concerns. They allege that the Ministry has already explored more than 70 potential gold extraction sites without any public consultation, a move they denounce as a clear violation of their environmental and communal rights.
A specific point of anxiety is the threat that mining operations pose to Pico Diego de Ocampo, the second-highest peak in the Dominican Republic and a key environmental landmark.
“Given that this involves a possible significant environmental impact and the mobilization of communities,” the statement reads, emphasizing the high stakes of the dispute.
As a next step, the communities plan to hold a general assembly on Monday, 15 December 2025, to draft a forceful message to the Ministry of Energy and Mines, solidifying their unified opposition.
The communities in these regions are simultaneously engaged in an ongoing struggle for the repair and construction of local and rural roads. Exactly one year ago, Father Nino announced renewed protests over the lack of response from the Ministry of Public Works, underscoring the broader neglect they feel from government agencies.
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9 December 2025