(UTV|COLOMBO) – Staunch eco-campaigner and former Philippine Environment Minister Gina Lopez has died at the age of 65.
She was known for her strong stance against mining, closing down many of the country’s quarries during her ten months in office in 2016.
Ms Lopez was also an advocate for children’s rights and protection.
ABS-CBN, the broadcasting company her family founded, said she was a “pillar of strength”.
She was chair of the company’s social development organisation.
“Her caring heart and selfless kind of love inspired people within and beyond the organisation to help and serve others,” ABS-CBN said in a statement.
What was she known for?
Serving under President Rodrigo Duterte’s government, Gina Lopez led a crackdown on mining in a country known for its nickel ore production.
Lopez closed 23 mines and suspended five others, as well as banning open-pit mining.
A campaign followed, led by the country’s mining industry, which argued the move threatened the lives of some 1.2 million people who depended on the industry.
A congressional committee rejected her appointment as environment secretary and she was forced to step down after 10 months in the role. (BBC)
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