MANILA – Environment Secretary Gina Lopez on Thursday answered the Chamber of Mines’ opposition to her appointment, as she stood pat on her stand against destructive mining.

The mining group had said Lopez was unfit to lead the department and accused the long-time green activist of bias against the industry.

“There were violations… Rivers were silted, farmlands affected, and yes, thousands of farmers and fishermen affected,” Lopez told the Commission on Appointments.

“People have suffered, due process was followed at every step of the way,” she said.

Lopez said communities that host mines don't benefit enough from mining operations. She said 82 percent of net revenues goes to the companies.

“My stand is, and always will be social justice, when the people of our land enjoy the resources of our land,” she said.