Analysing social media sentiments to inform community-based conservation in mining-affected landscapes near a World Heritage Site in Davao Oriental, the Philippines

Mining is considered a driver of economic growth, though often at the expense of the natural environment. In developing countries and biodiversity hotspots such as the Philippines, it is crucial to promote sustainability that balances socio-economic and environmental development. In this study, we analysed two online posts regarding open-pit mining in Davao Oriental, Philippines, particularly those operating near the Mt. Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary (MHRWS), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We examined 481 unique social media comments through reflexive thematic analysis. The online posts sparked public discussions themed as community voice and protest ( n = 139), governance and accountability ( n = 107), environmental degradation ( n = 94), calls for action and hope ( n = 55), social and health impacts ( n = 20), and economic and livelihood impacts ( n = 15). Drawing from these results, we developed the RESPECT framework as a community-based action model for ecological regeneration, accountable governance, sustainable livelihood, stakeholder collaboration, and environmental stewardship in mining-affected landscapes. Guided by Social Representations Theory (SRT), we posit that social media discussions are shaped by shared meanings about mining. These collective expressions guide public policy and social action aimed at advancing natural resource management and biodiversity conservation. Key mining stakeholders must incorporate public sentiments into their development plans to promote inclusion, equity, and sustainability in mining areas. There is a need to utilise social media channels to advocate for environmental protection and biodiversity conservation. We recommend institutionalising the RESPECT framework to re-evaluate and re-imagine Davao Oriental’s mining sector.