BUTUAN CITY – Authorities arrested nine Chinese nationals along with one Filipino during a targeted anti-illegal mining operation in Cantilan, Surigao del Sur late Thursday.
The Police Regional Office in Caraga (PRO-13) said the suspects were apprehended in Carac-an Downstream, Barangay Lobo, following intelligence monitoring of unlawful mineral extraction activities in the area. Their identities have not yet been disclosed.
Recovered from the site were heavy machinery and mining tools estimated at around PHP50.5 million. These included excavators, payloaders, dump trucks, generator sets, sluice boxes, water pumps, and temporary bunkhouses used in the operation.
All confiscated equipment has been turned over to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) for proper handling and to support the filing of environmental cases.
PRO-13 Regional Director Brig. Gen. Marcial Mariano Magistrado IV said the operation underscores the government’s intensified campaign against environmental violations.
He stressed that illegal mining causes severe ecological damage while posing risks to communities and legitimate industries.
Magistrado also credited the coordinated efforts of multiple agencies, including the Mines and Geosciences Bureau, Community Environment and Natural Resources Office, National Bureau of Investigation, Philippine Air Force, and regional police units.
Charges are being prepared against the suspects for violations of Republic Act 7942 or the Philippine Mining Act of 1995, along with other applicable environmental and immigration laws.
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