DUMINGAG, ZAMBOANGA DEL SUR – October 1, 2025 — Authorities launched a surprise raid on an illegal mining site in Barangay Licabang, Dumingag, Zamboanga del Sur, leading to the recovery of raw minerals and explosive materials used for operations. The joint effort was carried out by the Zamboanga del Sur Police Provincial Office (ZDSPPO) and the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) following the directive of Governor Divina Grace Yu.
According to reports, the raid was prompted when smoke from mining activities became visible in the area, allowing operatives to swiftly locate the site. However, those operating the illegal mine managed to evade arrest after quickly fleeing the scene.
Governor Yu expressed her gratitude to the DENR-MGB and the police for the successful operation, stressing her commitment to stamping out illegal mining in the province. “Mao ni akong gusto nga dakop tibuok dili tinagsa,” Yu said, emphasizing the need for collective accountability rather than just singling out individuals.
Recovered from the site were several raw minerals and blasting materials, which authorities say posed a threat not only to the environment but also to community safety.
While the crackdown earned praise from environmental advocates, some residents voiced concern about the livelihood implications for locals who depend on small-scale mining. One resident appealed directly to Governor Yu, acknowledging the environmental harm caused by the operations but pleading for alternative jobs.
“Gov, sayod ko nasayop ang mga tawo kay misugal sila tungod sa kawad-on. Kada hapon makita nako ang mga abantero muage dre, maligo sa lapok ug mangutang lang ipakaon sa ilang pamilya. Unta Gov, naa kay aksyon nga mahatagan sila ug legal nga trabaho para makakaon lang 3x a day,” the resident said in a public post.
The comment reflects a wider dilemma in the province: balancing the protection of the environment with the economic struggles of residents who rely on mining as their only source of income.
Governor Yu has yet to issue a statement in response to the appeal, but the raid marks another step in her administration’s campaign against destructive and illegal mining practices in Zamboanga del Sur.