CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — The Police Regional Office 10 (PRO10) has intensified its crackdown on illegal mining in Northern Mindanao after authorities confiscated ₱340,680 worth of alleged mineral ores during a joint operation in Opol, Misamis Oriental, on November 4, 2025.
According to reports, personnel of the Opol Municipal Police Station (MPS) acted swiftly after receiving information from Task Force Opol about the presence of 204 sacks of mineral ores in Zone 3, Barangay Limonda. Responding officers, accompanied by members of the 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company (PMFC), verified the report and confirmed the discovery.
Initial investigation revealed that Task Force Opol, during a routine patrol, had spotted four unidentified individuals filling sacks with mineral ores. However, the suspects fled upon noticing the approaching authorities. A pursuit operation was immediately launched but yielded no arrests.
The seized mineral ores have been placed under the custody of the Opol MPS for documentation and safekeeping. The materials will be turned over to the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) for examination and proper disposition as the investigation continues to identify those involved.
PBGEN Christopher N. Abrahano, Acting Regional Director of PRO10, commended the swift action of the Opol police and the 2nd PMFC, stressing the police force’s dual commitment to maintaining order and protecting the environment.
“As protectors of peace and order, it is also our duty to safeguard the environment for future generations. I commend our personnel for their dedication and urge our communities to stand with us in the fight against illegal mining,” Abrahano said.
Authorities vowed to sustain operations against illegal extractive activities that threaten both the environment and the welfare of local communities across Northern Mindanao.