LIBONA, Bukidnon — Authorities have dismantled a large-scale illegal mining operation in Libona, Bukidnon, resulting in the arrest of 27 individuals—seven Chinese nationals and 20 Filipinos—and the seizure of millions of pesos worth of copper ore, heavy equipment, and hazardous explosives.
The coordinated raid was carried out on February 9, 2026, in Zone 6, Sitio Manlauyan, Barangay Gango, following intelligence reports on unauthorized mineral extraction in the area. The Philippine National Police (PNP) said the operation was led by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), with support from multiple law enforcement and regulatory agencies.
Extensive Underground Mining Facility Uncovered
During the operation, authorities uncovered a vast underground tunnel system used for mineral extraction, indicating a well-organized and long-running illegal mining operation.
Law enforcers also seized industrial-grade machinery, including dump trucks, backhoes, large generator sets, and mineral processing plants, highlighting the scale and commercial nature of the activity.
In addition, large quantities of copper ore were confiscated from the site and placed under government custody.
Unlicensed Explosives Raise Alarm
Authorities also recovered commercial explosives stored without proper permits, believed to have been intended for underground blasting.
The presence of these hazardous materials posed serious risks to nearby communities and mine workers, prompting the immediate deployment of PNP Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) units to safely clear and secure the explosives.
Officials said the swift response helped prevent possible accidents and further environmental destruction.
Foreign and Local Suspects in Custody
Seven Chinese male nationals and 20 Filipino suspects were arrested for their alleged roles in the illegal mining operations. Authorities are now verifying their immigration status, employment records, and possible links to organized syndicates engaged in unlawful resource extraction in Northern Mindanao.
Investigators are also probing the extent of foreign involvement in the operation and whether similar activities are being conducted in other parts of Bukidnon.
Multi-Agency Enforcement Operation
The raid was led by the DENR in coordination with the National Bureau of Investigation – Northern Mindanao Regional Office (NBI-NEMRO 10), the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB), the Libona Municipal Police Station, and the Philippine National Police.
PNP Explosive Ordnance Disposal units played a vital role in ensuring public safety by neutralizing the explosives found at the site.
Police: No One Above the Law
PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strict law enforcement.
“Operations like this show that the law will be enforced without exception. Ang mga lumalabag sa batas ay hindi natin palalampasin at mananagot sa kanilang ginawa,” Nartatez said.
He added that police personnel remain steadfast in protecting both the public and the environment.
“Our personnel are committed to protecting both communities and natural resources. Pinangangalagaan natin ang kaligtasan ng mamamayan at ang ating kalikasan mula sa ilegal na gawain,” he stressed.
Strengthening Environmental Protection Efforts
Authorities said the operation is aligned with the PNP Focused Agenda, which promotes proactive, people-centered, and accountable policing. Through its Enhanced Managing Police Operations framework, the PNP ensured discipline, safety, and operational integrity throughout the high-risk enforcement activity.
Environmental officials warned that illegal mining contributes to deforestation, water pollution, soil erosion, and increased disaster risks in upland and rural communities.
Cases Filed, Crackdown to Continue
Cases are now being prepared against the 27 suspects for violations of environmental and mining laws, explosives regulations, and immigration statutes. Confiscated equipment and minerals remain under government custody pending court proceedings.
Authorities vowed to intensify monitoring and enforcement operations in Bukidnon and other mining-prone areas to prevent the resurgence of illegal mining and protect the region’s natural resources.