BAROBO, Surigao del Sur — Five individuals, including two foreign nationals, were arrested following a large-scale joint operation conducted by the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) against illegal mining activities in Barangay Guinhalinan, Barobo, Surigao del Sur.
The coordinated enforcement operation was carried out from 5:00 p.m. on February 4 until 5:00 a.m. on February 5, 2026. It was led by the DENR Region XIII Enforcement Division, with tactical support from 24 personnel of the PNP Special Action Force (SAF) from the 14th Special Action Company (14SAC) and 1st Special Action Battalion (1SAB). The mission was also backed by the Barobo Municipal Police Station, the Surigao del Sur Police Provincial Office, and other partner agencies.
Authorities said the operation was launched following intelligence reports on ongoing illegal mining activities in the area, which is known for its rich mineral resources and vulnerable ecosystems.
During the raid, law enforcement operatives arrested five suspects — two foreign nationals and three Filipino individuals — who were allegedly engaged in unauthorized mining operations.
A subsequent search and clearing operation resulted in the seizure of significant mining equipment and materials, including one pick-up vehicle and three excavators. Authorities also confiscated various tools and supplies believed to have been used in illegal extraction activities, such as hydraulic oil, grease, coolant, welding equipment, electronic batteries, electrical wires, fuel containers, a fuel pump, grinders, shovels, water pump, battery charger, excavator bucket teeth, and a Starlink satellite internet set.
Also recovered were a piece of processed mineral and other assorted tools, further strengthening evidence of sustained mining operations at the site.
All arrested individuals and confiscated items were turned over to the Barobo Municipal Police Station under the Surigao del Sur Police Provincial Office for documentation, investigation, and proper legal disposition.
PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. lauded the operating units for their swift and coordinated response, emphasizing the serious environmental and social impacts of illegal mining.
“Illegal mining is not a minor violation. It destroys our forests, contaminates our waterways, and threatens the safety and livelihood of entire communities. Kapag hinayaan natin ito, ang talo ay ang mamamayan,” Nartatez said.
He stressed that the PNP remains fully committed to supporting national efforts to safeguard the country’s natural resources and to hold accountable those who exploit the environment for personal gain.
“This operation sends a strong message that we will not tolerate environmental crimes. Walang puwang sa batas ang mga sumisira sa ating kalikasan. The PNP will continue to work hand in hand with DENR and other agencies to stop illegal mining operations wherever they exist,” he added.
The PNP chief also called on the public to stay vigilant and immediately report suspicious activities, particularly in remote and mountainous areas where illegal mining operations are often concealed.
The Philippine National Police reiterated its commitment to sustained and intensified operations against illegal mining and other environmental violations, reinforcing its mandate to protect peace and order while preserving the country’s natural wealth and ecological balance.