DUMINGAG, Zamboanga del Sur — Authorities arrested four individuals and confiscated more than half a million pesos worth of mineral ores in a late-night anti-illegal mining operation conducted on March 25, 2026, in Barangay Dulop.
Operatives from the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) Regional Field Unit 9, through its Special Operations Team, carried out the operation at around 9:30 p.m. in coordination with the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Regional Office IX and the Dumingag Municipal Police Station.
The operation resulted in the arrest of four male suspects, identified only by their aliases “Rene,” “Mike,” “Del,” and “Randy,” who were reportedly serving as drivers and crew of two trucks loaded with mineral ores. Authorities said the suspects were caught in the act of possessing, controlling, loading, and transporting approximately 350 sacks of mineral ores without the necessary transport permits.
The confiscated minerals, found onboard the two trucks, were estimated to be worth ₱612,500.
A report submitted to CIDG Director Police Major General Robert A.A. Morico II highlighted that the suspects failed to present any legal documentation authorizing the transport of the mineral resources, a violation under Republic Act No. 7942, or the Philippine Mining Act of 1995.
Under the law, all mineral resources within the Philippines’ territory, whether located on public or private lands, are owned by the State. The law mandates that exploration, development, utilization, and conservation of these resources must be properly regulated to ensure environmental protection and safeguard the rights of affected communities.
Morico stressed that illegal extraction and transport of mineral resources undermine government efforts to manage the country’s natural wealth responsibly and sustainably.
The arrested individuals are now facing charges before the National Prosecution Service for violations of Section 102 (Illegal Exploration), Section 103 (Theft of Minerals), and Section 110 (Other Violations) of the Philippine Mining Act.
The operation forms part of the CIDG’s intensified OPLAN KALIKASAN, a nationwide campaign aligned with the directive of Philippine National Police Chief, Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., to strengthen enforcement against environmental crimes.
CIDG leadership commended Police Colonel Rosell D.M. Encarnacion, regional chief of CIDG Regional Field Unit 9, and the Special Operations Team led by Police Major Joseph N. Severino for the successful operation. The agency said the accomplishment reflects its continuing commitment to protect the country’s environment and natural resources from exploitation.
Authorities also called on the public to remain vigilant and report illegal activities in their communities, including illegal mining, quarrying, logging, and fishing, emphasizing that public cooperation is crucial in preserving the nation’s ecological balance and natural wealth.