BAROBO, Surigao del Sur — The Philippine National Police (PNP) dismantled an alleged illegal mining operation in Barobo, Surigao del Sur on June 28, leading to the arrest of three male suspects and the seizure of mining equipment and mineral ores with an estimated value of ₱7,109,900, authorities said.
The successful operation was jointly carried out by personnel of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 13 (RMFB-13), the Barobo Municipal Police Station, and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) as part of the government’s intensified campaign against environmental crimes.
Authorities said the three suspects were allegedly caught extracting mineral resources without the necessary government permits, a violation of Republic Act No. 7942, also known as the Philippine Mining Act of 1995.
During the operation, law enforcement personnel confiscated various mining equipment and illegally extracted mineral ores, all of which have a combined estimated value of ₱7,109,900. The seized items are expected to serve as evidence in the filing of appropriate criminal charges against the suspects.
Police officials said the operation underscores the PNP’s continuing commitment to combating environmental law violations through strengthened coordination with partner government agencies, particularly the DENR, in line with the organization’s Focused Agenda.
The operation also supports the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to intensify efforts in protecting the country’s natural resources and ensuring the sustainable management of the environment through effective law enforcement.
PNP Chief Police General Nicolas Torre III Nartatez commended the operating teams for their swift, coordinated, and professional execution of the operation, emphasizing that protecting the environment is a shared responsibility.
“This is not only about enforcing the law. It is also our responsibility to protect our environment for the benefit of future generations. I commend our operating teams for carrying out this operation professionally and in close coordination with our partner agencies,” Nartatez said.
He also urged the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with authorities by reporting illegal activities that threaten the country’s natural resources.
“The participation of our fellow citizens is invaluable. When we work together, we can better protect our natural resources and safeguard our communities,” he added.
The PNP reiterated that it remains steadfast in enforcing environmental laws and intensifying operations against illegal mining, illegal logging, wildlife trafficking, and other environmental offenses under its “Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat at Nararamdaman” program.
Authorities have yet to release the identities of the arrested suspects as legal proceedings are being prepared. Further investigation is underway to determine whether other individuals or groups are involved in the illegal mining operation.