MANTICAO, Misamis Oriental — Authorities arrested three individuals and confiscated suspected illegally sourced mineral ores valued at more than P1.18 million during an anti-illegal mining operation conducted in Manticao, Misamis Oriental on Saturday, July 4, 2026.
The operation, carried out at Purok 5, Poblacion, Manticao, was led by the Manticao Municipal Police Station in coordination with the Provincial Intelligence Unit (PIU) and Task Force Kalikasan as part of an intelligence-driven checkpoint operation targeting illegal mining activities in the province.
Arrested during the operation were three male suspects identified only by their aliases “Jomar,” 33; “Edie,” 32; and “Rey,” 25.
Police intercepted an orange HOWO dump truck transporting approximately 700 sacks of suspected unprocessed mineral ores believed to have been extracted through illegal mining operations.
Authorities estimated the value of the seized mineral ores at P1,183,000, while the confiscated dump truck was valued at approximately P1.8 million, bringing the total value of the seized assets to nearly P3 million.
The suspects are currently under the custody of the Manticao Municipal Police Station while appropriate charges are being prepared. Meanwhile, the confiscated mineral ores and other pieces of evidence are scheduled to be turned over to the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) Region 10 for proper examination, documentation, and legal processing.
Police said the operation forms part of the government’s intensified campaign against illegal mining, which continues to pose serious environmental, economic, and public safety risks. Illegal mining activities have long been associated with environmental degradation, including deforestation, soil erosion, river siltation, and the destruction of protected watersheds.
Authorities emphasized that sustained law enforcement operations, combined with close coordination among government agencies, remain essential in protecting the country’s natural resources and ensuring that mineral extraction activities comply with environmental laws and regulations.
The Philippine National Police also renewed its appeal to the public to remain vigilant and immediately report any suspected illegal mining activities or other violations of environmental laws to the nearest police station or concerned government agencies.
Officials said community participation is crucial in preserving the environment, protecting local communities from the harmful effects of illegal mining, and ensuring the sustainable use of the country’s natural resources.