TAMPAKAN, South Cotabato (August 4, 2025) — The Local Government Unit (LGU) of Tampakan has launched a coordinated crackdown on illegal hydraulic mining operations, locally known as banlas, at the boundary of Barangay Pulabato and Barangay Tablu.
Mayor Leonard Escobillo, RN, personally led the focused operation conducted at Sitio Kampo Kilot and Sitio Aspak, in collaboration with the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO), the Tampakan Municipal Police Station, the 1st Provincial Mobile Force Company (PMFC), and the Regional Mobile Force Battalion (RMFB).
During the joint enforcement activity, authorities confiscated numerous mining implements used in the illegal extraction of minerals. Seized items include high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipes of various sizes, two large sluice boxes, three screens, and other mining paraphernalia. All confiscated materials are now under the custody of MENRO Tampakan for proper documentation and legal proceedings.
Illegal hydraulic mining, or banlas, is a destructive method of mineral extraction that uses high-pressure water to erode soil and rock formations, often leading to deforestation, soil degradation, and contamination of water sources.
Mayor Escobillo underscored the LGU’s unwavering commitment to environmental protection and the enforcement of mining and environmental laws. “We are taking concrete steps to protect our natural resources and communities from the harmful effects of illegal mining,” he said.
As part of the intensified campaign, Mayor Escobillo is set to issue an Executive Order to formally establish a dedicated task force against banlas. The task force will strengthen monitoring, enforcement, and prosecution efforts against violators.
The operation sends a clear message that Tampakan is serious about protecting its environment and ensuring that mining activities—if any—comply strictly with existing regulations.