DAVAO ORIENTAL — The Provincial Government has escalated its campaign against illegal and environmentally destructive mining activities, launching renewed enforcement operations in Barangay Marayag, Lupon, even as it awaits decisive national government action on the long-standing mining controversy in Macambol.
The crackdown follows verified reports from the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (ENRO) confirming the resumption of unauthorized mineral extraction along the Sumlog River. In response, Governor Nelson L. Dayanghirang immediately mobilized a composite enforcement force to implement Executive Order No. 72, Series of 2025, which mandates a province-wide campaign against illegal quarrying, hauling, and mineral transport.
The renewed illegal operations persisted despite Lupon’s earlier issuance of Executive Order No. 38, Series of 2025, already ordering a halt to quarrying activities in the affected area.
ENRO Acting Department Head Derbert B. General led the Composite Task Force—composed of the Philippine National Police, the Philippine Army’s 701st Infantry Brigade and 66th Infantry Battalion, the Provincial Information Office, and the Barangay Council of Marayag—in conducting nonstop monitoring, checkpoints, patrols, and direct enforcement. These operations have resulted in the confiscation of illegally extracted ores, equipment, and vehicles used in the illicit activity.
Governor Dayanghirang reiterated his administration’s uncompromising stance against illegal mining, citing its immediate and long-term dangers to communities, watersheds, and critical ecosystems.
“Ang pagpanalipod sa atong kinaiyahan dili na puwede dugay-dugayan. Ang Sumlog River, uban pa nga mga dapit sa Davao Oriental, kinahanglan nato bantayan para sa atong mga anak ug umaabot nga henerasyon,” he said.
Part of a Broader Provincial Effort
The operations in Marayag form part of a wider provincial campaign to safeguard Davao Oriental’s environment—efforts mirrored in the province’s firm opposition to the controversial mining operations in Macambol.
Governor Dayanghirang revealed that the provincial government has already filed a formal complaint regarding the Macambol mining project, elevating the issue to the DENR Secretary, the Mindanao Development Authority (MINDA), and even the Office of the President.
The complaint outlines concerns from residents, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, and environmental assessments pointing to risks of irreversible damage to Macambol’s protected ecosystems.
“We have already done our part. The documents are with the national offices and with the President. We are now waiting for their response. Our stand remains firm: dili nato tugotan ang bisan unsang hulga sa kinaiyahan sa Davao Oriental,” the governor stressed.
Provincial Government Praised for Strong, Unified Effort
The province’s intensified actions highlight the firm and coordinated leadership of the Governor and the Provincial Government—mobilizing law enforcement, local communities, and technical agencies to protect the province’s natural resources.
Officials and partner stakeholders commended the provincial leadership for its swift response, strict enforcement, and proactive stance, recognizing that illegal mining poses serious threats to safety, biodiversity, and long-term sustainability.
Strict Penalties and Public Advisory
The Provincial Government reminded the public that violators of illegal mining activities face severe penalties under:
- Republic Act 7942 (Philippine Mining Act of 1995)
- Republic Act 7076 (Small-Scale Mining Act of 1991)
These penalties include arrests, confiscation of equipment and minerals, penalties, and permanent suspension of operations.
A public advisory has been issued urging residents to report illegal excavation, nighttime hauling, or suspicious mineral transport to ENRO, the police, barangay officials, or nearby military detachments.
A Collective Duty
“Ang pagpanalipod sa kinaiyahan katungdanan sa tanan,” Governor Dayanghirang emphasized, calling on communities to remain vigilant and united in protecting the province’s remaining natural treasures.
As Davao Oriental continues its aggressive operations on the ground while awaiting national government action on the Macambol complaint, the Provincial Government reaffirms its unwavering commitment: Davao Oriental’s environment is non-negotiable—and it will be defended at all costs.