BUTUAN CITY — Authorities arrested four individuals engaged in illegal mining during a dawn operation in Purok 2, Barangay Bilay, on December 3, 2025, as the Butuan City Police Office (BCPO) ramped up its enforcement against environmental violations.
The arrested suspects were identified only by their aliases: “Rom” and “John,” both residents of Barangay Bilay, and “El” and “Jer,” residents of Barangay Aupagan. They were caught in the act of conducting unauthorized mining operations.
The anti-illegal mining operation was led by personnel of the Butuan City Mobile Force Company under the command of PLTCOL Randie M. Azote, with support from CENRO, the BCMFC SWAT, and R-PSB Antongalon. The initiative aligns with the firm directive of City Director PCOL Rommel D. Villamor to intensify the city’s campaign against destructive, unlawful activities.
The suspects were apprehended for violating Section 103 of Republic Act 7942 (Philippine Mining Act of 1995), City Ordinance No. 7244-2025, and DENR Administrative Order 2010-21. They are currently detained at the BCMFC headquarters while authorities process the necessary documentation and evidence.
“We will not allow these illegal mining activities to continue destroying our environment,” PCOL Villamor stressed. “BCPO will remain aggressive against all forms of illegal activities in the city. I urge Butuanons to continue supporting BACAP by reporting any unlawful acts. For emergencies or crimes, immediately contact our Unified Emergency Hotline 911.”
Authorities reiterated that illegal mining not only damages natural resources but also puts communities at risk. The BCPO vows to sustain stricter operations to protect the environment and uphold the law.