INITAO, Misamis Oriental — April 17, 2026 — A deepening controversy over alleged illegal mining operations has gripped Barangay Sinalac in Initao after drone footage captured what authorities suspect to be unauthorized excavation activities—now raising serious questions about the involvement of government-owned equipment and the possible misuse of public funds.
The footage, obtained by a member of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, shows ongoing excavation in a site not officially designated for any approved mining or infrastructure project. Initial findings indicate that a backhoe allegedly used in the operation is owned by the Provincial Capitol, triggering outrage among local officials and residents.
Board Member Dexter Yasay, chairing concerns over infrastructure and environmental accountability, did not mince words in condemning the situation.
“It is unacceptable for the Provincial Capitol to shoulder fuel and operational costs if the equipment is being used by private individuals, especially in an illegal activity,” Yasay said.
Yasay further revealed that the excavation—believed to be linked to a mining operation—may have connections to individuals associated with Governor Juliette Uy, intensifying calls for accountability at the highest level of the provincial government.
As of press time, Governor Uy has yet to issue a formal response to the allegations.
Conflicting accounts on ground operations
The barangay captain of Sinalac contradicted claims that the excavation was part of a legitimate road project. According to him, the area currently being dug was not the location originally requested for road repair and widening.
He added that he had already ordered the cessation of operations in the area after discovering the discrepancy.
Meanwhile, a female resident admitted that the provincial backhoe had been used for at least three days for a road-related request in the barangay. However, she said she no longer knew where the equipment was deployed afterward—raising suspicions that the project may have been used as a cover for mining activities.
Yasay described the road repair justification as a possible “scapegoat” to mask the real operation.
Multi-agency investigation underway
In response to the growing controversy, a full-scale investigation was launched on April 17 involving multiple government agencies, including the Philippine National Police (PNP), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB), and various provincial offices such as PLENRO, PEO, and PIO.
Also present were representatives from the local government unit of Initao, barangay officials, Indigenous Peoples groups, and members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan.
The inquiry follows an earlier probe initiated in late March by the Committee on Infrastructure, chaired by Board Member Panky Acain, which already flagged irregularities involving heavy equipment operators linked to the area.
Pattern of controversy?
The issue comes on the heels of a previous illegal quarry controversy in Medina, Misamis Oriental, where Governor Uy publicly defended individuals linked to the operation. During a flag-raising ceremony, Uy drew criticism after stating she had tasked a certain individual with work she preferred not to disclose publicly—remarks that fueled concerns over transparency in provincial dealings.
Now, the Sinalac case appears to reinforce fears of systemic lapses in governance.
“This is not just about legality. This is about the possible abuse of public funds and betrayal of public trust,” Yasay stressed. “The people should not be paying for the fuel and operation of equipment used in illegal activities.”
Public clamor for answers
The revelations have stirred public outrage, with citizens and watchdog groups demanding transparency, accountability, and swift action against those responsible.
Environmental advocates have also raised alarms over the potential ecological damage caused by unregulated mining, particularly in a province already grappling with resource exploitation issues.
As the investigation continues, the spotlight remains firmly on the Provincial Capitol and Governor Uy, whose silence has only amplified public scrutiny.
The unfolding controversy underscores broader concerns about governance, environmental protection, and the integrity of public institutions—issues now under intense public watch.