CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — Authorities dismantled an alleged illegal mining operation and arrested three suspects during a coordinated enforcement action under OPLAN Kalikasan in Barangay Tumpagon on May 4, 2026.
The operation, carried out from 5:00 p.m. to 11:50 p.m., was led by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) Cagayan de Oro City Field Unit in coordination with the CIDG Regional Field Unit 10 Special Operations Team, the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Region 10, and local police units.
Arrested during the raid were three male suspects identified by their aliases “Fred,” “Boy,” and “Jake,” all of legal age. Authorities said the trio was caught in the act of excavating in a mining area without the required permits from the MGB, rendering the operation illegal under Republic Act No. 7942, or the Philippine Mining Act of 1995.
Seized from the site were heavy equipment and various mining tools with an estimated total value of ₱15.6 million. These included backhoes, water pumps, welding machines, generator sets, trommels, and other equipment believed to have been used in ongoing extraction activities.
A report submitted to CIDG Director PMGen. Robert AA Morico II confirmed that the suspects had no legal authority to conduct mining operations in the area.
Morico underscored that under the Philippine Mining Act, all mineral resources—whether located on public or private land—are owned by the State. He stressed that their exploration and utilization must follow strict regulatory processes to ensure environmental protection and the welfare of affected communities.
“The State promotes responsible and sustainable development of mineral resources through proper regulation, ensuring environmental safeguards and protection of community rights,” Morico said.
The crackdown forms part of the intensified implementation of OPLAN Kalikasan, aligned with the strategic directive of Philippine National Police Chief Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. to strengthen environmental law enforcement nationwide.
CIDG leadership also commended Police Col. Jonathan B. Papay, Regional Chief of CIDG Regional Field Unit 10, and the CIDG Cagayan de Oro City team led by Major Gerson A. Soliven for the successful operation.
Authorities said the enforcement action highlights the agency’s continuing commitment to combat illegal mining and protect the country’s natural resources from exploitation.
The CIDG also called on the public to remain vigilant and report environmental law violations, including illegal mining, quarrying, logging, and fishing activities.
“We urge citizens to actively participate in safeguarding our environment. Report violations in your communities, and we will take decisive action,” the agency said.
Charges for violation of Republic Act No. 7942 are being prepared against the arrested suspects.