DUMINGAG, Zamboanga del Sur — Authorities seized 379 sacks of suspected mineral ore during a joint operation in Barangay Dulop, Dumingag, Zamboanga del Sur on Saturday, October 31, as provincial authorities intensified their campaign against illegal mining.
The operation was carried out in Purok 7, Barangay Dulop, following the provincial government’s strengthened enforcement efforts against the unauthorized extraction and transport of mineral resources.
The sacks containing rocks believed to be mineral ore were discovered near a corn dryer reportedly owned by a certain Michael Panlaan. Authorities said Panlaan claimed ownership of the seized materials.
Based on an initial assessment, the suspected mineral ore could have an estimated value of more than ₱900,000. However, authorities stressed that the amount remains preliminary and is still subject to verification and official confirmation by the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.
Provincial authorities said the operation was conducted in line with Governor Divina Grace Yu’s directive to strengthen the province-wide campaign against illegal mining and other unauthorized activities involving the extraction of natural resources.
The intensified campaign is aimed at preventing the unlawful removal of minerals while protecting the province’s natural resources from unregulated exploitation.
Authorities have yet to disclose the exact mineral composition and final assessed value of the materials pending technical examination and confirmation by the MGB-DENR.
The seizure highlights continuing concerns over unauthorized mining activities in Zamboanga del Sur, where the extraction and movement of mineral resources are subject to government regulation, environmental safeguards and the necessary permits.
Further investigation is expected to determine the origin of the suspected mineral ore, whether the materials were legally extracted and transported, and whether violations of mining and environmental laws may have been committed.
Authorities have not yet announced whether charges will be filed in connection with the seizure.