10/02/2026
ILLEGAL MINING SITE BUSTED IN SURIGAO DEL SUR; 5 ARRESTED, HEAVY EQUIPMENT SEIZED
The Philippine National Police (PNP), in close coordination with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and other government partners, successfully conducted a joint operation against illegal mining activities in Surigao del Sur, resulting in the arrest of five individuals and the seizure of heavy equipment and various mining-related materials.
The operation was carried out from 5:00 PM of February 4, 2026 until 5:00 AM of February 5, 2026 at Barangay Guinhalinan, Barobo, Surigao del Sur. DENR Region XIII Enforcement Division served as the lead unit, with tactical support provided by 24 personnel of the PNP Special Action Force (SAF) from 14SAC and 1SAB. The mission was also supported by the Barobo Municipal Police Station, Surigao del Sur Police Provincial Office, and other operating units from partner agencies.
Authorities arrested five suspects composed of two foreign nationals and three Filipino individuals during the enforcement operation.
A search and clearing operation at the site led to the recovery of one pick-up vehicle, three excavators, and various equipment and supplies believed to have been used in illegal mining activities. Among the seized items were hydraulic oil, grease, coolant, welding equipment, electronic batteries, electrical wires, fuel containers, fuel pump, grinders, shovels, water pump, battery charger, excavator bucket teeth, and a Starlink set, along with a piece of processed mineral and other assorted tools.
The arrested individuals and confiscated items are now under the custody of the Barobo Municipal Police Station under the Surigao del Sur Police Provincial Office for documentation and proper disposition.
Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., Chief, Philippine National Police, commended the operating units for their swift and coordinated action, emphasizing that illegal mining is a serious offense that harms both the environment and the communities that depend on it.
“Illegal mining is not a minor violation. It destroys our forests, contaminates our waterways, and threatens the safety and livelihood of entire communities. Kapag hinayaan natin ito, ang talo ay ang mamamayan,” said PGEN Nartatez Jr.
He stressed that the PNP remains firm in supporting national efforts to protect the country’s natural resources and hold accountable those who exploit the environment for personal profit.
“This operation sends a strong message that we will not tolerate environmental crimes. Walang puwang sa batas ang mga sumisira sa ating kalikasan. The PNP will continue to work hand in hand with DENR and other agencies to stop illegal mining operations wherever they exist,” he added.
Chief PNP, PGEN Nartatez Jr. also urged the public to remain vigilant and to immediately report suspicious activities in their areas, particularly in remote locations where illegal operations may be concealed.
“Malaking tulong ang impormasyon mula sa ating mga kababayan. Kapag may napapansin kayong kahina-hinalang aktibidad, i-report agad o itawag sa unified 911. Sama-sama nating protektahan ang ating kalikasan at ang kinabukasan ng susunod na henerasyon,” PGEN Nartatez Jr. said.
The Philippine National Police reiterates its commitment to sustained operations against illegal mining and other environmental violations, reinforcing its duty to protect not only peace and order, but also the country’s natural wealth and ecological balance.
These efforts reflect the PNP’s unwavering resolve to uphold the rule of law and deliver responsive public service in line with its guiding mantra: Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat at Nararamdaman.
(PNP-PIO)