DENR intensifies crackdown on illegal mining in Surigao Sur
By Nida Grace P. Barcena
TANDAG CITY (PIA) — The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Caraga intensified its enforcement efforts against environmental violations following the successful shutdown of illegal mining operations along the Carac-an River in Barangay Lobo, Cantilan, Surigao del Sur.
DENR’s heightened enforcement effort aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s order to strengthen environmental protection, uphold the rule of law, and promote sustainable management of the country’s natural resources under the Bagong Pilipinas governance agenda.
The joint anti-illegal mining operation, on April 9-10, resulted in the arrest of nine Chinese nationals and one Filipino, along with the confiscation of heavy equipment and gold ore materials valued at approximately ₱50.5 million, reinforcing the government’s commitment to protecting natural resources and preserving environmental sustainability.
Strengthening inter-agency enforcement
The operation was conducted through coordinated efforts among multiple government agencies, including the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) Region XIII, Philippine National Police (PNP) units, Philippine Air Force (PAF), National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), and enforcement teams from the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) Cantilan and the DENR Regional Enforcement Division.
According to DENR Caraga Regional Executive Director Maritess M. Ocampo, the enforcement activity commenced at around 9:00 p.m. on April 9 and concluded successfully at approximately 9:30 p.m. on April 10.
Authorities seized several pieces of heavy equipment used in illegal mining operations, including dump trucks, excavators, payloaders, and a pick-up truck. Other confiscated materials included generator sets, fuel containers, steel frames, and fine sand containing traces of gold.
The arrested individuals are currently detained at the Cantilan Municipal Police Station pending documentation and inquest proceedings.
Upholding environmental laws and accountability
Authorities confirmed that the arrested individuals will face charges for violations of Republic Act No. 7942, also known as the Philippine Mining Act of 1995, as well as provisions under the Expanded National Integrated Protected Areas System Act (E-NIPAS Act) and the Chainsaw Act of 2002.
These
violations include illegal exploration, theft of mineral resources,
unauthorized timber cutting within protected areas, and possession of
unregistered chainsaws.
Ocampo
emphasized that the enforcement action highlights the DENR’s commitment to
safeguarding the environment and preventing illegal exploitation of natural
resources.
“This
operation demonstrates the DENR’s unwavering commitment to enforce
environmental laws and protect our natural resources from illegal
exploitation,” Ocampo said.
She added
that the agency continues to coordinate with the Bureau of Immigration (BI)
regarding the custody and legal processing of the foreign nationals involved.
Meanwhile,
the Land Transportation Office (LTO) and intelligence units are assisting in
tracing the ownership of an abandoned dump truck recovered during the
operation, which has been placed under “red alert” status.
Protecting ecosystems and community safety
Illegal mining activities pose significant risks to the environment, particularly to river ecosystems and surrounding communities.
The Carac-an River, where the illegal operation was discovered, serves as an important natural resource supporting local livelihoods, agriculture, and biodiversity. Unregulated mining activities in river systems can lead to soil erosion, water contamination, and habitat destruction, potentially affecting both downstream communities and aquatic ecosystems.
Through strengthened enforcement and inter-agency collaboration, the government aims to mitigate environmental degradation while ensuring accountability among violators.
Sustaining environmental protection efforts
The DENR underscored the importance of public participation in reporting environmental violations and supporting conservation initiatives.
By promoting stronger compliance with environmental regulations and enhancing coordination among law enforcement agencies, government authorities continue to reinforce national efforts toward sustainable resource management and environmental protection.
The agency encouraged communities to remain vigilant and to cooperate with authorities in safeguarding natural resources, emphasizing that collective action plays a vital role in preventing illegal activities that threaten ecological balance and public safety.
As enforcement operations continue nationwide, initiatives like the recent crackdown in Surigao del Sur demonstrate how government agencies are working together to uphold environmental laws, protect ecosystems, and promote responsible resource use in support of long-term national development. (NGPB, PIA Surigao del Sur)
