By Alexander Lopez

ILLEGAL MINING BUST. The Chinese nationals and three locals arrested for illegal mining in Rosario, Agusan del Sur on Tuesday (March 3, 2026). Seized from them were equipment worth PHP6.1 million, including excavators and a generator set. (Photo courtesy of PRO-13 Information Office)

BUTUAN CITY – Two Chinese nationals and three residents were arrested Tuesday for engaging in illegal mining activities in Barangay Wasian, Rosario, Agusan del Sur, the Police Regional Office 13 (Caraga) reported Wednesday.

The operation, conducted with support from the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) in Bunawan, led to the seizure of two excavators, a generator set, a water pump, 12 artificial turf mats, and two wooden pans worth PHP6.1 million.

The PRO-13 identified the suspects by their aliases – Chinese nationals Chen, 50, and Ty, 55, both from Hubei province, China; Boy, 36, of Esperanza, Agusan del Sur; Jean, 36, of Marilog District, Davao City; and Jenny, 41, of Bunawan, Agusan del Sur.

PRO-13 Director Brig. Gen. Marcial Mariano Magistrado IV said charges for violation of Sections 102 and 103 of Republic Act 7429, or the Philippine Mining Act of 1995, have been filed at the Provincial Prosecutor’s Office in Prosperidad.

“The Philippine National Police in Caraga and partner agencies remain fully committed to intensifying the campaign against illegal mining and other crimes that endanger the environment and natural resources,” Magistrado said in a statement.

He assured residents that PRO-13 would continue to uphold the law and advance efforts toward protecting the environment, encouraging the public to report any information on illegal mining and other illegal activities. (PNA)