Seven Chinese nationals were apprehended during an environmental law enforcement operation in Barangay Tuburan, Cagayan de Oro on 23 July 2025. The operation, a collaborative effort by various law enforcement agencies, was carried out to curb illegal mining activities in the region.

The operation was jointly conducted by the Headquarters Regional Maritime Unit X, Misamis Oriental Maritime Police Station, Opol Municipal Police Station, Philippine National Police (PNP) Regional Mobile Force Battalion X, and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Region X, through the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) Initao.

The individuals were arrested for violating several environmental laws, including Republic Act (RA) No. 7942, or the Philippine Mining Act of 1995, Presidential Decree (PD) No. 705, the Revised Forestry Code of the Philippines, and PD No. 1067, the Water Code of the Philippines.

Authorities seized significant mining equipment during the operation, including two hydraulic excavators, one separator, one wheel loader, two rolls of carpet/matting, one sack of washed sand, two water pumps, and one roll of water hose. The total estimated value of the confiscated equipment is Php 18,922,500.

The arrested individuals are currently in the custody of the Misamis Oriental Maritime Police Station, while the seized equipment, including the hydraulic excavators and wheel loader, was turned over to the Local Government Unit of Tuburan, Cagayan de Oro City for safekeeping. Other recovered items remain in the custody of the Misamis Oriental Maritime Police Station in coordination with the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) Region X.

Strengthening Enforcement Efforts

DENR Region X Regional Executive Director Henry A. Adornado commended the efforts of the law enforcement agencies involved in the operation, thanking them for their vital role in strengthening collaboration to sustain unified efforts in Environmental and Natural Resources (ENR) law enforcement.

“We deeply appreciate the collaboration between the Philippine National Police, Maritime Police, and DENR. This operation highlights the crucial role of all sectors in safeguarding our environment,” Adornado said.

He also urged citizens to remain vigilant and proactive in protecting the environment, encouraging the public to report any suspicious activities or violations of environmental laws in their communities.

“The success of this operation should be a reminder that responsible resource management is vital for our community's well-being. We need everyone’s help to protect our natural resources,” Adornado added.

The case is currently under investigation, with further legal actions expected as authorities continue to examine the seized equipment and other recovered materials in collaboration with the Mines and Geosciences Bureau.