Agents of the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC), the National Bureau of Investigation–Cybercrime and Forensic Management Investigation Unit (NBI-CFMIU) and partner agencies raided a steel manufacturing plant at Barangay Navaling in the town of Magalang, Pampanga on 18 July 2026.

According to the authorities, Chuangxing Steel Incorporated is allegedly violating Republic Act No. 12305, otherwise known as the Philippine National Nuclear Energy Safety Act, as well as producing steel products that do not comply with Philippine national standards, adding that this violates the Consumer Act of the Philippines.

The said law enforcement operation was conducted after the Cabanatuan City Regional Trial Court Branch 26 issued the Search Warrants against incorporators, directors, and officers of Chuangxing Steel Incorporated.

The Department of National Defense (DND), the Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI), the Philippine Air Force (PAF), and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) cooperated in the said operation that resulted in the rescue and accounting of 323 workers.

These 323 workers are comprised of 283 Filipino employees and 40 Chinese nationals who were on duty during the implementation of the search warrants. The company is reported to have approximately 350 employees.

During the operation, authorities discovered a substantial volume of radioactive-bearing raw materials, by-products, and waste materials containing Thorium isotopes. The inventory and assessment of similar radioactive materials, contaminated equipment, machinery, containers, and other related items remain ongoing.

Additional samples, including finished steel products, were collected and turned over to the Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI) for laboratory examination.

The results of the analysis will determine the filing of additional appropriate charges, including possible violations of Republic Act No. 6969 (Toxic Substances and Hazardous and Nuclear Wastes Control Act) and Republic Act No. 7394 (Consumer Act of the Philippines), should the evidence so warrant.

For purposes of the filing of charges under Republic Act No. 12305, two key company officials were found on-site during the operation.

Meanwhile, 40 Chinese regular employees are being held for further verification after failing to present valid travel and work permits to the authorities. Appropriate immigration and legal procedures are being undertaken in coordination with the concerned government agencies.

PAOCC Executive Director Benjamin C Acorda, Jr. reaffirms its commitment to supporting the government's efforts to uphold the rule of law, protect public health and safety, safeguard national security, and ensure full compliance with Philippine laws governing the possession, handling, transport, and disposal of radioactive and hazardous materials.

The Commission likewise assures the public that the investigation remains ongoing and that all persons found responsible will be dealt with in accordance with existing laws.