Photo courtesy of PRO-13.
Authorities in the Caraga Region apprehended 61 individuals, including two Chinese, during intensified operations against illegal mining from January to February 2026.
The Philippine National Police Regional Office-13 conducted the raids in coordination with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources Region-13 across Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur, Agusan del Norte, and Agusan del Sur.
Data from PRO-13 showed that operations in Surigao del Sur led to seven arrests, including the two Chinese, while two separate raids in Agusan del Norte resulted in 10 suspects taken into custody.
Surigao del Norte operations accounted for 28 arrests, and a separate mission in Agusan del Sur led to 16 individuals being apprehended.
Maj. Jennifer Omiter, chief information officer of PRO-13, said the operations are part of ongoing efforts to protect the environment and preserve the region’s natural resources.
All arrested individuals face charges under Republic Act No. 7942, the Philippine Mining Act, for engaging in unauthorized mining activities.
PRO-13 Director Brig. Gen. Marcial Mariano Magistrado IV noted that illegal mining endangers both natural resources and the livelihoods of local communities.
He called on all stakeholders to cooperate in safeguarding Caraga’s environmental heritage for the benefit of current and future generations.