Ten Chinese nationals were arrested by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) in connection with their alleged involvement in an illegal large-scale mining operation in Libona, Bukidnon.

According to NBI Spokesperson Palmer Mallari, 16 Filipinos were also apprehended at the mining site in Barangay Gango, and are now also facing charges, RH 19 Jun Dimacutac reported on Friday.

The NBI confiscated valuable mineral resources that were mined from the area such as copper ore; as well as heavy machinery like a specialized processing plant; and heavy equipment like backhoes, dump trucks, and industrial generator sets.

Moreover, a tunnel system for high-volume mineral extraction was discovered on-site. Further exploration yielded a stockpile of commercial explosives, which were also seized by authorities.

The Chinese nationals were immediately brought before the Prosecutor’s Office. They have been charged for violating Republic Act No. 7942, also known as the Philippine Mining Act of 1995.

NBI Acting Director Atty. Angelito DLP Magno said this operation should serve as a warning for other foreigners who would violate the law on the unauthorized exploitation of the country’s natural resources.

Mallari revealed that the operation was a joint effort among the NBI Bukidnon District Office, NBI Northeastern Mindanao Regional Office, Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), and the Libuna Municipal Police Station.