Authorities arrested 20 Chinese nationals allegedly involved in illegal mining operations during a joint immigration crackdown conducted on April 22 in Davao Region.
According to a report by Jhun Suter of Aksyon Radyo Davao on "Magandang Umaga Pilipinas", the operation, carried out by the Bureau of Immigration Region 11 in coordination with the 10th and 5th Infantry Divisions of the Philippine Army, led to the discovery of a suspected illegal mining network operating in Pantukan, Davao de Oro, and Tagum City, Davao del Norte.
The arrests were implemented under Mission Orders 2026-151 and 152, targeting foreign nationals found to be in violation of the Philippine Immigration Act of 1940.
During the enforcement of the operation, authorities uncovered an active illegal mining site after the suspects failed to present the necessary permits.
Seized from the area were various mineral resources, heavy equipment, and uniforms believed to be linked to the group’s operations. Among the recovered items were uniforms resembling those of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA), which authorities are now investigating for possible relevance to the suspects’ activities.
Initial investigation revealed that all 20 individuals entered the country on tourist visas but had already overstayed, making them liable for immigration violations. Authorities are also preparing possible charges under the Philippine Mining Act of 1995.
Further findings suggest that the group had long been engaged in small-scale illegal mining in the area, particularly in extracting gold and other valuable minerals, which were allegedly intended for smuggling outside the country.
Major General Alvin Luzon, Commander of the 10th Infantry (Agila) Division, emphasized the importance of inter-agency coordination in addressing not only immigration violations but also activities that threaten the country’s natural resources and national security.
Authorities said investigations are ongoing to determine the full scope of the illegal mining network and identify other individuals who may be involved.
