Several government agencies are set to be investigated in connection with the alleged illegal and hazardous “radioactive” operations of the Phil-Sanjia Steel Plant in Misamis Oriental, linked to businessman Tony Yang.

The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) confirmed that they will conduct “backtracking” to determine possible lapses or negligence by government offices involved in monitoring the facility, which is located inside the PHIVIDEC Industrial Authority estate under the Department of National Defense (DND).

PAOCC Executive Director Undersecretary Benjamin Acorda said Defense Secretary Gilberto “Gibo” Teodoro Jr. has expressed openness to the ongoing probe, signaling inter-agency coordination in addressing the reported violations.

Authorities said the investigation stems from the discovery of alleged hazardous practices inside the steel plant, which has raised concerns over regulatory compliance and environmental safety.

NBI Director Melvin Matibag emphasized that the probe will also cover past operations, particularly since the company’s establishment in 2017. He also pointed to the influence of individuals connected to the project during the previous administration.

“Michael Yang is a very powerful personality at that time... There are initial reports that nanggaling siya sa China, but it's yet to be validated,” Matibag said.

Authorities added that the inquiry will include links to Tony Yang, the reported brother of former presidential economic adviser Michael Yang, as part of efforts to determine accountability and possible violations over the plant’s operations.