Authorities from the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC), and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) raided and sealed off a steel manufacturing facility in Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental, on Friday, May 15, 2026, following allegations of illegal handling and possible manufacturing of “hazardous materials.”
According to a report by RH Edniel Parrosa on Saturday, the operation covered a steel plant reportedly operated by Phil. Sanjia Steel Corp., which had earlier been the subject of a search warrant over reported irregularities, including alleged health and safety violations.
Authorities said the raid stemmed from a complaint involving the suspected illegal manufacturing or handling of unidentified hazardous substances inside the facility.
Personnel from the NBI, PAOCC, and AFP entered the facility and placed it under control. The site remains secured as investigations continue.
On May 16, Department of National Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr., along with officials including Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission Executive Director retired Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr., inspected the locked-down compound. Members of the media, including DZRH News, were also present during the inspection.
The facility is located within the PHIVIDEC Industrial Estate, a semi-autonomous industrial zone under the supervision of the Department of National Defense, which officials noted as relevant to questions surrounding regulatory oversight in the area.
Teodoro said that 69 foreign nationals and one Filipino were found inside the premises and are currently undergoing inquest proceedings. Officials are also verifying whether the foreign nationals are properly documented.
Teodoro raised concerns over the continued operation of the facility, alleging that it is linked to Chinese businessman Tony Yang, who has previously been associated with Philippine offshore gaming operations (POGO) and the brother of alleged drug lord Michael Yang.
For Teodoro, the incident is considered a threat to national security.
“Peke siya na Pilipino, diba sinabi niya ‘yung lolo niya pineke ‘yung ano niya… Ta’s kapayid siya ni Michael Yang na wanted na drug lord. So, hindi tayo nagsasalita ng panaginip dito, tunay ito, inimbestigahan pa nga sa Senado ‘yun,” Teodoro said.
Teodoro said five incorporators of the company remain at large as investigations continue.
The DND chief warned that obstruction of justice charges may be filed against anyone who attempts to interfere with the ongoing operation and inquiry.
