The Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) has linked 20 Chinese nationals arrested in recent operations in the Davao Region to suspected illegal mining activities, following the discovery of equipment and explosives at one of the sites.
The arrests were carried out on Wednesday in separate operations in Barangay Napnapan, Pantukan, Davao de Oro, and Barangay Apokon, Tagum City, Davao del Norte.
The joint operation was conducted by the Bureau of Immigration 11 (BI 11) and the 10th Infantry Division under EastMinCom.
EastMinCom said in a statement that the operations were part of an intensified, intelligence-driven campaign against illegal economic activities in Eastern Mindanao.
EastMinCom added that the Chinese nationals were initially apprehended for alleged violations of the Philippine Immigration Act of 1940, particularly provisions prohibiting unauthorized engagement in economic activities.
EastMinCom reported that during the operations, authorities uncovered what is believed to be a site of illegal mining activities, where heavy equipment, explosives, and other undocumented materials were seized.
Initial findings indicate possible involvement of the group in unauthorized mining, although this remains subject to further verification. Investigators are also assessing potential violations of the Philippine Mining Act of 1995.
“All apprehended individuals are currently under the custody of the Bureau of Immigration for documentation, verification of immigration status, and the initiation of appropriate deportation proceedings, as warranted,” said EastMinCom spokesperson Col. Rosa Ma. Cristina Rosete-Manuel.
Manuel noted that deeper investigations are ongoing to determine the extent of the group’s operations, including possible links to transnational networks engaged in illegal economic activities.
“Further investigation is underway to determine the full scope of the activities, including possible links to transnational networks and other entities engaged in unlawful economic operations in the region,” Manuel said.
The military underscored that the operation highlights its continued efforts to protect national resources and enforce the law in Eastern Mindanao.
“This operation underscores EastMinCom’s firm commitment, in partnership with law enforcement and regulatory agencies, to uphold the rule of law, safeguard national resources, and maintain a secure and stable environment in Eastern Mindanao,” she said.
EastMinCom also called for stronger cooperation among communities, local government units, and concerned agencies to help detect and report suspicious activities.
“The command likewise calls for sustained vigilance and deeper multi-stakeholder cooperation… This unified approach is vital to strengthening enforcement efforts, safeguarding national resources, and sustaining a secure, stable, and rules-based environment across Eastern Mindanao,” Manuel added.
