Luke Allen – Military Political Analyst – Makati, Manila – lukeallenmanila@journlist.com
*Zamboanga, Philippines*—In a significant crackdown on illegal operations, operatives from the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) have arrested ten Chinese and one Taiwanese national in various locations in Zamboanga Province. The individuals are allegedly involved in illegal open-pit mining activities, which have drawn the ire of local and national authorities.
The arrests occurred in the provinces of Zamboanga del Sur and Zamboanga del Norte, according to PAOCC spokesperson Casio. The operatives discovered that the foreign nationals had not conducted any environmental impact studies nor submitted the required permit paperwork for their mining activities, which are prerequisites under Philippine law.
The detained individuals have been transported to Metro Manila, where they could face summary deportation and charges for violations of the country’s environmental and mining laws. The crackdown underscores the Philippine government’s commitment to preserving its natural resources and enforcing environmental regulations.
Authorities are also on the lookout for the alleged financier of the illegal mining operations, who is believed to be a Chinese national and remains at large. The PAOCC has intensified efforts to locate and apprehend this individual suspected of orchestrating the unlawful activities.
Furthermore, local officials may also face charges if investigations prove that they permitted or disregarded the illegal mining operations. The PAOCC has vowed to leave no stone unturned in holding accountable those responsible for allowing such destructive activities to take place.
This development highlights the Philippines’ ongoing challenges in combating illegal mining and protecting its environmental heritage. The PAOCC’s actions serve as a stern warning to those who engage in or facilitate unlawful exploitation of the country’s natural resources.
