NBI arrests 13 individuals in Davao City for violating mining laws

DAVAO CITY — Thirteen individuals were apprehended during a National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Region XI operation against an illegal quarry in Barangay Upper Tamugan, Marilog District, Davao City, on Monday, November 18.

The operation was conducted in response to a request from the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) to halt the unauthorized extraction of minerals reportedly backed by influential individuals.

“We have strong evidence pointing to the involvement of local officials in protecting this illegal activity, which has been ongoing for over a year,” Albao said.

Documents believed to be connected to the illicit quarrying were seized during the operation.NBI Region XI Director Lawyer Archie Albao confirmed that the raid followed a series of surveillance activities.

The arrested suspects face charges for violating Republic Act No. 7942, also known as the Philippine Mining Act of 1995, which regulates mineral exploration, development, and utilization in the country. They are also accused of breaching Presidential Decree No. 1586, which requires compliance with environmental impact assessment standards, including securing an Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC).

Mining Law Violations

• Republic Act No. 7942: The law prohibits unauthorized extraction of mineral resources and imposes penalties for non-compliance with legal permits and licenses.
• Presidential Decree No. 1586: Establishes environmental protection measures, mandating proper documentation and compliance before any quarrying or mining activity can commence.

According to the NBI, the operation also revealed indications that some barangay officials might have received financial benefits from the quarry’s activities. Investigations are underway to identify all individuals involved, including those who may have provided protection for the illegal operation.

Among those detained was a 21-year-old laborer who claimed he was unaware of the illegality of the operations. “I was washing my clothes when the NBI swooped in, and I was arrested,” he said. Another suspect stated that he worked at the quarry to support his family and was unaware of the operation’s legal violations.

The illegal extraction of minerals not only depletes natural resources but also poses severe environmental and safety risks. The Philippine Mining Act of 1995 emphasizes responsible mining practices, ensuring that all operations adhere to environmental standards and proper permitting processes.

City officials have reiterated the need for stricter enforcement of mining laws and penalties for violators to deter unauthorized quarrying activities. Lawyer Albao assured the public that the NBI will pursue those behind the illegal operations and hold them accountable under the law.

This raid underscores the ongoing challenges of enforcing mining regulations and protecting natural resources from exploitation. Authorities are urging local communities to report similar activities to prevent further environmental degradation.