THE PROVINCIAL Government of Davao Oriental intensified its crackdown against illegal mining activities in the province.
Following verified reports from the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) that illegal mineral extraction had resumed along the Sumlog River, enforcement operations were carried out in Barangay Marayag, Lupon.
The provincial government immediately ordered a composite force to enforce Executive Order No. 72, Series of 2025, directing a province-wide crackdown on unauthorized mining, hauling, and transport of sand, gravel, and other minerals.
Despite the Municipal Government of Lupon’s earlier issuance of Executive Order No. 38, Series of 2025, which mandated the suspension of quarrying operations in the affected area, the illegal activities persisted.
PENRO acting department head Derbert B. General led a Composite Task Force, which included the Philippine National Police, the Philippine Army’s 701st Infantry Brigade, 66th Infantry Battalion, the Provincial Information Office (PIO), and the Barangay Council of Marayag.
The task force, upon continuous monitoring and direct enforcement, resulted in the confiscation of illegally extracted ores, equipment, and vehicles used in illicit operations.
Governor Nelson Dayanghirang reiterated that illegal mining in any form is not tolerated in the province, noting its harmful impact on the environment, community safety, and the integrity of the province’s natural resources.
“We have to safeguard our Sumlog River and other areas in Davao Oriental for our children and for the next generation,” Dayanghirang said.
He added that the crackdown in Marayag is part of the broader provincial effort to safeguard the environment, in addition to the continued effort against the mining operations in Macambol.
The provincial government has already filed a formal complaint against the Macambol mining project to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources Secretary, the Mindanao Development Authority (MINDA), and the Office of the President of the Philippines.
The complaint is composed of the community’s fears, environmental risks, and potential long-term damage to protected ecosystems surrounding Macambol.
To note, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan joined the governor in appealing for intervention and suspension of activities pending a thorough review of the mining operations.
“We have already done our part. The documents are with the national offices and the President,” he said.
While the provincial government is awaiting for response, Dayanchirang stressed the stand remains firm against any mining operations that threaten the province.
Violators of illegal mining activities will face serious penalties under Republic Act No. 7942 (Philippine Mining Act of 1995) and Republic Act No. 7076 (Small-Scale Mining Act of 1991), including arrest, confiscation of equipment and minerals, fines, and permanent suspension of operations.
The public is advised to immediately report illegal excavation, hauling at night, or suspicious movements of minerals to ENRO, local police, barangay officials, or the nearest military detachment.
