- NBI XI operation vs. illegal quarrying nets 13 suspects
THE NATIONAL Bureau of Investigation (NBI) XI filed cases on Tuesday, Nov. 19, against 13 individuals for alleged illegal quarrying during an operation in Barangay Tamugan, Marilog District.
In a press briefing on Tuesday, NBI XI spokesperson Elias Leaño said the suspects, aged 19 to 40, will face a charge under the Philippine Mining Act (Republic Act 7942) and Presidential Decree (PD) 1586.
“Whoever is directly and personally involved in the illegal activity is responsible. But the individuals behind these operations—those who orchestrate the illegal activity—will also be charged on a regular basis. They will be subject to inquest proceedings,” Leaño explained.
“We have evidence, including a list of construction firms regularly delivering or transporting materials from the illegal quarrying operations. This isn’t just one individual—it’s a syndicate. Each person plays a specific role to ensure the success of their criminal activities,” he added.
In an interview with one of the arrested individuals, he denied his involvement as he insisted that he was simply washing clothes in the river at the time. However, Leaño said they would continue to investigate his involvement.
Leaño further explained that many construction firms resort to illegal quarry products because they are cheaper than legal companies. As a result, they undermine legitimate businesses and eat into the government’s tax collections.
“We are also investigating whether the area is a protected zone. A portion of the foothill of Mt. Apo is considered protected, so we will consult the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to determine if Tamugan River, which is part of Marilog District, falls within this protected area,” Leaño said.
Leaño also pointed out that illegal quarrying will persist unless government workers involved in such activities are held accountable. “Some government employees are in cahoots with these operations,” he said.
Leaño confirmed that NBI XI launched the operation upon the request from the City Environment and Natural Resources Office, which noted the rampant illegal quarrying in the area and nearby regions, including parts of the boundary between Bukidnon and Davao City.
Although the CENRO’s request was filed more than a year ago, previous operations by the NBI had been unsuccessful.
In this recent operation, authorities confiscated heavy equipment, including two dump trucks, one backhoe, and other tools used for the excavation and transportation of minerals.
Leaño clarified they could not reveal the identity of the person behind the illegal quarrying at this time because he was not present during the operation. However, they have strong evidence linking him to the crimes. “We believe he is well-connected and has been operating without interruption for quite some time,” Leaño said.
Regarding the 13 arrested individuals, Leaño suggested that some may not have been aware they were involved in illegal activities. The group’s total size ranged from 20 to 30 people, with some escaping during the operation.
Leaño further explained the environmental risks associated with illegal quarrying. “One major issue in Davao City is flooding. Unregulated quarrying disrupts the natural flow of water, leading to imbalances in river systems. While we are not environmental experts, it’s clear that widespread environmental abuse can harm local communities,” he said.
Barangay officials involved?
NBI XI assistant regional director Gerald Intes added that city officials had conducted several surveillance operations over reports of illegal quarrying. “The law states that all minerals and land extracted belong to the state, and private individuals cannot profit from them without the proper documentation,” Intes said.
Intes also mentioned that they decided to bypass barangay officials since it could potentially sabotage operations.
“There were reports suggesting that some barangay officials may have been complicit. This complicates our efforts but we will continue to monitor and validate the situation,” he explained.
Leaño concluded by emphasizing the significance of the operation, which he described as a major step in addressing Davao City’s environmental challenges, including flood control. “Local and national officials must work together to prevent a potential catastrophe,” he urged.
The NBI XI also urged the public to report any illegal quarrying activities. “We encourage citizens to contact the NBI if they witness illegal activities. Our agents can assess the situation and take action,” Leaño said.
Photo courtesy of Rhoda Grace B Saron
