Illegal dredging in Zambales: LGU should take responsibility, says Palace

MANILA, Philippines—Malacañang said on Thursday, Sept. 12, that the local government of Zambales should take responsibility for illegal dredging in the province.

Presidential spokesman Salvador Panelo said this after seven undocumented Chinese nationals were arrested for alleged involvement in illegal dredging in Masinloc town.

READ: 7 undocumented Chinese workers nabbed in Zambales

“The Zambales government should have done something about it. It’s an illegal act and therefore they should be prosecuted.” Panelo, also chief presidential legal counsel, said in a Palace briefing.

Maj. Jude Bryan Maguddayao, acting Masinloc police chief, identified the Chinese nationals as Shao Shao Chen, Shinu Chen, Xie Yu Hong, Xiu Xiansheng, Zhao Yihung, Gong Yaan, and Jiang Xin.

The foreigners have no visa and working permits, Maguddayao said.

They were turned over to the Bureau of Immigration./TSB