INQUIRER FILE PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines — A case buildup is “ongoing” on the illegal mining operations in Camarines Norte, where some Chinese workers were arrested, Environment Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga said on Wednesday.
In a press briefing, Yulo-Loyzaga said the arrested Chinese workers may face criminal complaints.
“What we know is that, in fact, this operation has a history. And in 2023, we also know that they had completed their permitting requirements and had been permitted to operate,” she said.
“However, now, they have been found to have been operating also beyond the area where they have been permitted to operate. And, of course, there is the presence of foreign workers,” she added.
The chief of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources did not disclose the name of the mining company. She only said it is a small-scale operation where “heavy local government and local community components” might be involved.
READ: 11 Chinese nationals arrested for illegal mining in Camarines Norte
Last October 13, authorities arrested 11 Chinese workers for their alleged involvement in the illegal construction of a mineral processing plant in Camarines Norte.
It was a joint operation of the Bureau of Immigration, Presidential Anti Organized Crime Commission, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and the Philippine National Police.
Yulo-Loyzaga said another mining operation at the boundary of Cagayan de Oro and Iligan was blocked by authorities. Foreigners were also discovered working there.
She did not provide details about it.