11/02/2026
NBI-PNP-DENR OPERATION HALTS ILLEGAL MINING IN LIBONA, 7 FOREIGNERS ARRESTED
Illegal mining activities in Libona, Bukidnon, were brought to a halt following a police-assisted operation that led to the apprehension of several foreign nationals and the seizure of millions worth of copper ore and mining machinery.
The raid, carried out on February 9, 2026, in Zone 6, Sitio Manlauyan, Brgy. Gango, uncovered a vast underground tunnel used for mineral extraction, as well as heavy equipment including dump trucks, backhoes, large generator sets, and processing plants. Commercial explosives were also found without proper permits, indicating potential use for blasting. Seven Chinese male nationals were taken into custody.
“Operations like this show that the law will be enforced without exception.”
“Ang mga lumalabag sa batas ay hindi natin palalampasin at mananagot sa kanilang ginawa,” said PGEN Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr.
The operation was led by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) NEMRO 10, with coordination from the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), and the Libona Municipal Police Station. PNP Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) units played a vital role in safely clearing commercial explosives, demonstrating the police’s commitment to public safety.
Aligned with its PNP Focused Agenda—a comprehensive program designed to make police service proactive and people-centered—the PNP demonstrated Enhanced Managing Police Operations in high-risk field operations, ensuring discipline, safety, and operational integrity.
“Our personnel are committed to protecting both communities and natural resources.”
“Pinangangalagaan natin ang kaligtasan ng mamamayan at ang ating kalikasan mula sa ilegal na gawain,” PGEN Nartatez added.
As the PNP continues to enforce the law under the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., the public can rely on “Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong mabilis, tapat, at nararamdaman.”
(PNP-PIO)