MGB-7 intensifies crackdown versus illegal mining operators

CEBU, Philippines — The Mines and Geosciences Bureau in Central Visayas (MGB)-7 has intensified its campaign against illegal mining and quarrying by forging a stronger partnership with law enforcement agencies, authorizing them to serve as deputized enforcers.

The deputized officers are empowered to investigate, arrest violators, and seize illegally sourced minerals, including conveyances such as trucks and heavy equipment used in unlawful operations.

Under a newly issued Order of Deputation, MGB-7 has formally authorized personnel from the Philippine National Police (PNP), the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), and the Cebu City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CCENRO) to serve as Deputy Environment and Natural Resources Officers (DENROs).

The initiative was reinforced through an enforcement training held recently, which creates a unified front to curb unauthorized extraction activities across the region.

The program aimed to equip participants with both the technical and legal knowledge necessary for effective field enforcement.

Mining Claim Examiner Engr. Jacob M. Densing led discussions anchored on the Philippine Mining Act of 1995 (Republic Act 7942), providing clarity on the distinctions between permits issued by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) through the MGB and those granted by local government units under devolved functions.

Legal Officer Atty. Gleen A. Revilla-Maravilla, on the other hand, outlined the legal framework that guides the authority of officers. She emphasized proper protocols in the apprehension, arrest, and seizure of illegally sourced minerals and equipment under the provisions of Sections 9 and 103 of RA 7942, DAO No. 2010-21, and the revised deputation guidelines under DAO No. 2008-22.

MGB-7 Officer-in-Charge Regional Director Al Emil G. Berador, in a statement, described the move as a strategic shift toward a more inclusive and community-driven approach to environmental protection.

“We believe that the best way to safeguard our environment is through shared responsibility,” Berador said.

Berador added that through the formal deputation of law enforcement, they are strengthening their enforcement network to ensure the sustainable management of the region’s mineral resources.

The activity concluded with an oath-taking of newly deputized personnel, formally inducting them into the bureau’s environmental enforcement network.

Police Captain Joseph Elmer Cornea of the CIDG welcomed the initiative, expressing appreciation for the training provided to law enforcement officers.

According to him, the deputation allows the police to act more decisively against environmental violators while ensuring that all operations remain within legal bounds.

MGB-7 emphasized that the strengthened collaboration aims not only to curb illegal mining but also to promote responsible resource utilization.

The agency urged stakeholders and mineral traders to strictly comply with DENR-MGB regulations to avoid the confiscation of materials and possible criminal prosecution. IHM CEBU NEWS