DAVAO CITY – The Bureau of Immigration and the 10th Infantry Division arrested on Wednesday, April 22, 20 Chinese nationals for alleged illegal mining in Pantukan town in Davao de Oro and Tagum City in Davao del Norte.

Major Gen. Alvin Luzon, commander of the 10th Infantry Division, said they failed to present the necessary permits and documents.

Recovered from them were mineral resources, heavy equipment, explosives, and Chinese People’s Liberation Army uniforms that may indicate possible links to illicit mining networks.

Initial investigation revealed that they held tourist visas. However, all of them allegedly overstayed in the country, particularly in the region.

Luzon said the operation was conducted in support of Mission Orders 2026-151 and 152, targeting foreign nationals suspected of violating the Philippine Immigration Act of 1940, the primary law governing the entry, stay, and deportation of foreign nationals in the country.

They are facing charges for violating Section 37(a)(9) in relation to Section 45(e) of the Philippine Immigration Act of 1940, as amended, for undesirability due to expired visas, and Republic Act 7942, or the Philippine Mining Act of 1995.

Further inquiry revealed that the foreign nationals were allegedly engaged in small-scale illegal mining operations in the area for an extended period, involving the extraction of gold and other mineral ores reportedly intended for smuggling outside the country.

Luzon said the military supported the immigration operation and emphasized the importance of inter-agency coordination.

He said the operation not only addressed immigration violations but also exposed illegal activities that threaten natural resources and national security.

Luzon said deeper investigation is ongoing to determine the full extent of the alleged illegal mining activities and assess possible security implications, as efforts continue to curb unlawful activities involving foreign nationals.