Environment Secretary Ma. Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga announced that a case buildup is underway concerning individuals allegedly involved in illegal mining operations in Paracale, Camarines Norte. In coordination with various agencies, Loyzaga explained that the focus is on small-scale mining, which involves significant local government and community participation.
Addressing the possibility of foreign involvement in these activities, Loyzaga noted that past operations also exposed illegal foreign workers in other parts of the Philippines. This follows the recent arrest of 11 Chinese nationals found working at the Paracale site with only tourist visas.
Dr. Winston Casio, spokesperson for the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC), confirmed that the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) has since sealed off the site. The arrested individuals have been subjected to inquest proceedings for immigration violations, with some reportedly hired as business financiers and others as technical experts and workers.
While Paracale Mayor Romeo Moreno stated that the mineral processing plant operated without proper permits, plant owner and Councilor Amelia Oco argued that her facility, which she claims is solely for processing and not mining, holds a valid operating permit. Authorities are also investigating suspicions that the plant’s operations might have involved attempts to extract uranium.