Politics · Philippines Bureau
Zamboanga del Sur governor intensifies crackdown on illegal mining operations
Provincial officials have vowed to halt unauthorized mineral extraction activities across Zamboanga del Sur, with the governor personally inspecting affected communities to enforce compliance with mining regulations.
LSN Philippines ·
PAGADIAN CITY — Zamboanga del Sur Governor Divina Grace Yu has issued a stern warning to local government units over the continued presence of illegal mining operations throughout the province, demanding immediate cessation of all unauthorized mineral extraction activities.
Yu conducted an on-site inspection of Dulop and Licabang villages in Dumingag town on Friday to assess the scale of illegal mining operations in the area. The governor's direct intervention underscores escalating provincial concerns over unregulated mining activities that persist despite existing prohibitions.
During the inspection, Yu directed municipal and barangay officials to enforce stricter compliance with mining regulations and to cooperate in dismantling unauthorized operations. The governor emphasized that local government units bear responsibility for preventing illegal mining within their jurisdictions.
The inspection marks an intensification of provincial efforts to combat illegal mining, which has raised environmental and social concerns in affected communities across Zamboanga del Sur. Officials have warned of consequences for local government units that fail to take decisive action against illegal mineral extraction in their areas.