Politics · Philippines Bureau
Zamboanga Sibugay alerts public to bogus mining permits in circulation
Provincial authorities in Zamboanga Sibugay have issued a warning about counterfeit mining documents after discovering an illegal mineral shipment bearing a forged signature of Governor Dulce Ann Hofer. The advisory underscores growing concerns about fraudulent credentials in the region's extractive industries.
LSN Philippines ·
PAGADIAN CITY — The provincial government of Zamboanga Sibugay is cautioning residents and businesses against accepting falsified mining permits following the seizure of an illicit mineral consignment bearing forged documentation. The discovery prompted provincial officials to release a public advisory on Tuesday, alerting stakeholders to verify the authenticity of all mining credentials.
The intercepted shipment bore the forged signature of Governor Dulce Ann Hofer, signaling an organized effort to circumvent mineral extraction regulations. Provincial authorities have not disclosed details regarding the origin of the counterfeit permits or the volume of minerals involved in the illegal operation.
In its advisory, the provincial government reiterated compliance with existing regulatory frameworks governing mineral extraction and trade. Officials urged mining operators, traders, and transporters to conduct due diligence when verifying permits and to report suspected fraudulent documents to appropriate authorities.
The alert reflects broader challenges across mining-dependent regions in Mindanao, where illegal operations have persisted despite enforcement efforts. Authorities did not immediately announce arrests or further details about the investigation into the forged documents.