11 Chinese nationals arrested in Caraga this year

SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan del Sur — At least 11 Chinese nationals have been arrested in separate law enforcement operations across Caraga this year due to the government’s intensified campaign against immigration violations and illegal mining activities, officials said.

The latest operation on Monday, August 3, resulted in the arrest of five Chinese nationals in Trento, Agusan del Sur following a joint law enforcement operation conducted by the Bureau of Immigration (BI), the Philippine Army’s 10th Infantry (Agila) Division, and the 67th Infantry Battalion (67IB).

The operation was conducted at the Mayokada Enterprise Compound in Purok 4, Barangay Pulang Lupa, Trento town.

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The arrested individuals were placed under BI custody for investigation and the filing of appropriate charges.

Maj. Ruben Gadut, head of the 10th Infantry Division’s Public Affairs Office, told the Inquirer in a phone interview on Wednesday that the foreign nationals were taken into custody for offenses involving alleged misrepresentation and fraud under national immigration laws.

“The Philippine Army remains steadfast in supporting legitimate law enforcement operations that protect our national security and uphold the rule of law,” Gadut said.

In a statement, Maj. Gen. Alvin Luzon, 10ID commander, commended the coordinated operation.

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“This successful inter-agency effort demonstrates the government’s unified commitment to ensuring that all foreign nationals in the country comply with Philippine laws while safeguarding the welfare and security of our communities,” Luzon said.

Earlier arrests due to alleged illegal mining

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Before the Trento operation, authorities arrested six Chinese nationals in separate anti-illegal mining operations in Agusan del Sur and other parts of Caraga Region.

In February 2026, authorities conducted coordinated operations against alleged illegal mining in the region, resulting in the arrest of four Chinese nationals among 35 individuals apprehended during enforcement activities.

Authorities reported that the arrested individuals committed alleged violations of mining regulations, with cases pursued under the Philippine Mining Act of 1995.

Another operation in Barangay Wasian, Rosario, Agusan del Sur, led to the arrest of two Chinese nationals identified as “Chen,” 50, and “Ty,” 55, along with three Filipino companions.

During the Rosario operation, authorities seized equipment allegedly used in illegal mining activities, including two excavators, a generator set, a water pump, artificial turf mats, and wooden pans, with the confiscated items estimated at around P6.1 million.

Cases were filed against those arrested for alleged violations of the country’s mining law. * With a report from Cong B. Corrales*/coa