Misor board probes alleged use of Capitol equipment in illegal mining

The Misamis Oriental Provincial Board is ramping up its investigation into alleged illegal mining in Barangay Sinalac, Initao, focusing on reports that the provincial government's own heavy equipment was used in the unauthorized operations.

A joint committee hearing is set for Wednesday at the Sangguniang Panlalawigan to continue the inquiry that began last week.

The investigation is being led by Infrastructure Committee Chair Board Member Bliss Francis Acain and Environment Committee Chair Roy Aniscal. On April 17, Acain and representatives from the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office conducted a site inspection.

“Niabot ang backhoe sa Sinalac, na dispatch October 28, 2025,” Acain said.

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By November, a request for heavy equipment was allegedly made through the Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative (IPMR) and addressed to Gov. Juliette Uy. This raised questions because there were no official province-funded projects recorded in the area.

During a privilege speech on Monday, Acain emphasized that several individuals were seen visiting the site, with some allegedly linked to the governor. However, witnesses are hesitant to come forward.

“Daghan kaayo nga personahi gapanganha diha pero dili sila pakangalan tungod sa rason nga gakahadlok sila,” Acain said.

He added that the equipment allegedly used in the operation includes a road roller, a grader, and backhoes owned by the province.

Meanwhile, the provincial government, through Special Assistant to the Governor Celso Abucejo, welcomed the probe and expressed support for the investigation.

“Gi welcome na ni Gov, unsa man naka trigger sa ilang investigation naa bay report naa bay complaint, wala mi kabalo,” Abucejo said.

He added that the governor is willing to wait for the investigation's outcome and for the individuals involved to be formally identified.

“Akong gi ignan si Gobernador ingon nya hulatan kuno nya ug kinsa kung nganlan nila mas maayo, kapoy kay nang mag speculate,” he said.