MGB Region 5

𝐖𝐀𝐓𝐂𝐇 -DENR Secretary Juan Miguel T. Cuna calls on Filipinos to support Earth Hour 2026.

𝐌𝐆𝐁-𝐕 𝐒𝐏𝐎𝐑𝐓𝐒𝐅𝐄𝐒𝐓 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔; 𝐕𝐈𝐓𝐀𝐋𝐈𝐓𝐘 𝐈𝐍 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐁𝐔𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐔: 𝐅𝐔𝐄𝐋𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐖𝐄𝐋𝐋𝐍𝐄𝐒𝐒, 𝐃𝐄𝐅𝐈𝐍𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐒𝐏𝐎𝐑𝐓𝐒𝐌𝐀𝐍𝐒𝐇𝐈𝐏

𝐋𝐄𝐆𝐀𝐙𝐏𝐈 𝐂𝐈𝐓𝐘 —The Mines and Geosciences Bureau Regional Office V (MGB-V) successfully held its much-anticipated Sportsfest 2026, anchored in the theme “Vitality in the Bureau: Fueling Wellness, Defining Sportsmanship.” The event gathered personnel from various divisions in a vibrant celebration of health, unity, and friendly competition.

The sportsfest highlighted the bureau's continued commitment to promoting the overall wellness of its workforce. Through a series of physical activities and games, employees were encouraged to adopt a more active lifestyle, recognizing that physical health plays a vital role in maintaining productivity and resilience in the workplace. The initiative also served as a timely reminder of the importance of balancing professional responsibilities with personal well-being.

In his opening message, Regional Director Engr. Guillermo A. Molina Jr. IV underscored the true essence of sportsmanship, emphasizing that it is not merely the act of playing, but how one plays the game that ultimately defines how one wins. He also expressed his gratitude to the MGB Employees Association (MGBEA), headed by Ms. Joame Olavario, for organizing the special event in support of personnel wellness.

The Sportsfest featured a diverse lineup of events, including chess, scrabble, darts, table tennis, Mobile Legends, basketball, volleyball, badminton, and traditional Filipino games under Laro ng Lahi.

Beyond physical fitness, the event fostered a strong sense of camaraderie among MGB-V personnel. Employees from different units had the opportunity to interact, collaborate, and build stronger relationships outside the usual office setting. Team-based sports and group activities strengthened cooperation, trust, and unity values, which are essential in achieving the Bureau’s shared goals and mandates.

Moreover, the Sportsfest emphasized the true essence of sportsmanship. Participants demonstrated discipline, respect, and integrity throughout the competitions, embodying the principles of fair play and mutual support. Winning was celebrated, but greater importance was placed on participation, teamwork, and respect for fellow colleagues.

The success of the MGB-V Sportsfest 2026 reflects the bureau's dedication to cultivating not only competent professionals but also healthy, motivated, and connected individuals. As the event concluded, it left a lasting impact on all participants, reinforcing that a strong workforce is one that thrives in both wellness and unity.

𝐉𝐎𝐈𝐍𝐓 𝐆𝐎𝐕𝐄𝐑𝐍𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓 𝐎𝐏𝐄𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐒𝐓𝐎𝐏𝐒 𝐈𝐋𝐋𝐄𝐆𝐀𝐋 𝐌𝐈𝐍𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐈𝐍 𝐑𝐀𝐏𝐔-𝐑𝐀𝐏𝐔; 𝟏𝟓 𝐀𝐑𝐑𝐄𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐃, 𝐓𝐎𝐎𝐋𝐒 𝐒𝐄𝐈𝐙𝐄𝐃

𝐑𝐀𝐏𝐔-𝐑𝐀𝐏𝐔, 𝐀𝐋𝐁𝐀𝐘 – A joint enforcement operation led by the Mines and Geosciences Bureau V (MGB-V), in partnership with local government units (LGUs) and Police Regional Office 5 (PRO 5), successfully halted illegal mining activities in Barangay Sta. Barbara, Rapu-Rapu, Albay, resulting in the arrest of 15 individuals and the seizure of mining equipment.

The operation was initiated after reports of unauthorized mining activities in the area. A joint field investigation subsequently confirmed that the small-scale mining operations were being conducted without the necessary permits and in violation of existing environmental and mining regulations.

On February 19, 2026, a composite team composed of technical personnel from the Mines and Geosciences Bureau Regional Office V (MGB RO-V), the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (DENR-PENRO Albay), and the Police Regional Office V (PRO5) Rapu-Rapu Municipal Police Station conducted the anti-illegal mining operation.

The MGB RO-V team was led by Chief of the Mine Management Division Engr. Antonio C. Maragisan, with Engineer III Engr. Michaelangelo Lorenzo D. Jarcia and Science Research Specialist II Marvin Bobby Sodsod. The DENR-PENRO Albay Monitoring and Enforcement Section was headed by Forester II For. Jay Oarde, with Forest Rangers Adrian Borsigue and Rodel Blacer. The PNP team was led by Chief of Police PMAJ Joseph S. Milante and his personnel. The operation was carried out after thorough coordination with the Municipal Government of Rapu-Rapu through Municipal Mayor Ronald A. Galicia.

Upon arrival at the site, the team confirmed that illegal mining activities were actively being conducted within the HIXBAR mining area in Barangay Sta. Barbara. Approximately twenty (20) individuals were initially reported to be involved in the illegal operations. However, upon the arrival of the apprehending team, several individuals fled the area. Fifteen (15) individuals were successfully apprehended by the PNP Rapu-Rapu.

During the operation, around seven (7) makeshift shanties constructed from light materials were observed within the site. One (1) of the structures was equipped with a rod mill used for ore processing.

The following mining tools and equipment were found and documented at the site:
• One (1) unit rod mill
• One (1) unit Yama generator set
• One (1) unit Blackstone water pump
• Several mining and panning tools
• Ten (10) sacks of tailings
• One (1) pail of ore concentrate

An active excavation area was also observed, indicating ongoing mineral extraction activities at the time of the operation.

Appropriate legal actions are currently being prepared against the apprehended individuals in accordance with existing laws, while confiscated equipment will be processed following standard enforcement procedures.

The operation underscores the continued commitment of MGB RO-V and partner agencies to intensify monitoring and enforcement efforts against illegal mining activities in the region, in order to protect the environment and ensure public safety.

Stay updated and stay safe! 🌧️

Please "𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞" and "𝐟𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐨𝐰" the official page of the MGB Geohazards Operation Center to receive the latest information and updates, including:

📢 Advisories about possible landslides and flooding caused by heavy rainfall
🛟 Helpful safety tips to keep you and your family protected
📌 Important announcements and official updates
📚 Informative materials on geohazards and Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM)

Being informed makes a big difference. Your awareness can help protect lives, so don’t forget to share these updates with your community.

The DENR-Mines and Geosciences Bureau is pleased to launch our Official MGB Geohazards Operation Center page.

This page is the dedicated social media platform of DENR-MGB for geohazards information, advisories, and disaster risk reduction initiatives.

Like and follow us for timely updates and advisories on rain-induced landslides and flood hazards, safety tips, official announcements, and other resources on geohazards and DRRM.

Together, let us build safer and more resilient communities.

Mines and Geosciences Bureau

𝐌𝐆𝐁 𝐑𝐎-𝐕 𝐒𝐔𝐏𝐏𝐎𝐑𝐓𝐒 𝐀𝐂𝐀𝐃𝐄𝐌𝐄 𝐑𝐄𝐒𝐄𝐀𝐑𝐂𝐇: 𝐔𝐏 𝐋𝐎𝐒 𝐁𝐀Ñ𝐎𝐒 𝐒𝐓𝐔𝐃𝐘 𝐎𝐍 𝐑𝐄𝐇𝐀𝐁𝐈𝐋𝐈𝐓𝐀𝐓𝐄𝐃 𝐌𝐈𝐍𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐀𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐒

𝐋𝐄𝐆𝐀𝐙𝐏𝐈 𝐂𝐈𝐓𝐘—The Mines and Geosciences Bureau Region V (MGB V) has expressed its full support to the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) in the conduct of research activities within and around the rehabilitated mining areas of Rapu-Rapu Minerals Inc. and Rapu-Rapu Processing Inc. on February 9, 2026.

The research is being undertaken by UPLB through its School of Environmental Science and Management (SESAM), in partnership with the University of Guelph and the Mines and Geosciences Bureau of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (MGB-DENR). The collaborative initiative, titled “Coping with the Legacy of Mining: A Comparative Study of Community Adaptation, Governance Gaps, and Negotiation Dynamics in the Philippines,” examines key dimensions of mine rehabilitation, particularly governance mechanisms, post-mining transitions, and community-centered rehabilitation strategies.

Dr. Decibel F. Eslava, Dean and Professor 12 of UPLB-SESAM, together with Dr. Jonathan T. Macuroy, Project Staff of UPLB-SESAM, formally coordinated with and interviewed MGB V Regional Director Engr. Guillermo A. Molina, Jr. IV. The discussion focused on the implementation of mine rehabilitation efforts and the role of regulatory agencies in ensuring sustainable post-mining transitions.

A central focus of the study is the Rapu-Rapu mining operations, recognized as the first mining project under the Philippine Mining Act of 1995 to complete final mine rehabilitation and obtain a Certificate of Final Relinquishment. The site presents a rare and significant opportunity to evaluate how post-mining transitions are carried out in practice—moving beyond policy frameworks and planning documents to actual on-the-ground implementation and community outcomes.

The rehabilitation site falls under the jurisdiction of the Mine Safety, Environment, and Social Development Division (MSESDD), headed by Mr. Jose Marcel S. Laud, Chief Science Research Specialist. The division led the bureau’s support to the research team by providing relevant materials and documents, presenting the current status of the rehabilitated area, and accommodating interview sessions to assist the study.

Through this collaboration, the project aims to generate comparative insights from Canada and the Philippines to help strengthen socially embedded and community-responsive post-mining policies and practices.

𝐄𝐌𝐏𝐎𝐖𝐄𝐑𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐋𝐎𝐂𝐀𝐋 𝐏𝐀𝐑𝐓𝐍𝐄𝐑𝐒: 𝐀𝐃𝐕𝐀𝐍𝐂𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐄𝐍𝐅𝐎𝐑𝐂𝐄𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓 𝐓𝐇𝐑𝐎𝐔𝐆𝐇 𝐃𝐄𝐏𝐔𝐓𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍

𝐋𝐄𝐆𝐀𝐙𝐏𝐈 𝐂𝐈𝐓𝐘 –The Mines and Geosciences Bureau Regional Office No. V (MGB R.O.-V) continues to strengthen its campaign against illegal mining by empowering local government partners through deputation initiatives aimed at intensifying monitoring and enforcement efforts across the Bicol Region.

Recently, deputation activities were conducted in the provinces of Camarines Sur and Sorsogon, authorizing selected local government personnel to serve as mining enforcement officers. Through this initiative, deputized personnel are granted authority to investigate violations of mining laws, apprehend offenders, seize illegally sourced minerals and mineral products, confiscate tools and equipment used in unlawful operations, and file appropriate complaints against violators.

On January 21, 2026, at the Capitol Complex in Cadlan, Pili, Camarines Sur, MGB R.O.-V technical personnel administered the deputation upon the request of the Provincial Government of Camarines Sur to members of the Sagip Kalikasan Task Force (SKTF). The MGB R.O.-V technical team was composed of Engineer III Michael Lorenzo Jarcia, Embedded Personnel of Camarines Sur—Engr. Aika T. Paje, Mr. Riddick Bombase, and Mr. Marvin Bobby Sodsod, Science Research Specialist II.

Subsequently, on February 19, 2026, at the Governor’s Hall, Capitol Compound, Sorsogon City, MGB R.O.-V personnel conducted the renewal of the deputation ceremony for the Sorsogon Task Force Kalikasan (STFK) – Quarry Members. The renewal was facilitated by mining engineers and embedded personnel Yvette Mae Navera and Joachim Ann Bandola, Science Research Specialist II from the Bureau.

The deputation program included comprehensive discussions on the salient provisions of the Philippine Mining Act of 1995, the People's Small-Scale Mining Act of 1991, the duties and functions of deputized personnel, and the prescribed guidelines and procedures governing the apprehension, seizure, confiscation, and disposition of illegally sourced minerals, mineral products, by-products, tools, conveyances, and equipment used in unlawful activities.

Through these continuing deputation efforts, MGB R.O.-V reaffirms its commitment to collaborative governance, ensuring that local partners are well-equipped and legally empowered to safeguard the region’s mineral resources and uphold responsible mining practices.

𝐌𝐈𝐍𝐄𝐒 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐆𝐄𝐎𝐒𝐂𝐈𝐄𝐍𝐂𝐄𝐒 𝐁𝐔𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐔 𝟓 – (𝐌𝐆𝐁-𝐑𝐎𝐕) 𝐁𝐀𝐂𝐊𝐒 𝐒𝐓𝐑𝐎𝐍𝐆 𝐄𝐍𝐅𝐎𝐑𝐂𝐄𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓 𝐀𝐆𝐀𝐈𝐍𝐒𝐓 𝐈𝐋𝐋𝐄𝐆𝐀𝐋 𝐌𝐈𝐍𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐈𝐍 𝐉𝐎𝐒𝐄 𝐏𝐀𝐍𝐆𝐀𝐍𝐈𝐁𝐀𝐍, 𝐂𝐀𝐌𝐀𝐑𝐈𝐍𝐄𝐒 𝐍𝐎𝐑𝐓𝐄

𝐋𝐄𝐆𝐀𝐙𝐏𝐈 𝐂𝐈𝐓𝐘 – The Mines and Geosciences Bureau Regional Office No. V (MGB-V) rendered assistance to the MGB Central Office and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) during the conduct of anti-illegal mining operations in Barangay Luklukan Sur, Jose Panganiban, Camarines Norte on January 15, 2026. The operation was further supported by the DENR-PENRO Camarines Norte, whose participation was instrumental to the effective implementation of the enforcement activity.

The activity was carried out following reports of ongoing unauthorized mining activities in the area. Upon arrival at the site, operatives discovered twenty (20) miners inside a compound that was concealed using large construction tarpaulins and a makeshift fence to obscure activities from public view. Numerous pieces of equipment and paraphernalia typically used for small-scale blasting and fabrication of improvised explosive devices were recovered, along with hundreds of sacks believed to contain mineral ores. These small-scale miners violated the provisions of DAO-2022-03 and the People’s Small-Scale Mining Act of 1991.

All seized items were taken into custody in accordance with existing rules and regulations under Republic Act No. 7942 (Philippine Mining Act of 1995) and Republic Act No. 7076 (People’s Small-Scale Mining Act of 1991). Eight (8 ) individuals were subsequently turned over to the Jose Panganiban Municipal Police Station (MPS) for inquest proceedings and further legal actions.

MGB-V is now overseeing the transfer of custody of the confiscated equipment and materials from the Barangay Local Government Unit, in coordination with the MGB Central Office, NBI, DENR-PENRO Camarines Norte, and the BLGU of Luklukan Sur, to ensure proper documentation, inventory, and disposal in accordance with applicable regulations.

The joint operation demonstrated the continued commitment of concerned agencies to uphold their mandates against illegal mining activities, protect mineral resources, enforce environmental laws, and maintain public safety within mineral-rich communities.

𝐎𝐀𝐓𝐇-𝐓𝐀𝐊𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐂𝐄𝐑𝐄𝐌𝐎𝐍𝐘 𝐅𝐎𝐑 𝐍𝐄𝐖𝐋𝐘 𝐏𝐑𝐎𝐌𝐎𝐓𝐄𝐃 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐀𝐏𝐏𝐎𝐈𝐍𝐓𝐄𝐃 𝐏𝐄𝐑𝐒𝐎𝐍𝐍𝐄𝐋

𝐋𝐄𝐆𝐀𝐙𝐏𝐈 𝐂𝐈𝐓𝐘—The Mines and Geosciences Bureau Regional Office No. V (MGB R.O.-V) conducted an oath-taking ceremony for its newly promoted and appointed personnel on January 8, 2026, at the Office of the Regional Director in Rawis, Legazpi City. The ceremony was administered by Regional Director Guillermo A. Molina, Jr. IV.

Taking their oaths of office were Engr. Maria Mikaela L. Balute was promoted to Engineer II under the Mine Management Division (MMD), and Ms. Shema Loudemae P. Laguardia was appointed as Geologist II under the Geosciences Division (GD). Their assumption of new roles marks a significant milestone in their respective professional careers within the Bureau.

Engr. Balute, a licensed geodetic engineer, previously served as Cartographer II. As a newly promoted Engineer II under the Mineral Lands Survey Section of the Mine Management Division (MMD), she is anticipated to take on a more strategic role in supporting the Bureau’s regulatory and developmental functions, particularly in tenement management, mining safety compliance, and mineral resource governance. Her technical competencies are seen as instrumental in advancing the Bureau’s initiatives on sustainable and responsible mining.

Meanwhile, Ms. Laguardia, a licensed geologist, had been engaged under a contract of service arrangement in the Geosciences Division (GD). As a newly appointed Geologist II under the General and Economic Geology Section, she will undertake geological and geomorphological studies, conduct mineral resource exploration, develop GIS-based geological information and applications, and implement information, education, and communication (IEC) activities related to geosciences.

Both personnel have demonstrated exemplary work performance and dedication in their previous capacities, earning them the trust and confidence of the Bureau’s leadership. Their appointments form part of MGB R.O.-V’s continuing efforts to strengthen its human resources and improve service delivery through merit-based career progression.

Also present during the ceremony was Engr. Antonio C. Marasigan, Chief of the Mine Management Division; Ms. Arlene E. Dayao, Chief of the Geosciences Division; and Ms. Shala Mae S. Susing, Officer-in-Charge of the Finance and Administrative Division.
MGB R.O.-V remains committed to fostering professional development and ensuring that its personnel are equipped to effectively manage the region’s mineral resources in an efficient, transparent, and environmentally responsible manner.

𝗗𝗘𝗡𝗥-𝗠𝗚𝗕 𝗚𝗘𝗢𝗛𝗔𝗭𝗔𝗥𝗗 𝗔𝗗𝗩𝗜𝗦𝗢𝗥𝗬⚠️‼️
(𝐅𝐨𝐫 𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐕 𝐁𝐈𝐂𝐎𝐋)
𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞: January 17, 2026 (valid from 16 to 19 January 2026)
WARNING: Possible Landslides and Flooding
Please be alert and help monitor your areas for possible landslides, floods, or mudflows.
What You Should Do:
✅ Stay alert for any signs of increase or decrease in flood levels, and watch over areas near rivers, slopes or drainage canals
✅ Report any signs of soil movement, water rising fast, or muddy water.
✅ Inform your respective barangay officials if you notice cracks in your walls, tilting of floors and posts in sloping areas.

REMEMBER:
🚨 Stay alert during heavy rain.
🚨 Know your emergency exits and safe zones.
🚨 Follow your site’s emergency procedures.
🚨Stay safe and help others stay safe, too.

𝗗𝗘𝗡𝗥-𝗠𝗚𝗕 𝗚𝗘𝗢𝗛𝗔𝗭𝗔𝗥𝗗 𝗔𝗗𝗩𝗜𝗦𝗢𝗥𝗬⚠️‼️
(𝐅𝐨𝐫 𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐕 𝐁𝐈𝐂𝐎𝐋)
𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞: January 15, 2026 (valid from 15 to 18 January 2026)
WARNING: Possible Landslides and Flooding
Please be alert and help monitor your areas for possible landslides, floods, or mudflows.
What You Should Do:
✅ Stay alert for any signs of increase or decrease in flood levels, and watch over areas near rivers, slopes or drainage canals
✅ Report any signs of soil movement, water rising fast, or muddy water.
✅ Inform your respective barangay officials if you notice cracks in your walls, tilting of floors and posts in sloping areas.
You can check hazards in your area using this tool: https://hazardhunter.georisk.gov.ph
REMEMBER:
🚨 Stay alert during heavy rain.
🚨 Know your emergency exits and safe zones.
🚨 Follow your site’s emergency procedures.
🚨Stay safe and help others stay safe, too.

𝗗𝗘𝗡𝗥-𝗠𝗚𝗕 𝗚𝗘𝗢𝗛𝗔𝗭𝗔𝗥𝗗 𝗔𝗗𝗩𝗜𝗦𝗢𝗥𝗬⚠️‼️
(𝐅𝐨𝐫 𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐕 𝐁𝐈𝐂𝐎𝐋)
𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞: January 15, 2026 (valid from 14 to 17 January 2026)
WARNING: Possible Landslides and Flooding
Please be alert and help monitor your areas for possible landslides, floods, or mudflows.
What You Should Do:
✅ Stay alert for any signs of increase or decrease in flood levels, and watch over areas near rivers, slopes or drainage canals
✅ Report any signs of soil movement, water rising fast, or muddy water.
✅ Inform your respective barangay officials if you notice cracks in your walls, tilting of floors and posts in sloping areas.
You can check hazards in your area using this tool: https://hazardhunter.georisk.gov.ph
REMEMBER:
🚨 Stay alert during heavy rain.
🚨 Know your emergency exits and safe zones.
🚨 Follow your site’s emergency procedures.
🚨Stay safe and help others stay safe, too.