Authorities have shut down an alleged illegal treasure hunting site in Kibawe, Bukidnon and arrested the alleged operator, according to the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC).

The alleged operator was arrested for violation of the National Cultural Heritage Act (RA 10066) following the service of a search warrant evening on Monday, February 2, 2026.

During the operation, the team found extensive evidence of deep underground excavation.

PAOCC said it has observed that mining operators installed a plastic sheeting along a nearby creek to divert water flow away from the excavation area.

Authorities found that the site was operating without the necessary permits and lacked the required valid documentation.

Seized during the operation were a jack hammer and a blower worth around P38,000.

The 58-year-old suspect was taken into police custody and may face charges for alleged violation of RA 10066 and unauthorized digging or treasure-hunting operation within archaeological sites.

The Police Regional Office-Northern Mindanao (PRO-10) said any form of digging or excavation, even if conducted within one’s own property, requires proper authorization, particularly when the area that may involve protected or culturally significant sites.

“This arrest underscores our firm stance against illegal excavation and treasure-hunting activities that endanger our cultural heritage. Police Regional Office 10, together with our partner agencies, will continue to enforce the law and hold accountable those who violate the National Cultural Heritage Act,” PRO-10 Director, Brigadier General Christopher Abrahano, said.

PAOCC said Kibawe town holds a unique and significant place in the Philippines’ cultural heritage as it has been recognized as an archaeological site of national importance through a National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) board resolution.

“The resolution acknowledges the value of the archaeological sites within Kibawe, drawing upon the records of the National Museum of the Philippines' comprehensive list and on the pioneering work of Henry Otley Beyer or most commonly known as Wilhelm G. Beyer, who documented archaeological sites in the Philippines in the year 1947,” PAOCC said.

“Criminal activities such as illegal treasure hunting violate our laws and also cause irreversible damage to our cultural heritage and environment. The PAOCC will continue to work closely with the PNP, NCCA, and other partner agencies to ensure that our natural resources are protected from exploitation and abuse,” PAOCC Executive Director, Undersecretary Benjamin Acorda Jr., added.