The provincial government of Cotabato has launched an investigation into an alleged illegal open-pit mining activity in Barangay Kanibong, Tulunan town.

The issue about the alleged illegal activity was referred to the Office of Governor Emmylou Taliño-Mendoza on April 28, 2026.

Based on the report submitted, the excavation operations were found to be unauthorized and lacked the necessary permits and clearances, which violates environmental laws, particularly Provincial Ordinance No. 67, Series of 2022 or the Revised Environment Code of Cotabato Province.

A composite team from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB), and the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB), as well as personnel from the Provincial Mining and Regulatory Baord (PMRB), Provincial ENR offie, Municipal ENR Office, and police officers conducted an inspection and investigation into the reported activity in the area.

Authorities warned that the activity could lead to serious risks to the environment, including landslides, severe soil erosion, destruction of natural habitats, and threats to the safety of communities nearby.

The provincial government said the lot owner/operator has been advised to cease all excavation activities immediately pending the results of the ongoing investigation.