MISAMIS ORIENTAL — Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. led an official visit to the Philippine Veterans Investment Development Corporation (PHIVIDEC) Industrial Authority in Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental on May 16, 2026, following verified reports of illegal activities taking place within the facility.
The operation was launched after authorities received information regarding an alleged unauthorized venture involving undocumented foreign nationals and local workers who were found handling materials identified as potentially hazardous.
The visit was carried out in close coordination with the Presidential Anti‑Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC), which sought the Department of National Defense’s assistance to properly address the situation, secure the area, and ensure the safety of both the personnel involved and the nearby communities.
Initial findings from the ongoing probe revealed that the illegal operation involved a total of 69 Chinese nationals and one Filipino worker, all of whom were discovered to be working without the necessary legal documentation or permits required by Philippine laws.
Due to the nature of the materials being handled, which pose significant risks to health and safety, the facility has been declared an active crime scene and remains under strict surveillance while authorities execute a search warrant to gather further evidence and determine the full scope of the activities conducted on the premises. The presence of foreign nationals without proper papers raises serious concerns regarding labor violations, immigration laws, and compliance with national security regulations.
In response to the incident, Secretary Teodoro issued direct instructions to the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Region X to immediately undertake a complete inventory and accounting of all affected employees now that operations have been halted. He emphasized the need for government agencies to work together to provide support and assistance to displaced workers.
Coordination has been ordered with the Department of Social Welfare and Development for the provision of essential aid and interventions, as well as with the Department of Labor and Employment to help affected individuals secure new employment opportunities, whether temporary or permanent. Furthermore, acknowledging the dangers posed by exposure to hazardous substances, the Defense Chief mandated comprehensive medical examinations for every person involved in the operation to monitor and safeguard their health.
During the inspection, Secretary Teodoro issued a stern warning to any individuals or groups attempting to disrupt or influence the course of the investigation. He stated clearly that any act meant to obstruct lawful procedures, tamper with evidence, or impede authorities in the performance of their duties will face severe legal consequences and be dealt with accordingly. Joining Secretary Teodoro during the visit were PAOCC Undersecretary Benjamin Acorda, OCD Region X Regional Director Antonio Sugarol, alongside personnel from the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police, underscoring the government’s unified stance against illegal operations and its commitment to uphold the rule of law across the region.
