Davao steel plant raided over radioactive and substandard materials

Law enforcement agencies, including the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC), raided the Davao Mighty Steel Corporation in Bunawan, Davao City. The operation was conducted following an inquiry into the manufacture and distribution of substandard reinforcing steel bars.

Technical examinations revealed the presence of radioactive isotopes, including Uranium-238, Thorium-228, Thorium-232, and Radium-226. These materials were found in finished DMS rebars, furnace-related materials, industrial powders, dust, wastewater, and other production residues. The Philippine Nuclear Research Institute confirmed that the company lacked the necessary licenses to possess, use, or trade nuclear or radioactive materials.

During the raid, authorities rescued 174 Filipino workers from the industrial environment to prevent further occupational exposure to radioactive fumes and waste. The investigation is ongoing to determine the full extent of the safety risks and whether the products compromised the structural integrity of construction projects.