DENR seizes P10-M in illegally-cut logs, other equipment

LILOAN, Philippines – About P10 million worth of Falcata logs, equipment, conveyances, and accessories were seized by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)-8, together with the Army’s 53rd Engineering Battalion, the Philippine National Police (PNP), the Philippine Coast Guard and the Philippine Navy at Liloan Port, Southern Leyte last Tuesday morning, September 20.

Allen Cebuano of the DENR Forester Chief Enforcement Division disclosed on September 23 that the shipment of confiscated illegally-cut falcata logs was claimed by one Pablito Peria.

Cebuano also said the shipment lacked pertinent documents such as certificate of origin of the logs and a permit to harvest.

The trucks – four 10-wheelers – transported the logs from San Jose, Mondragon in Northern Samar to Butuan City.

The DENR vowed to investigate the shipment of the illegally cut logs, though it did say rules were apparently violated in transporting this harvested lumber from integrated social forestry areas. There was also no payment of administrative fees made to the DENR Office.

Falcata logs are regarded highly for plywood and paper production.

The shipper is charged for violating the Revised Forestry Code of the Philippines. – Rappler.com