By Dolly Yasa
MOISES PADILLA, Negros Occ. – A truck loaded with bamboo poles and gemelina lumber was intercepted Sunday early morning while passing through a police checkpoint in front of the municipal hall.
Based on documents presented to the police, the truck is owned by incumbent councilor Absalon Alconera.
Police Captain Charlie Sebastian, RMFB-6 Reconnaissance Company head, told reporters how they intercepted the truck in front of the Moises Padilla municipal hall early morning of Sunday.
Sebastian said they flagged down the truck which came from Barangay Montilla and going to Bago City.
The driver identified as John Albert Eustanio said they were transporting bamboo poles only.
Sebastian said they inspected the cargo with the use of the flashlight and saw the mahogany and gemelina lumber hidden beneath the bamboo poles.
He also said they have received reports of illegal transporting of endangered species in the town and they decided to put up the checkpoint.
The truck was impounded at the police station and the driver together with the four other laborers was detained.
Forester Alexis Sidayon of the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office confirmed that an undetermined volume of cut logs were hidden beneath the bamboo poles.
He said appropriate charges in relation with Republic Act 3701, or the law prohibiting the unlawful occupation and destruction of public forests, will be filed against the suspects if evidence warrants.
Moises Padilla Mayor Ella Garcia -Yulo appealed anew to residents not to engage in illegal logging as these will result to floods.
Alconera told reporters that he did not know that the truck was loaded with gemelina wood and showed reporters a land title where these were planted.
