Mambusao, Capiz – Authorities in Capiz intercepted the illegal transport of 900 bamboo poles in Sigma, Capiz, as part of their continued enforcement of environmental laws.
A composite team from the Monitoring and Enforcement Section (MES) of the Community Environment and Natural Resources (CENRO) – Mambusao, along with the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO) of Sigma under MENR Officer Ernesto Gicalde and the Sigma Municipal Police Station, seized the bamboo poles, which had an estimated market value of PHP31,500.
CENR Officer Gregoria D. Alenaje of CENRO Mambusao acted swiftly on a report from MENRO Sigma regarding the alleged illegal transport of bundled bamboo poles using rafts along Mambusao River. Upon receiving the information on Feb. 4, 2025, Alenaje immediately dispatched the MES team to verify and investigate the matter.
Upon arrival, authorities found the bundled bamboo poles. During verification, the alleged violator presented a photocopied Certificate of Bamboo Plantation Registration (No. CBPO-MAM-0517-23-015) but failed to provide an authenticated copy indicating the date of transport, a requirement under Section 11 of DAO 2021-26, which governs the establishment, harvesting, and transport of bamboo.
Further scrutiny revealed tampering in the payment receipt date of the registration certificate, originally dated May 23, 2023. This led to the apprehension of the bamboo poles.
A corresponding apprehension receipt was issued to the violator, with copies provided to MENRO Sigma, PNP Sigma, and officials of Poblacion Sur, Sigma. Due to logistical constraints, the hauling of the bamboo poles was deferred, but the Sigma Municipal Police assured continuous monitoring of the area.
The CENRO Mambusao sought further assistance from PNP Sigma to ensure security and compliance throughout the operation.
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Capiz remains firm in enforcing environmental regulations to protect the province’s natural resources. An investigation will be conducted to determine accountability and compliance with environmental policies.
