Thanks to a tip from a concerned citizen, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (DENR-PENRO) in Capiz intercepted illegal logging activities in Brgy. Olalo, Pilar, Capiz, on January 7, 2024.
The Monitoring and Enforcement Section (MES) of DENR-PENRO Capiz received a report early that morning about the alleged cutting of trees in the area.
Acting quickly, MES personnel conducted surveillance and a foot patrol at around 8 a.m. By 11:22 a.m., the team seized two chainsaws and five square logs of Mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla) and Gmelina (Gmelina arborea). The logs measured 132 board feet (0.31 cubic meters) and were valued at approximately PHP5,280.
The confiscated chainsaws and logs are now in the custody of DENR-PENRO Capiz and will be disposed of in accordance with environmental laws.
“We commend the swift action of PENRO Capiz under the leadership of PENR Officer Ernest C. Federiso in halting these illegal cutting activities. Such decisive action sends a strong message to violators that we are serious about enforcing environmental laws,” said DENR 6 OIC Regional Executive Director Raul L. Lorilla.
Illegal logging is a violation of Section 68 of Presidential Decree 705, also known as the Forestry Reform Code of the Philippines. The decree penalizes unauthorized cutting, gathering, or removal of timber from forest lands, alienable and disposable lands, or private property. Violators face charges of qualified theft under Articles 309 and 310 of the Revised Penal Code.
Under Section 7 of Republic Act 9175, or the Chain Saw Act of 2002, unauthorized possession or use of chainsaws for cutting trees carries a penalty of six to eight years imprisonment, a fine ranging from PHP30,000 to PHP50,000, or both, depending on the court’s discretion. Confiscated chainsaws are forfeited in favor of the government.
This operation supports the DENR’s Intensified Forest Protection Program, which aims to curb illegal logging and preserve forest resources for future generations.
The DENR encourages the public to report environmental violations and take an active role in protecting the country’s forests.
