The Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) of Goa, Camarines Sur headed by CENR Officer Daisy M. Terciano in collaboration with the Philippine National Police Municipal Police Station (PNP MPS) of Lagonoy, Camarines Sur recently apprehended a jeepney loaded with undocumented Red Lauan (Shorea negrosensis) lumber having a total volume of 530 board feet on April 3, 2021 at Brgy. Sta. Maria, Lagonoy, Camarines Sur.

The apprehension was a result of the issued Special Order No. 2021-006 of CENRO Terciano activating the Enforcement and Monitoring Team led by Forester III Ubaldo B. Oliquino, Jr. for the continued law enforcement on April 1-4, 2021, when violators are expected to take advantage of the Holy Week season.

After proper inventory and documentation, the seized forest products and conveyance were placed under the custody of the PNP-MPS Lagonoy headed by PSSG Michael O. Doctor for safekeeping pending proper disposition. Apprehended persons will face legal charges for violation of Section 77 of the Revised Forestry Code, as amended, which prohibits possession of timber or other forest products without license.

CENRO Terciano reminds the public to comply with the prescribed procedures for acquiring tree cutting and transport permit in order to avoid legal sanction.

“The increased incidence of apprehensions is seen as a result of the intensive anti-illegal logging and forest protection campaign of the DENR together with other law enforcement agencies, which prompts the public to provide intelligence information to the authorities,” she added.

The overall seized undocumented forest products are estimated to be worth Php 31,800.00.