Authorities seized contraband lumber during an anti-illegal logging operation conducted by the Philippine National Police–Maritime Group in Basay, Negros Oriental, on Monday, Jan. 12.
The suspect was identified by police as alias “Lar,” 44, a resident of Brgy. Maglinao, Basay, Negros Oriental.
The operation was carried out by the 4th Special Operations Unit through the Basay Maritime Law Enforcement Team in coordination with the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office of Basay.
Police said the operation was launched in response to information provided by a concerned citizen regarding the illegal transport of forest products.
Seized during the operation were 28 pieces of gmelina lumber with a total volume of 186.66 board feet and an estimated value of ₱8,399.70.
At around 4:57 a.m. on Jan. 12, responding personnel conducted area verification and spotted a man guarding cut lumber along the roadside.
The man failed to present the required permit from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, prompting his immediate arrest.
Authorities said the suspect will face charges for violation of Presidential Decree No. 705, or the Revised Forestry Code of the Philippines.
The suspect and the seized lumber were brought to the Basay Maritime Law Enforcement Team office for documentation and filing of appropriate charges.
The PNP-Maritime Group reiterated its warning that the cutting, possession, and transport of forest products without proper authorization from the DENR are strictly prohibited.
Police officials also encouraged the public to remain vigilant and continue reporting suspicious activities that threaten the environment.*