There is no illegal logging in northern Negros Occidental, but there have been some reports of kaingin operations, Edgardo Rostata, Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer, said today, January 20.
Board Member Andrew Montelibano said he had received reports of illegal logging near the first district of Negros Occidental, which he said is subject to verification.
Negros Occidental Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson said he has not heard of illegal logging in the first district but if Montelibano has any information he can always come forward and give a report.
Rostata said what the PENRO has monitored are small scale kaingin operations in Salvador Benedicto.
Kaingin is the technique of clearing land by slashing and burning underbrush and trees.
There has also been timber poaching in Hinoba-an town in southern Negros Occidental, especially during the COVID-19 lockdown last year, Rotata said.
Meanwhile, Lacson said agrees with Montelibano that legal action should be taken against those engaged in illegal quarry operations.
Montelibano is set to conduction inspect quarry operations in northern Negros to see if violations were committed that contributed to the recent floods.*