DENR 7 reiterates call to stop rampant cutting of trees

DENR 7 conducted an investigation last year to determine the cause of the flashfloods in Cebu (CDN PHOTO/MOREXETTE ERRAM).

With rainy season here and recent flashfloods happening, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources in Central Visayas (DENR 7) is once again asking Cebuanos to stop the rampant illegal cutting of trees and charcoal-making.

DENR 7 conducted an investigation last year to determine the cause of the flashfloods in Cebu.

Results of their investigation revealed that the rampant illegal cutting down of trees and charcoal-making in Cebu are the major causes of flashfloods in the upland towns both in south and north Cebu weeks ago.

Dr. Eddie Llamedo, DENR 7 Public Affairs Officer, said they are closely monitoring these illegal activities and have also sought support from the Philippine National Police in apprehending violators.

According to Llamedo, there is an existing executive order (Executive Order 23) that prohibits the transport as well as cutting down of trees which are planted in state-protected areas or in their natural habitats.

The executive order mandates a moratorium on the cutting and harvesting of “…timber in the natural and residual forests and creating the anti-illegal logging task”.

Llamedo stated that the moratorium took effect in Cebu province last year after DENR 7 discovered rampant chopping down of trees and charcoal-making in the mountains were the main causes of flashfloods.

Since July this year, DENR 7 have already apprehended several operators who transport illegally chopped down trees from five northeast towns in Cebu including San Remigio, Bogo and Asturias.

“We are now reiterating this because of the recent flashfloods. We are also increasing our capacity to apprehend more violators by coordinating with the PNP to assist us in this operation,” Llamedo said.