DAVAO CITY – The Armed Forces of the Philippines is all set to augment the all-out battle of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) against illegal logging.
Major General Rafael C. Valencia, commanding officials of the AFP’s 10th Infantry Division said they have already pinpointed areas where there is a critical need in guarding its environment.
Valencia expressed his full support not only in curtailing not only illegal logging but also illegal mining activities especially within their area of responsibility stressing that he has close coordination with the Mines and Geo-Sciences Bureau-XI.
One of the preventive measures that were discussed during their meeting with DENR XI regional director Ruth M. Tawantawan is the establishment of DENR-AFP checkpoints in the area.
“Our focus will be in areas within Compostela Valley Province particularly in Laak and some areas in Davao del Norte and Davao Oriental. We will jointly conduct IEC in each barangay to prevent cutting of banned species,” said Tawantawanan.
DENR-XI will also be conducting a refresher course on environmental laws and regulations as well as orientation on proper documentation in terms of apprehension of illegally-cut trees for the AFP personnel.
Prior to her meeting with the 10th ID, Tawantawan had a courtesy call with Lieutenant General Rey Leonardo B. Guerrerro of the Eastern Mindanao Command in Panacan, Davao City and discussed to him the different Programs and Projects of the DENR. They are also eyeing to solicit EASTMINCOM’s support in the implementation of these programs especially in the campaign against illegal logging activities in the region.
Aside from the military, Tawantawan also urged all the employees of the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) of Compostela Valley Province to help out in intensifying all the campaigns of the Department especially that there are reports that Comval Province has a high rate of illegal logging activities. (YAS D. OCAMPO)