Mati City, Davao Oriental – A joint police operation conducted on June 3, 2025, led by the Davao Oriental Maritime Police Station (MARPSTA), in coordination with the Mati City Police Station (CPS) and the Philippine Navy, resulted in the arrest of suspects allegedly involved in illegal logging activities in Barangay Central.
The operation was launched following a report from the Coastal Barangay Information Network (CBIN) regarding the illegal gathering, collection, and possession of round timber in the area.
Authorities apprehended individuals suspected of violating Section 77 of Presidential Decree 705, also known as the Revised Forestry Code of the Philippines. Seized during the operation were:
- 31 pieces of round timber (lesser-used species) with a total volume of 0.584 cubic meters, estimated at ₱12,400
- 25 poles and piles (lesser-used species), valued at ₱1,500
- One unmarked blue motorized banca, included in the total seizure valued at ₱13,900
The suspects, along with the confiscated timber and motorized banca, were brought to the police station for proper documentation and disposition.
Authorities reaffirmed their commitment to protecting the province’s natural resources and warned that similar operations would continue against illegal logging and related environmental crimes.