MAGPET, COTABATO — Authorities from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)–Region 12, through its Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) in Matalam, confiscated an estimated 3,000 board feet of undocumented lumber during a forest protection operation in Sitio Campo, Barangay Bongolanon, on July 14, 2025.
The seized lumber, consisting of Mahogany and Gmelina species commonly used in furniture-making and construction, was valued at approximately ₱135,000. The operation stemmed from a tip-off by a concerned citizen who reported the presence of a suspected stockpile at a known loading area.
Forester Nobeh L. Llamas, who led the CENRO Matalam Monitoring and Enforcement Section, said the team discovered the cut timber ready for transport during their on-site inspection. “No transport documents or permits were presented,” Llamas noted, prompting authorities to take immediate custody of the forest products.
The confiscated lumber has since been moved to the CENRO Matalam compound for safekeeping.
In a statement, DENR-12 reiterated its commitment to curbing illegal logging and enforcing forest protection laws. The agency confirmed that it would pursue charges against the individuals involved, citing Section 77 of Presidential Decree No. 705, or the Revised Forestry Code of the Philippines, which penalizes the unlawful cutting, gathering, and possession of timber without authorization.
DENR also urged the public to continue supporting the agency’s forest conservation efforts by reporting suspicious activities. “Public vigilance is a crucial part of our enforcement work,” it stated.
The investigation is ongoing as authorities work to identify and hold accountable those behind the illegal lumber operation.