SUMISIP, Basilan — In a decisive move to protect Basilan’s rapidly dwindling forest resources, troops of the 32nd Infantry (Daredevil) Battalion of the Philippine Army, together with the Philippine National Police and environmental authorities, successfully conducted a major anti-illegal logging operation in Sitio Sampinit, Barangay Mahatalang, on the afternoon of January 9, 2026.
The joint operation, launched at around 4:00 p.m. following a tip from a concerned citizen, led to the discovery and seizure of several illegally cut lawaan logs hidden in the area. Authorities described the operation as one of the largest enforcement actions under the Provincial Government of Basilan’s SAGIP KALIKASAN campaign to date.
The operation was spearheaded by the 32nd Infantry “Daredevil” Battalion under the leadership of Lt. Col. Gerwin T. Maghuyop, INF (GSC), PA, and carried out on the ground by 1Lt. Nigel Brix L. Binohlan, Acting Civil-Military Operations Officer, in close coordination with the Sumisip Municipal Police Station, personnel of the 1401st and 1402nd Regional Mobile Force Companies (RMFC), RMFB 14, and four representatives from CENRO Maluso.
Also present in the operation was PCapt. Jakaria Muin, Chief of Police of Sumisip, who jointly led the enforcement activity with Lt. Col. Maghuyop.
Governor Hataman: Illegal Logging Will Not Be Tolerated
Basilan Governor Mujiv S. Hataman lauded the swift and coordinated action of the military, police, and environmental frontliners, stressing that the provincial government will remain relentless in its campaign to protect the environment.
“These efforts must be sustained so that those engaged in illegal logging will learn that such activities will not be tolerated. Our forests are already under threat, and failure to act decisively today will only burden our future generations,” Hataman said.
“The strong commitment of the Provincial Government of Basilan is embodied in SAGIP KALIKASAN—a unified and continuous effort to protect our environment, preserve our natural resources, and secure a sustainable future for our people. This is a shared responsibility, and I fully support all initiatives that uphold environmental protection and the rule of law.”
Hataman also warned those who continue to engage in the illegal cutting and selling of trees to cease their activities immediately, or face the full force of the law.
Army Leadership Reaffirms Firm Stand
Brigade and division commanders also echoed the call for sustained action against environmental crimes.
Brig. Gen. Frederick M. Sales, PA, Commander of the 1101st Infantry (Gagandilan) Brigade, said the military remains resolute in its campaign against illegal logging.
“We are resolute in our campaign against illegal logging. Protecting our forest resources is a shared responsibility, and we will continue to work closely with the 32nd Infantry Battalion and partner agencies to ensure strict enforcement of environmental laws and the safety of our communities.”
Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Leonardo I. Peña, PA, Commander of the 11th Infantry (Alakdan) Division, underscored the importance of unity among agencies.
“The preservation of our natural resources requires unity of effort. Through close collaboration with law enforcement and environmental agencies, we will sustain operations that protect our forests and contribute to long-term peace and development in Basilan.”
Part of EO 19 and Sagip Kalikasan Drive
The operation is part of the implementation of Executive Order No. 19, Series of 2025, one of Governor Hataman’s earliest directives, which formally launched SAGIP KALIKASAN—Basilan’s flagship environmental protection campaign covering forests, rivers, and coastal areas, while also promoting sustainable and eco-friendly livelihoods for local communities.
Authorities confirmed that an investigation is ongoing to identify the individuals behind the illegal logging activities and to file appropriate charges against those responsible.
Protecting the Future of Basilan
The 32nd Infantry (Daredevil) Battalion reiterated its commitment to supporting national and local initiatives aimed at enforcing environmental laws, protecting natural resources, and linking environmental conservation to sustainable peace and development in Basilan.
Officials emphasized that the livelihoods of many Basileños depend on a healthy and protected environment, making the fight against illegal logging not only a law enforcement issue, but a crucial step in securing the province’s future.