CALAMBA, Misamis Occidental — The Philippine National Police–Maritime Group (PNP-MG) successfully intercepted an illegal logging operation in Barangay Bunawan, Calamba, Misamis Occidental, following a joint law enforcement operation conducted on February 4, 2026.
The operation was led by the Plaridel Maritime Law Enforcement Team (MLET) under the Misamis Maritime Police Station (MARPSTA), in coordination with other government agencies, after receiving reports of unauthorized tree cutting activities in the area.
During the operation in Purok 1, Barangay Bunawan, authorities caught an individual identified only by the alias “Lem” in the act of illegally cutting trees without the necessary permit from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (DENR–CENRO).
Police said the suspect’s actions constitute a clear violation of Section 68 of Presidential Decree No. 705, also known as the Forestry Reform Code of the Philippines, which prohibits unauthorized logging, timber harvesting, and forest product transportation without proper authorization from the government.
Confiscated from the suspect were one unit of chainsaw and a total of seventy-seven (77) pieces of Falcata wood, believed to be intended for illegal distribution and sale. The suspect was immediately brought to the Plaridel MLET office for proper documentation and the filing of appropriate criminal charges.
Meanwhile, the seized lumber was temporarily placed under the custody of a barangay councilor of Barangay Bunawan for proper scaling, inspection, and eventual disposition under the supervision of DENR–CENRO.
Authorities emphasized that the successful operation forms part of the PNP-Maritime Group’s intensified campaign against illegal activities that threaten the country’s natural resources. Officials noted that illegal logging not only depletes forest cover but also increases the risk of flooding, landslides, and environmental degradation.
The PNP-MG reaffirmed its commitment to strictly enforce environmental laws and protect the nation’s forests, in line with the advocacy of the “Bagong PNP” under the mantra, “Fast, Honest, and Responsive Service.”
Police also urged the public to remain vigilant and to promptly report any suspicious activities related to illegal logging and environmental destruction, stressing that community cooperation remains vital in preserving the country’s natural heritage.
The authorities assured that similar operations will continue as part of their sustained efforts to safeguard the environment and hold violators accountable under the law.