LORETO, Agusan del Sur — Authorities intensified their campaign against illegal logging after recovering a large volume of illegally cut timber during a series of environmental protection operations conducted in Barangay Waloe, Loreto, Agusan del Sur.
The joint operations, carried out on June 6 and June 13, 2026, by the Alpha “Avenger” Company of the 60th Infantry Battalion (60IB) in coordination with the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) of Loreto, resulted in the apprehension of abandoned illegally cut lumber at Sitio Telocan.
Recovered during the operations were 40 pieces of Lauan lumber with an estimated volume of 106.8 board feet and 20 pieces of To-og lumber totaling approximately 2,400 board feet. Authorities said the lumber had been abandoned before the arrival of government forces.
The successful operation was made possible through timely information provided by concerned residents who reported unauthorized tree-cutting activities in the area. Military and environmental officials emphasized that the incident highlights the critical role of local communities in protecting the country’s remaining forest resources.
According to the 60IB, the operation demonstrates the military’s continuing commitment to supporting environmental law enforcement and combating illegal logging activities that threaten biodiversity, watersheds, and the livelihoods of communities dependent on forest ecosystems.
Illegal logging remains one of the major environmental challenges in many parts of Mindanao, contributing to deforestation, soil erosion, flooding, and habitat destruction. The cutting of protected and commercially valuable tree species without permits not only violates forestry laws but also undermines efforts to preserve ecological balance and climate resilience.
Military officials stressed that environmental protection is not solely the responsibility of government agencies but requires the active participation of citizens. They noted that preserving forests today is essential for ensuring environmental sustainability, disaster resilience, and economic security for future generations.
The 60IB reiterated its campaign message:
“Stop Illegal Logging. Protect Our Forests. Secure Our Future.”
The battalion continues to work closely with environmental agencies and local government partners to strengthen forest protection efforts. In partnership with CENRO Loreto, CENRO New Corella, and the Provincial Anti-Illegal Logging Task Force of Davao del Norte, the 60IB has deployed dedicated mobile teams tasked with conducting inspections, monitoring activities, and validating reports of forestry violations.
These teams regularly patrol vulnerable forest areas to deter illegal logging operations, enforce forestry regulations, and safeguard critical natural resources from exploitation.
Authorities also appealed to environmental advocates, indigenous communities, and the general public to remain vigilant and immediately report suspicious activities involving the illegal cutting, transport, storage, processing, or trading of forest products without the necessary permits.
The 60IB assured the public that all reports will be treated with strict confidentiality and encouraged citizens to report environmental violations through its hotline, 0953-845-3324, or through its official Facebook page.
As the government intensifies its crackdown on environmental crimes, officials underscored that protecting the nation’s forests requires a collective effort from all sectors of society.
“The protection of our forests requires the vigilance, cooperation, and commitment of every Filipino. The best time to take action is now,” the battalion said.
The latest operation serves as a reminder that community participation remains one of the most effective weapons in the fight against illegal logging and in safeguarding the country’s natural heritage for generations to come.