GENERAL SANTOS CITY — The Conflict Resolution and Law Enforcement Technical Working Committee (CRLE-TWC) led a joint site inspection within the Sarangani Bay Protected Seascape (SBPS) on September 11 to strengthen enforcement of environmental laws and ensure compliance among industries operating in the protected area.
The operation, conducted in coordination with the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (City ENRO), Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) General Santos, the SBPS Protected Area Management Office (PAMO), and barangay officials from affected coastal communities, focused on several fishing industry facilities and establishments with expired foreshore lease agreements.
Findings revealed that some facilities continued to operate despite expired leases, which will now be processed for conversion into Special Use Agreements in Protected Areas (SAPA) as required under the Expanded National Integrated Protected Areas System (E-NIPAS) Act.
In the same operation, authorities confiscated 48 pieces of Lauan lumber with an estimated total volume of 1,240 cubic meters and 525.83 board feet, along with a multicab vehicle in Barangay Calumpang after the possessor failed to present legal documents.
Atty. Felix S. Alicer, regional executive director of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Region XII, said the seized forest products and vehicle are under investigation and may be subject to formal charges. He underscored the importance of compliance to protect both the ecological and economic value of Sarangani Bay.
“Our message is clear: activities within Sarangani Bay Protected Seascape must comply with the law. By addressing expired foreshore leases and seizing undocumented forest products, we are not only protecting the bay’s resources but also guiding stakeholders toward lawful and sustainable practices. Our goal is to work with them to restore order and ensure that Sarangani Bay remains productive and healthy for generations to come,” Alicer said.
DENR XII reiterated that the inspection is part of its continuing efforts to curb illegal activities, enforce environmental regulations, and promote responsible use of resources in the bay. The CRLE-TWC said it is committed to regular monitoring of establishments and pursuing legal action where violations are confirmed to safeguard the integrity of the protected seascape.