PNP-8 runs after illegal coco lumber cutters

By Erlinda Olivia P. Tiu

Friday 3rd of August 2012

PALO, Leyte, Aug 3 (PIA) -- Taking note of the declining coconut production, the Philippine National Police in Eastern Visayas has intensified its campaign against illegal cutters of coconut lumber.

In a press statement, Police Senior Superintendent Roel Balentong Acidre, chief of the Regional Police Community Relations Office, sternly warned illegal coconut lumber cutters to abide by the rules, otherwise the PNP will run after them.

Acidre said that on July 31 at Barangay Calipayan, the police led by Romulo Alvarina, chief of police, together with Elma Berino, Municipal Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) officer inspected and investigated a reported illegally-cut coconut trees.

The team discovered 17 pieces of coconut trees believed to be illegally-cut. These were placed under the custody of the barangay chairman for safekeeping pending investigation.

The same team chanced on abandoned illegally-cut 15 pieces of 3x6x8 coco lumbers with an estimated volume of 18 board feet.

Also found were abandoned illegally-cut coco lumber with a total of 176.1 board feet. Said lumber were brought to the Dagami Police Station for disposition.

Acidre called on the public to accomplish and secure a permit before cutting down coconut trees.

The public must present tax declaration of the land where the coconut is located, deed of undertaking, certification from the barangay chairman published for 15 days, and the Coconut Development Officer (CDO) Inspection Report, otherwise, violators will face penalties or even imprisonment. (PIA 8)