THE Philippine National Police (PNP) vowed today the stricter enforcement of environmental laws.
This came after two separate police operations wherein endangered clams and hot lumber were seized.
Reports reaching the Office of the Chief PNP stated that the PNP Maritime Police seized a total of 7,000 kilos of endangered fossilized and fresh clams, also known as “taklobo,” in Sitio Ondol Pasil, Barangay Cayhagan in Sipalay City, Negros Occidental last October 26. Two suspects were arrested over the seizure of the endangered clams worth P490,000.
Meanwhile, the hot lumber, worth more than P400,000, were confiscated by police officers at a checkpoint in Allen, Northern Samar.
A 10-wheeler reefer van, driven by one Jan Richard Ballosa, contained the hot lumber and the driver was arrested by police personnel after failing to show the necessary documents indicating he was authorized to transport more than 400 pieces of lumber.
Criminal charges against the suspects in the two incidents are already being readied.
Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief, Police General Guillermo Eleazar reminded the public about existing laws that aim to preserve the environment and the country’s natural resources.
“Part of the PNP’s mandate of protecting the community include caring for the environment. The seizure of the taklobo, an endangered species, was a big accomplishment under Republic Act 10654. We will also intensify our campaign against illegal logging,” PGen Eleazar said.
He tasked all police offices and units to strengthen measures against individuals or even groups that bring destruction to the environment through activities that violate environmental laws including poaching of endangered species, illegal quarrying and illegal logging.
The PNP Chief assured that the police force would continue working with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources to protect the environment against unscrupulous persons who aim to profit from its destruction.