Hot logs seized by Benguet environment office

LA TRINIDAD, Benguet -- The quest to curb illegal logging continues.

Over P114,855.46 of illegally cut logs were seized from October to November 2011 by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Provincial Environment Regional Office (Penro) for Benguet Province.

The hot logs came from various operations in Benguet and in Baguio City, with 478 pieces of logs and an estimated 3,387.53 board feet were hauled collectively.

The Penro also has in its possession P650,000 worth of conveyance vehicles.

During the Provincial Peace and Order Council meeting, it was reported a total of 37 criminal cases were filed in court as of November.

Among those charged in court for alleged violations related to transporting and possession of the illegally cut logs are Julius Ay-ayac, Andres Capsuyen, Luke Wanason, Robert Angel and Elmer Banganan.

The Penro reported 1,578 hectares forestlands, reservations, legal easements, were planted with forest seedlings and agro forest crops involving 21 peoples organizations with 9,258 participants with a budget of P10.93 million.

From January to November, there were 25 vehicles confiscated, 18 of which were confiscated by Cenro La Trinidad, four by Cenro Baguio and three by Cenro Buguias.

Nine vehicles were confiscated during the 1st quarter, seven in the second quarter, four during the third quarter and five in the fourth quarter.