A POSSIBLE case of reckless imprudence resulting in arson awaits the group of seven hikers responsible for the fire that damaged the grasslands of Benguet’s scared mountain.
The Bureau of Fire Protection and Kabayan police submitted on January 23 affidavits against the seven campers who caused the fire at Mount Pulag National Park last January 20.
Also on January 23, the Mount Pulag National Park management submitted affidavits against the same group for negligence and violation of the Forestry Code (Presidential Decree 705).
The hikers from Cebu, headed by Ramon Kristomar Mackay, caused the fire through reckless handling of a cooking stove, which exploded, causing the group to panic and leave the area. The fire was contained after a few hours but damage to the mountain has been made.
“I am executing this affidavit to attest the truth of the foregoing and to formally file a complaint for negligently setting fire within the forest lands in violation of the Provisions section 78 illegal occupation and destruction of forest lands of PD 705,” Park Superintendent Teber Dionisio said in his affidavit.
Deputy Provincial Prosecutor Andres Gondayao said the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office has yet to submit the cost of damage incurred from the fire, which damaged 5.9 hectares of grasslands.
Grassland treks via Akiki Trail and Tawangan along the summit have been ordered closed until further notice to give time for grass vegetation to recover. The closure was also done as stones and boulders may fall anytime toward the camp site, posing danger to hikers and campers.