DENR-7 to strictly implement the 'one-strike' policy on illegal logging

By Hazel F. Gloria

CEBU CITY, Sept 28 (PIA) -- The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR-7) will strictly enforce the “one-strike” policy on illegal logging to all field officials in Central Visayas. 

The policy covers any illegal cutting or harvesting of forest products within the area of jurisdiction of a certain field official, said Isabelo Montejo, executive director of DENR-7. 

The department will continue to establish closer ties with local government units (LGUs) and other law enforcement agencies in the crusade against illegal logging that includes detection and apprehension of illegally-cut or gathered forest products in all provinces in the country. 

Montejo added failure to detect, report, or apprehend the transport of illegally-harvested forest products whether sourced from a certain area where the official has jurisdiction or another area, including apprehension or confiscation made by other law enforcement agencies and LGUs without his or her knowledge, would make those officials liable. 

According to the recent memorandum issued by DENR Undersecretary for Field Operations Demetrio Ignacio Jr, all officials violating the one-strike policy will immediately be relieved and corresponding charges filed, after the violation has been verified and confirmed. 

“Secretary Ramon Paje is serious against violators of forest laws, rules and regulations as he instructed us to establish interregional strategies and closely coordinate with other relevant government agencies,” Montejo said. 

Montejo added that field officials are now directed to focus more and more on the enforcement and implementation of this order consistent to the principle of command responsibility. (mbcn/HFG-PIA-7/ DENR-7)