PCA suspends permits to cut coconut trees

The cutting of coconut trees is prohibited and deemed illegal, starting March 10, the Philippine Coconut Authority announced recently.

PCA regional director Deodiro Ravelo said PCA administrator Oscar Garin had issued last month Memorandum Circular No. 02-2008 suspending the issued permits to cut coconut trees around the country.

Those caught violating the order, and Republic Act 8048 or the law against illegal coconut tree cutting, will face imprisonment or a maximum fine of P500,000, or both.

Ravelo said the directive also includes suspension of the transport or transshipment clearances for coconut lumber nationwide.

The purpose of the directive is to complement the massive replanting program of the government and to stop the increasing incidents of illegal coconut tree cutting, said Ravelo.

There are however exemptions. One is that the cutting of the tree may be allowed only in typhoon-ravaged or declared calamity areas when this tree poses a threat to people and property.  Another is in areas that are authorized for conversion to personal use for housing or animal shed but the maximum number of trees to be cut is five only.  — Ferliza C. Contratista/RAE