Public urged to buy lumber only from DENR-accredited dealers

CEBU, Philippines - The forestry division of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources is reminding the public to make sure that the lumber they are purchasing are from dealers that are accredited by DENR.

Dr. Isabelo Montejo, Regional Technical Director for Forestry, said buyers should always look for papers that would support the legality of the lumber and to ensure that they were not gathered illegally.

Montejo also said customers should always ask for an official receipt and not merely a delivery receipt.

Montejo explained that before suppliers of lumber are allowed to transact and sell their products, DENR will give them a certification, which would serve as permit for them to sell their products.

A certificate of lumber origin is given if the lumber was naturally grown while a self monitoring form is granted for those selling lumber from planted trees. 

He said customers could ask their suppliers for the official receipt but should they have doubts, they can always inquire from DENR if their supplier is accredited.

There are reportedly more than 50 accredited lumber dealers in Cebu and around 100 all over the region.

Meanwhile, the group of lumber dealers in Cebu has signed a Memorandum of Agreement with DENR to help preserve the forests in the island.

Montejo said the Cebu Lumber Men Association has signed a MOA to contribute in the efforts of reforestation and rehabilitation of forests.

“This is a corporate and social responsibility, but other than that it is a big help in the environment,” Montejo said. — AJ A. de la Torre/JMO (THE FREEMAN)