31 mayors, officials face raps over illegal logging

CEBU, Philippines - Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse Robredo yesterday said 31 top officials of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources in Luzon and Mindanao were ordered suspended while others were directed to answer the charges that they were involved of illegal logging.

Robredo accompanied President Benigno Aquino III during his visit to Danao City yesterday to attend the birthday celebration of Vice Mayor Ramon “Nito” Durano III and the signing of the coalition agreement between Liberal Party and Bakud Party.

Robredo said the mayors are now facing charges for negligence, and, if found guilty, may get a reprimand or suspension.

During his speech, Aquino said his administration has now started its campaign against those using their position for their personal interest.

According to Robredo, they are now monitoring the performance of all the mayors nationwide in the campaign against illegal logging.

Robredo said the reasons why the mayors failed to stop these illegal activities in their respective may be ignorance or because they really tolerate them.

Then DILG chief said that the department is not only focusing on illegal logging involving DENR officials and local officials, but also other illegal activities that affect the Filipino people.

He appealed to the private sector and non-government organization to get involved against those behind these illegal activities.  (FREEMAN)