DENR requires LGU endorsement, public hearing before cutting of trees

CEBU, Philippines - The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) 7 is requiring the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to submit endorsements from the local government units (LGUs) concerned and from the Office of the Provincial Governor as one of the requirements in processing a cutting permit.

The DPWH had requested the DENR to cut trees that will be affected by the implementation of the widening of Natalio Bacalso Avenue, Naga-Carcar Section.

DENR 7 Regional Executive Director Dr. Isabelo R.Montejo said that so far, his office has not received the endorsements from the LGUs concerned to support the application for a special tree cutting permit by DPWH.

The requirements are application letter, photographs of trees to be removed, sketch map showing the location of trees to be removed, endorsement of local government unit concerned, environmental compliance certificate and minutes of public consultation concerning the removal of trees.

Based on the inventory conducted by a joint team of four from the DENR 7 and one from DPWH in May 11 and 16 last year, 155 trees of different species will be affected.

Of the 155, 25 are century old acacia trees (Samanea saman) with a diameter ranging from 92 centimeters to 226 centimeters. It was also found that out of 25, nine are considered “hazardous and defective” which need immediate attention.

He further added that the said request was forwarded to DENR Central Office in Manila as the authority is vested on the DENR secretary because it involves century-old trees with heritage significance.

All requests for tree cutting permits shall be properly endorsed to the Secretary thru the Forest Management Bureau, as well as the implementing guidelines of Presidential Decree 953 and Executive Order 23.

Montejo added that removal of trees in urban areas can be through earth-balling or cutting, however, when establishing infrastructure projects, removal of the trees shall be the last option and the design of the projects shall complement the presence of existing vegetation.

He said that the application for the removal of trees causing obstruction to building construction and other infrastructure projects like road widening and road right of way shall be filed at the nearest DENR office.

Heritage trees, are trees with historical and cultural significance as certified by the National Historical Institute or by other appropriate agencies, and landmark trees as certified by the concerned LGU shall be preserved, nurtured and applied with tree maintenance practices as necessary. — (FREEMAN)