LAGUNA , Philippines – At least 10 people were arrested and two vans containing coconut lumber worth about P1 million were seized during a raid in Kalayaan town on Friday, authorities said.
Senior Superintendent Gilbert Cruz, Laguna police director, said the raid is part of ongoing operations against illegal logging in the towns of Kalayaan, Pila, Pangil, Liliw, Mabitac, Narcarlan and Pakil.
Cruz said they hope to rid the province of illegal logging as the hideouts and manufacturing areas of those involved are raided.
He admitted that public officials, businessmen, men in uniform and the insurgents benefit from illegal logging in Laguna.
He vowed to go after the financiers and protectors of illegal loggers.