BAYOMBONG, Nueva Vizcaya , Philippines – Isabela Vice Gov. Rodito Albano yesterday asked Interior and Local Governments Secretary Jesse Robredo to identify local officials involved in illegal logging.
“I think they should name names. They have not mentioned anything to us about this matter and we have a right to know,” Albano said.
Albano was reacting to Robredo’s statement that at least eight mayors, including one from Isabela were involved in illegal logging.
Robredo said these local officials are either allowing illegal logging in their respective areas or deliberately ignoring President Aquino’s executive order for a nationwide total log ban.
He said these mayors should explain why administrative cases should not be filed against them.
Meanwhile, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) reported that at least 62 people were convicted of illegal logging in Cagayan Valley despite the government’s all-out campaign.
Forester Benjamin Tumaliuan, DENR regional executive director, said the conviction also resulted in the confiscation of 22 pieces of heavy equipment used in cutting and transporting logs.
Records show that most of the cases were filed in Nueva Vizcaya while the rest were in Cagayan and Isabela.
“This is a stern warning to all concerned that we mean business in our fight against illegal logging and the destruction of our environment,” Tumaliuan said. – With Edith Regalado