MANILA, (PNA) — The Department of Environment and Natural Resources-National Capital Region (DENR) is conducting its anti-illegal logging campaign in the universities.
The DENR spread this awareness among students inclusing in the University of Caloocan with its program ‘Executive Education Program Lecture Series’ this September.
Representing DENR Secretary Ramon JP Paje, DENR-NCR Regional Executive Director Neria A. Andin explained the various DENR programs, particularly the anti-illegal logging campaigns, National Greening Program and Solid Waste Management Program.
She also cited the different protected areas and national parks like the La Mesa watershed in Quezon City and the Las Piñas-Parañaque Critical Habitat and Eco-tourism area which are worth visiting.
Recently, DENR-NCR asked the assistance and support of the local government units (LGUs) in conducting periodic monitoring to ensure there is no entry of illegal lumber or violation of forestry laws within their areas of jurisdiction.
Andin also informed LGUs on Executive Order No. 23 issued by President Benigno S. Aquino III in 2011 declaring a moratorium on the cutting and harvesting of timber in the natural and remaining forests and creating the anti-illegal logging task force.
Persistent illegal logging causes widespread flashflood and landslide that destroy lives and properties aside from threatening habitat and sanctuaries of flora and fauna.
Metro Manila is considered as the transshipment point of illegal lumber from other parts of the country usually concealed in container vans and misdeclared as other goods.