SAN JOSE, Antique – Stakeholders in this province were reminded anew to strictly observe Executive Order No. 23 which prohibits cutting and harvesting of timbers in the natural and residual forests.

The EO No. 23, according to the Provincial and Environment and Natural Resources Office not only prohibits logging but it also created Anti-Illegal Logging Task Force to oversee that the order is strictly implemented and observed nationwide.

DENR Regional Executive Director Adeluisa Siapno said, “The DENR is stern in amplifying the implementation of EO 23 which pilots the lead in the anti-illegal campaign of the government.” She also added that this directive will assist in the enforcement of other laws concerning the environment such as protection and rehabilitation of the watersheds and river systems and the fortification of the remaining forest cover areas of the country.

Under EO 23, the DENR is constrained from issuing and logging contracts in all natural and residual forests such as Integrated Forest management, Socialized Integrated Forest Management, Community Based Forest Management Agreement and other agreements with logging components.

The PENRO also briefed the police representatives from the 14 towns of the province.

DENR –PENRO Ildefonso Tuliva commended the efforts of the PNP in the apprehension and/or seizure of the forest products encouraging its continuous support in the execution of forest laws.*