Photo courtesy of PNP
Police arrested 204 people and recovered more than Php 16.18 million worth of timber, fish and equipment in a two-week campaign against illegal logging and fishing across Western Visayas.
The Philippine National Police said 187 operations were carried out from August 1 to 15 as authorities intensified enforcement of environmental and fisheries laws.
Most of the haul came from anti-illegal fishing operations. Police conducted 69 operations that led to 146 arrests and the recovery or confiscation of fish and fishing-related equipment valued at more than Php 15.8 million.
Authorities also conducted 118 operations against suspected illegal logging, resulting in 58 arrests and the recovery of lumber and charcoal worth more than Php 384,000.
The PNP said the operations were aimed at curbing the illegal exploitation of forests and coastal resources while protecting communities that depend on them for livelihood.
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez said enforcement should remain firm but responsible, especially in areas where residents rely heavily on natural resources.
“May mga komunidad na umaasa sa ating likas-yaman, kaya kailangan natin itong protektahan. We will continue to enforce the law firmly, but always in a fair, responsible, and respectful manner. Our goal is to protect our natural resources while also respecting the rights and livelihood of the communities we serve,” Nartatez said.
Police said similar operations would continue across Western Visayas as authorities monitor illegal logging and fishing activities in the region.