Photo courtesy of PNP
Police operatives shut down an illegal timber run in Gingoog City, Misamis Oriental, seizing narra lumber and a transport vehicle worth over Php 2.27 million.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) said the operation from May 16 to 17, 2026 stemmed from a tip about ongoing illegal tree cutting in the area.
A joint team from the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), intelligence units and local police, working with environment authorities, tracked the shipment and intercepted a wing van on the move.
Authorities said the vehicle was loaded with narra lumber and flitches but lacked the necessary permits for transport.
Confiscated were 208 pieces totaling 7,122 board feet valued at php 1,068,300, along with the wing van estimated at php 1,200,000.
The suspect was taken into custody and brought to the Gingoog City Police Station as charges were readied under the Forestry Reform Code.
Police said the operation underscored intensified enforcement against environmental crimes, backed by intelligence work and community tips.
PNP chief Jose Nartatez said illegal logging damages ecosystems and livelihoods, adding that authorities will keep up the pressure against those exploiting forest resources.
