PNP seeks stronger coordination with DENR vs illegal loggers, miners
The Philippine National Police (PNP) is pushing for stronger coordination and alliance with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) for the protection of the forests against illegal loggers and miners.
This, after three illegal miners were arrested during an operation in Barangay Bahi in Barobo, Surigao del Sur on Saturday, June 27.
The barangay is part of the area with significant forest and upland terrain that became a target for illegal mining activities due to the resources it has.
The three miners, aged 33, 34 and 45, and all residents of Tagbina, Surigao del Sur, were arrested after they failed to present the necessary permits in conducting mining activities.
Seized from the arrested suspects were P 5 million worth of equipment that include water pumps and a backhoe.
Nartatez acknowledged the hardship in monitoring and securing forests and protected areas but pointed out that strong coordination backed by cooperation of local residents is a strong starting ground for environmental protection.
“Environmental protection is not the task of the DENR alone. It requires strong coordination among government agencies and alliance with the people that is anchored on trust and commitment to protect their community,” said Nartatez,
“The arrest of these three illegal miners is proof of that strong coordination and alliance with the community. And we intend to keep it that way,” he added.
The arrested miners are now detained at the Barobo Municipal Police Station and facing a case of violation of Philippine Mining Act of 1995.
Nartatez said he already tasked Regional Directors and other police commanders to strengthen coordination with the DENR in terms of anti-illegal mining and logging operations.
He said the PNP is also ready to provide regular training for forest rangers and to assist in establishing strong communication lines against illegal loggers and miners.