Two individuals were arrested in Taytay, Palawan on May 6 after authorities allegedly caught them illegally cutting and processing Amugis trees, a threatened premium hardwood species, in a mountainous area of Barangay Calawag, according to the Palawan Council for Sustainable Development Staff (PCSDS).
The arrest was carried out during a regular patrol operation conducted by PCSD Wildlife Enforcement Officers together with the Peace and Security Cluster of the provincial government.
Authorities said the suspects were allegedly using a chainsaw while processing lumber identified as Amugis (Koordersiodendron pinnatum), a hardwood species commonly used for construction and furniture-making.
When asked to present the necessary permits, the individuals allegedly failed to provide a Tree Cutting Permit from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and a Chainsaw Certificate of Registration from the PCSD.
PCSDS said Amugis is classified by the DENR as an Other Threatened Species and remains strictly regulated for cutting and utilization.
The suspects are set to face charges for alleged violations of Republic Act No. 9175, or the Chainsaw Act of 2002, and Presidential Decree No. 705, also known as the Revised Forestry Code of the Philippines.
Authorities again urged the public to report environmental law violations as part of efforts to protect Palawan’s forest resources.
