P3.1 M worth of lumber seized at North Harbor

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources’ (DENR) National Anti-Environment Crime Task Force (NAECTAF) seized yesterday P3.1 million worth of undocumented lumber at the Manila North Harbor on suspicion that they were from illegally cut logs.

Undersecretary Roy Kyamko, NAECTAF deputy head, in a report to Environment Secretary Angelo Reyes, said the lumber was confiscated after an eight-day stakeout held at Pier 16 of the Manila North Harbor.

Kyamko said the undocumented pieces of lumber, measuring some 105,000 board feet, were found inside seven 40-foot container vans aboard M/V General Geronimo.

NAECTAF agents are still trying to verify the identities of the shipment’s consignees. The carrying vessel reportedly last docked in Davao City before reaching Manila.

NAECTAF agents had to wait for more than 72 hours after the shipment was unloaded from the vessel before instituting seizure proceedings.

The action conforms with a legal procedure calling for a 72-hour grace period before authorities can seize unclaimed container vans suspected to be carrying illegal cargo.

Members of the Naval Intelligence and Security Service of the Philippine Navy and forestry authorities from the DENR-National Capital Region participated in the raid.

Reyes directed the filing of the proper charges once it is verified that the law against illegal logging has been violated.