Picop execs rapped for ‘lawful seizure’

Three officials and 40 forest wardens of Picop Resources Inc. found themselves charged with robbery and car theft in a Compostela Valley court for confiscating chainsaws and two vehicles from "poachers" inside its concession area last July 18.

In a statement, Picop, however, explained that the apprehension was in accordance with rules and regulations of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, properly reported and documented, and the seized items turned over to the police and the DENR.

Picop vice president and resident manager Wilfredo Fuentes, one of the respondents, said all the seized items, including a Toyota pick-up, an Izusu jeepney and three chainsaws, were covered by seizure receipts and turned over to the DENR depository inside the Picop compound for safekeeping.

The other respondents are chief security officer R. B. Espinosa, Wilfredo Castilla and 40 forest wardens of Picop.

Fuentes said Picop is mandated by law to protect its concession areas from all forms of forest violations.

He said the DENR has deputized their forest wardens and security guards as "deputy environment and natural resources officers" who can investigate any violation of forestry laws.

He added they are also authorized to confiscate the tools, equipment and conveyances used in the commission of the offense as well the natural resources in the hands of the offenders.

Last July 18, Picop’s forest operatives led by Castilla caught one Gabriel Amigo and 14 hired hands in a lumbering operation at Road 7, Km. 72, inside the company’s concession area.

Fuentes said charges were filed against them "without an appropriate investigation or lateral coordination" with the concerned police stations or DENR offices "to gather relevant information to shed light on the case."

Picop Resources is a publicly listed integrated paper manufacturing firm which pays P200 million in taxes annually.