A suspected illegal logger was collared in a recent raid conducted by the police 705th Provincial Mobile Group and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, at the Twin Balinsasayao Lake, Sitio Lansob, Brgy. Enrique Villanueva, Sibulan, Negros Oriental.

The suspect was identified as Isidro Sotillo, of legal age, who operatives said was behind the illegal cutting of the lumber recovered by authorities.

Seized were species of white lauan, almasiga and other indigenous forest trees found at the lake, which the DENR personnel said they will use as evidence against Sotillo.

Charges for violation of Section 68 of Presidential Decree 705 or the Forestry Code of the Philippines, as amended by Executive Order 277, will be filed against the suspect who is now detained at the Sibulan police detention cell.

Community Environment and Natural Resources officer Charlie Fabre said they received reports that Sotillo threatened to harm DENR personnel who would stop their illegal activities.

They had received reports about illegal logging but people in the place refused to testify, fearing for their security, he said. Illegal loggers are considered armed and dangerous, he added.

The Twin Lakes as a Natural Park is under the supervision of a Protected Area Management Board.

Fabre said the DENR is augmenting the forest rangers at the lake since the PAMB has insufficient fund resources.*MA/RG

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