By Vicky Berdina M. de Guzman
The Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao (NFEM) is coordinating with other government agencies in the campaign against illegal logging.
Col. Elmer Estilles, deputy commander for marine operations of NFEM, said that last September 12 they were able to intercept illegally-cut logs from Basilan going to General Santos City. The interception of 4,200 pieces of mahogany logs worth about P3 million took place atn Tampat Point, Sarangani area.
The logs were turned over to the Department of Environmental and Natural Resources.
Also in August this year, the NFEM intercepted 50,000 board feet of illegally-cut logs in Barangay Baranayan, Palimbang, Sultan Kudarat. However, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front reportedly objected to the presence of the NFEM elements who were there to arrest illegal loggers and confiscate the illegally-cut logs.
Estilles said the lawless elements they were referring to are not MILF members, but since they respect the peace process they decided to hold their operations where they could intercept illegally-cut logs being transported.
The new commanding officer of NFEM, Commodore Isabelo Gader, said, “the NFEM is supporting the efforts of the national government in the peace negotiations.”
A coast watch system capability exercise was conducted last September 3 to 7 in Davao City which was participated in by 31 representatives from different government agencies and local government units together with the NFEM to respond to maritime security and safety which include illegal activities.
