DILG Orders Crackdown on Illegal Loggers and Miners Amidst Devastating Floods in Luzon

Strategic Insights -

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has launched a crackdown on illegal loggers and miners in the wake of the recent massive floods that submerged parts of Luzon due to typhoons. Interior Secretary Eduardo Ano has ordered the Philippine National Police (PNP) to go after those responsible for the destruction, citing them as a major reason for the unprecedented widespread flooding. In addition to the existing war on drugs and criminality, the PNP will now prioritize the war on illegal logging. The crackdown also includes a program to encourage local government units to plant trees, with the goal of planting 200 million trees starting next year.

Key Takeaways:

  • The DILG has ordered a crackdown on illegal loggers and miners in areas affected by the floods, particularly in Cagayan, Isabela, and the Bicol region.
  • Interior Secretary Eduardo Ano has given an order to the Philippine National Police (PNP) to crack down on illegal logging and mining.
  • The PNP's priorities now include the war on illegal logging, in addition to the war on drugs and criminality.
  • The goal is to plant 200 million trees starting next year, with the DILG encouraging local government units to participate in the national greening program.
  • The DILG will release memorandum circulars and department orders to support the program and encourage widespread tree planting.
  • Secretary Ano has strengthened a program for local government units to encourage its constituents to plant trees.
  • Cagayan and Isabela provinces were among the most affected by the massive floods caused by Typhoon Ulysses and water released from the Magat Dam.

Statistics:

  • 200 million: The number of trees to be planted as part of the national greening program starting next year.
  • Monetary value not specified: The extent of the destruction and damage caused by illegal logging and mining.
  • Percentage not specified: The number of areas affected by the floods in Cagayan, Isabela, and the Bicol region.

Sources:

  • The Philippine Inquirer - Laging Handa online press briefing on November 14, 2020.
  • Undersecretary Jonathan Malaya's statement on Interior Secretary Eduardo Ano's order to the PNP.
  • DILG spokesman's statement on the agency's plan to encourage local government units to plant trees.