Two men were arrested on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, for cutting down coconut trees without a permit in Barangay Binlod, Argao. The suspects, identified as Jessie, 43, and Cardo, 46, both residents of Barangay Usmad in the same town, are now detained at the Argao Police Station facing charges of illegal cutting of coconut trees.
Police Assistance Requested by PCA
According to reports, personnel from the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) requested police assistance after receiving a tip about illegal cutting of coconut trees in the area. Authorities caught the two suspects in the act. Seized from them were a chainsaw and 59 pieces of coco lumber, valued at over P10,000.
The incident occurred at around 3:15 PM on July 7, 2026. The PCA and local police continue to investigate the case to determine if there are other individuals involved in the illegal activity.
Legal Consequences
Illegal cutting of coconut trees is a violation of the Coconut Preservation Act, which aims to protect the coconut industry in the Philippines. Offenders may face fines and imprisonment. The suspects are currently in police custody and will be formally charged in court.
