Cebu Woman Arrested for Illegally Selling Endangered Agarwood Seedlings
A woman from San Fernando, Cebu was apprehended in an entrapment operation for allegedly selling critically endangered agarwood seedlings without the required government authorization. The operation was conducted by agents from the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) on the afternoon of Friday, February 20, 2026.
Details of the Arrest and Seizure
NBI-Cebu District Office head agent Arnel Pura confirmed that the illegal seller is a resident of Purok 5, Barangay Sangat, San Fernando, Cebu. She was caught in the act of selling, distributing, and cultivating agarwood, locally known as lapnisan and scientifically classified as Aquilaria cumingiana or Aquilaria malaccensis. Authorities seized 48 crates containing approximately 1,000 agarwood seedlings, with an estimated value of P300,000.
The individual reportedly admitted to operating this business since 2019 without securing the necessary permit from the DENR. She stated that the venture is highly profitable, with seedlings selling for between P250 and P1,000 each, depending on their size.
Legal Consequences and Environmental Impact
Under Republic Act 9147, the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act, violations such as this carry severe penalties, including imprisonment from six to 12 years and fines ranging from P100,000 to P1 million. The DENR emphasized that agarwood trees are highly valued for their resin, which is extensively used in the perfume industry, particularly in the Middle East.
Due to its threatened status and risk of extinction, the sale, transport, cultivation, and export of agarwood are strictly regulated. The species is listed as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. Charges for violation of Sections 27(e) and (f) of Republic Act 9147 are being prepared against the individual through inquest proceedings.
She is currently detained at the NBI-Cebu detention facility, awaiting resolution of her case by the Cebu Provincial Prosecutor's Office. This incident underscores the ongoing efforts to combat illegal wildlife trade and protect endangered species in the Philippines.
