Government forces in Basilan province have made a significant environmental enforcement breakthrough, confiscating a cache of illegally harvested lauan timber in a region once notorious as a militant stronghold.
Major Seizure in Former Conflict Zone
On Saturday, January 10, 2025, a joint operation led by the military and local authorities successfully seized several illegally cut lauan logs. The confiscation took place in Sitio Sampinit, within Mahatalang village in the municipality of Sumisip.
The location is part of the Sampinit Complex, an area historically known as a bastion of the Abu Sayyaf Group. This complex spans the tri-boundary of Lamitan City and the towns of Sumisip and Maluso, making it a critical zone for environmental protection efforts.
Sagip Kalikasan Campaign in Action
This anti-illegal logging operation marks the largest enforcement action to date under the Basilan Provincial Government's "Sagip Kalikasan" (Save Nature) campaign. The initiative, launched by Basilan Governor Mujiv Hataman's Executive Order No. 19, Series of 2025, aims to safeguard the province's forests, rivers, and coastlines.
Governor Hataman personally commended the government operatives for their swift action. He emphasized the campaign's dual purpose: protecting natural resources and creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities.
The operation was a collaborative effort spearheaded by Lieutenant Colonel Gerwin Maghuyop and the 32nd Infantry Battalion (32IB), in coordination with the Sumisip Municipal Police Station and the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office based in Maluso.
Ongoing Investigations and Strong Warning
Authorities have confirmed that investigations are actively ongoing to identify the owners of the confiscated lauan logs. The goal is to file appropriate charges against those responsible for the illegal activity.
Governor Hataman issued a stern warning to individuals and groups involved in illegal logging. "We warn those continuing to cut and sell trees illegally to stop immediately before they are apprehended and become adversaries in our fight to protect our environment," he stated.
He further stressed the profound connection between the local economy and a healthy ecosystem, adding, "The livelihood of countless Basileños depends on a protected and healthy natural ecosystem." The provincial government vows to strengthen the implementation of the Sagip Kalikasan campaign to ensure the long-term preservation of Basilan's vital natural resources.
