Gov’t is serious in curbing illegal logging, mining activities in Caraga – Robredo

By Robert E. Roperos

Tuesday 26th of June 2012

BUTUAN CITY, June 26 (PIA) -- Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse Robredo today said the government is serious in curbing illegal logging and mining activities in Caraga Region.

In today's press conference held in one of the local convention centers here, Robredo emphasized that in order for these illegal activities to stop, the government has been coordinating with the security forces such as the Philippine National Police (PNP).

The DILG chief also pointed out that those who are involved in these illegal activities should be held responsible in accordance with the law.

Robredo said government officials and employees who are involved in illegal activities will be relieved of their positions, and added that he will personally recommend to President Benigno Aquino III to relieve the said officials and government employees from their positions.

Further, Robredo stressed that the local media is of great help in the government's effort to curb illegal logging and mining operations in Caraga Region. He requested the media present to be with the PNP as they will serve as witnesses to the efforts of the police to stop these activities.

Robredo was here in the city yesterday to grace the Tapatan on Disaster Preparedness in Caraga Region.

The activity, which is anchored on two themes: “Preparedness Saves Lives” and “Kaluwasan sa Katalgman Kinahanglan Pangandaman,” also highlighted Robredo’s call to action in disaster readiness and response, as well as the signing of the pledge of commitment by the participants coming from the all local government units (LGU) in the region emphasizing the urgency and significance of placing disaster preparedness on top of the priority development agenda for LGUs as mandated under Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Circular 2010-143 dated December 9, 2010.

Said circular also aimed at strengthening LGU’s capability, particularly of the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council’s. This is also pursuant to Republic Act 10121, otherwise known as the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010. (RER-PIA 13 Caraga)