SM Baguio tree-cutting suspended: DENR exec

By Paul Rillorta

BAGUIO CITY – The controversial cutting of trees at the SM compound here have been suspended, a top official of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Cordillera bared Monday clarifying an order suspending processing of all requests and applications for tree cutting permits here.

During city council session July 2, Augusto Lagon, DENR technical director for forest management said DENR memorandum dated April 3, 2012 issued by DENR undersecretary Analiza Rebuelte-Teh deferred and suspended processing of all requests and applications for tree cutting permits nationwide until further notice.

This was in answer to queries from the council on tree cutting permits being issued by the DENR regional office in the city. 

Lagon however said another memorandum dated June 22, 2012 also from Undersecretary Teh clarified the first order stating this time the suspension for tree cutting permits covered only naturally grown trees within public forests and timberlands.

The order also stated the suspension dis not cover naturally grown trees within private or titled property, planted trees within public forest and private lands and those covered by exemptions provided in Executive Order 23.

EO 23 or the moratorium issued by President Aquino prohibited the DENR from issuing or renewing tree cutting permits in all natural and residual forests nationwide, except for clearing of road right of way by the Department of Public Works and Highways, site preparation for tree plantations, silvicultural treatment and similar activities, provided that all logs derived from said cutting permits shall be turned over to the DENR for proper disposal.

It also allowed the issuance of permits for tree cutting associated with cultural practices pursuant to the Indigenous Peoples Right Act (IPRA Law) subject to strict compliance with existing guidelines of the DENR.

The DENR was invited primarily to shed light on the status of permits issued to SM Development Corp. on the cutting, pruning and earthballing of trees at Luneta Hill.

Lagon said permits issued to SM were suspended as they were complying with the orders of the court.

Lagon also said, “the trees earthballed by the mall giant has indications of survival.” – Paul Rillorta