Hot logs seized in Ecija; men nabbed

GEN. TINIO, Nueva Ecija – The anti-illegal logging task force here led by Mayor Virgilio Bote seized some 10,000 illegally cut logs last Thursday.

Bote said the log haul, consisting of red lauan, was intercepted while being transported through the Sumacbao River in Barangay Rio Chico by 15 local residents. The cut logs came from Barangay Ibuna in Dingalan.

“This shows our determination to stop the scourge of illegal logging in our jurisdiction which has been there since time immemorial,” he said.

One of those arrested, identified only as a certain Ogie, called on President Aquino to provide them with a stable source of alternative livelihood to wean them away from illegal logging.

Ogie, 39, told newsmen he was involved in illegal logging since he was 15.