Zambo Sur Guv orders filing of charges vs mangrove destroyers

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?&sid=6&pfn=734745&arch=1&go=Go&search_arch=Pagadian%20City,%20Zamboanga%20del%20Sur&andor=and&mdte_arch=2&ddte_arch=0&ydte_arch=2015

Posted by JONG CADION, Mindanao Pagadian Frontline

Gov. Tony Cerilles during the actual inspection at

The mangrove area in Dinas, Zamboanga del Sur

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur, Feb. 13, 2015 -– Gov. Antonio Cerilles has ordered the Task Force Bakawan to investigate and file charges against the people behind the destruction of the mangrove in Barangay Pisaan, Dinas, this province.

Cerilles issued the order after he received report supported with photographs that the mangrove areas in Barangay Pisaan, Dinas, are already denuded.

Reports stated the mangroves were cut by the residents who are engaged in charcoal business. The charcoal they produced is reportedly being sold in this city.

Over the weekend, the Task Force Bakawan has confiscated 51 sacks of charcoal made of mangrove and several illegally cut mangrove trees.

Cerilles said charges must be filed against those responsible since the cutting of mangroves is prohibited under existing law.

“It might be true they are poor but they are abusive and they destroyed the things which can help the poor like them,” Cerilles said.

Mangrove forests serve as spawning area for fish and crustaceans as well as habitat to oysters. It also protects coastal areas from erosion and storm surge.

Cerilles has also directed the task force to filed charges against those who are behind the illegal construction of fishponds.