By Pia Lorraine Francisco/PIA Capiz
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)-Capiz facilitated environmental restoration initiatives following an alleged illegal tree-cutting and land clearing activity in the Municipality of Pilar.
On June 23, Capiz provincial assistant department head Lyndorel Beup filed a complaint with DENR Capiz regarding the alleged illegal cutting of trees and land-clearing activities within a private property in Brgy. Sta. Fe.
DENR Capiz said the Monitoring and Enforcement Section (MES) immediately initiated the necessary investigation.
After an initial assessment, the investigation team conducted a ground verification and actual inventory of the remaining tree stumps on July 1, 2026, with the authorized representative of the property owners, local officials, and other concerned stakeholders.
The investigation found that numerous trees had been cut within the property without a Tree Cutting Permit issued by the DENR.
Following the submission of the investigation, DENR Capiz convened a technical conference with the local government unit of Pilar and concerned individuals.
The property owners voluntarily committed to planting 1,000 seedlings as part of the environmental restoration effort in identified forestlands within the municipality of Pilar.
As part of the commitment, 600 mangrove propagules and 400 native tree seedlings were planted during a tree-growing event in the barangays of San Esteban and San Ramon in Pilar to help restore forest and coastal ecosystems.
The agency added that to promote environmental responsibility and safeguard natural resources, the initiative emphasizes collaboration between government agencies, local government entities, private stakeholders, and the community.
Furthermore, DENR Capiz continues to encourage the public to report environmental violations and remains committed to enforcing environmental laws while promoting restorative and community-based approaches toward environmental protection. (Photo courtesy of DENR Capiz)
