02/08/2023
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GENSAN BUSINESSMAN CHARGE FOR CONSTRUCTING ILLEGAL STRUCTURES INSIDE MATUTUM PROTECTED LANDSCAPE
In an unprecedented move since the proliferation of illegal structures in Mount Matutum Protected Landscape (MMPL) from 2019, Matutum Protected Area Management Superintendent (PASu) Efren C. Hibaler has finally filed the first case against Samuel Napala, a businessman from Gen. Santos City, for violating Republic Act 11038 or the Expanded National Integrated Protected Area System Act of 2008 (ENIPAS).
The case was filed before the Department of Justice (DOJ), National Prosecution Service (NPS) Office of the Provincial Prosecutor in Polomolok, South Cotabato with NPS docket number XII-08a-INV-236-00212 for violating RA 11038 or ENIPAS Act of 2018 specifically section 18, paragraphs C, J, N & O.
Paragraph C states: โCutting, gathering, removing or collecting timber โฆ without necessary permitโฆโ Paragraph J - โOperating any motorized equipment without permit from PAMB. Paragraph N - Occupying or dwelling in any public land without permit from PAMB. Paragraph O - Constructing, erecting, or maintaining any kind of structure, fence or enclosure, conducting any business enterprise within MMPL without clearance from PAMB and permit from DENR or conducting these activities in any manner that is inconsistent to the management plan approved by PAMB.
The violations carry a fine of not less than 1,000,000 pesos (P1,000,000.00) but not more than 5,000,000 pesos or imprisonment of six years but not more than 12 years, or both plus damages of triple the value of the said resources, or both, shall be imposed upon the person.
Napala is the first of the 48 unlawful occupants in Mount Matutum Protected Landscape (MMPL) who was charged before the court. More cases would be coming up, it was learned.