Part II Community-Based Forest Management Program - ppmrn

APPROPRIATE SAFEKEEPING PROCEDURES
INTRODUCTION
Among the activities undertaken by the DENR is confiscation of illegal logs
and conveyances. These confiscated forest products could only be of use to the
government if the same is properly protected, preserved and eventually
disposed of.
Proper protection and preservation of physical and economic value of
confiscated products would entail sound safekeeping measures which cover
provision of adequate storage facilities and accurate recording system.
The audit disclosed that confiscated forest products were not immediately
disposed and deposited at various places exposed to deterioration. The total
value of these products could not be immediately determined due to the
DENR’s failure to record some forfeitures and disposals.
OBSERVATION
Forfeiture of confiscated abandoned/no claimant forest products were
not facilitated due to the failure of the CENROs to conduct
administrative summary proceedings and delayed issuance of forfeiture
order. This resulted in accumulation in quantities which could no
longer be protected by DENR Offices. These then were stored in open
spaces exposed to deterioration and loss. There were also forfeiture
orders which were not booked up.
Executive Order No. 277 dated July 25, 1987 provides that forest resources may
be effectively conserved and protected through the vigilant enforcement and
implementation of forestry laws, rules and regulations. For this purpose, the
Head of the DENR or his duly authorized representative is authorized to order
the confiscation of any forest products illegally cut, gathered, removed,
possessed or abandoned, and all conveyances used either by land, water or air in
the commission of the offense and to dispose of the same in accordance with
pertinent laws, regulations or policies on the matter.
Disposition of confiscated forest products of the DENR is governed by
Administrative Order (AO) No. 50 which provides, among others, that these
can be disposed of through donation to LGUs and other government agencies to
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