πππ₯ππ°ππ§ β The Palawan Council for Sustainable Development Staff (PCSDS) has intensified its operations against illegal chainsaw use across the province, resulting in the apprehension of several individuals and the confiscation of multiple unregistered chainsaws in El Nido, Bataraza, and Taytay between October and December 2025.
On October 28, 2025, the PCSDS Enforcement Team apprehended two individuals in Sitio Dimirawat, Barangay Teneguiban, El Nido for operating a chainsaw without the required permit. Responding to a report at around 3:35 PM, the team found the individuals cutting a coconut tree using an unauthorized chainsaw. Confiscated from the site were one (1) chainsaw unit, one (1) bolo with holster, and one (1) toolbox. The individuals were charged for violating Republic Act 9175 (Chainsaw Act of 2002) and PCSD Administrative Order No. 7, which govern chainsaw ownership and forest protection in Palawan.
In a separate operation on November 24, 2025, the PCSDS Enforcement Team confiscated an unregistered OGAWA chainsaw during a mobile patrol in Sitio Litasan, Barangay Buliluyan, Bataraza. The team encountered an ongoing coco lumber operation and, upon inspection, confirmed that the operator had no permits for the chainsaw. The chainsaw was confiscated by the Team upon the issuance of the seizure receipt.
Most recently, on December 3, 2025, the PCSDS North Enforcement Team, together with the 27th Marine Company / 7th Marine Rifle Battalion, seized another unregistered chainsaw in Sitio Aborlan, Barangay Pularaquen (Canique), Taytay. Following a citizen report, the team conducted surveillance and eventually traced the sound of a running chainsaw. They caught an individual who failed to present any permit for the chainsaw, leading to its confiscation for violating R.A. 9175 and PCSD AO No. 7. The individual was brought to the barangay hall for blotter and identity verification before being released.
The PCSDS reiterates that the unauthorized use, possession, and operation of chainsaws is strictly prohibited under national and local regulations. The agency continues to urge the public to report similar illegal activities to help safeguard Palawanβs forests and natural resources.
