Local News: 40-Hectare Forest Burned
The 40-hectare newly planted g-melina trees for the reforestation project of the
government was reportedly burned intentionally by unknown individuals at 7:00
A.M. over the weekend, at Sitio Tanque, Brgy. Minoyan, Murcia, Negros
Occidental.
The said area was planted by the Provincial Environment and Management Office
(PEMO).
According to Lt. Col. Isabelo delos Reyes, Civil Military Operations (CMO)
Officer, 303rd Infantry Brigade, Philippine Army, a platoon of soldiers led by
Capt. Tony Pilas was sent to help in putting out the fire. Government personnel
who also responded in putting the fire were Edward Alcantara and Randy Gamboa of
the municipal agriculture and assessor’s office respectively, with Police Sr.
Supt. Tobongbanua of Task Force Ilahas and Brgy Minoyan Capt. James Bernalde.
However, due to strong winds, the forest trees were totally burned. Firefight by
the civilians and soldiers lasted until past 2:00 p.m.. It was only controlled
when heavy rains poured in. The authorities are still investigating the reason
of burning.* (EBColmo)
