CEBU CITY – The Region 7 office of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has warned the public against buying illegal logs because aside from the fact that it is punishable under the law, it also contributes to the harmful effects of global warming.

Isabelo Montejo, DENR 7 chief for forestry management, said the public should be critical in purchasing lumber since mere position of illegal logs is punishable by virtue of Executive Order 277.

He also said that if the practice of illegal logging will continue, then people should expect the worst case scenario on landslides and flooding, among others.

Montejo pointed out that for those who want to ensure the legality of their purchased lumber, they must asked for the official receipt from the lumber dealer where they bought the material.

"Costumers could also check for the certificate of lumber origin (CLO) issued by the DENR in case they are purchasing logs such as lawaan and other natural growing trees," he said.

He added that the CLO will determine if the lumber was legally purchased from an accredited supplier because it will specify the place where the logs came from and its shipment procedure, while for planted tress like gmelina, a self-monitoring form is also required.

The DENR official also stressed that they are requiring lumber dealers in the region to pass a monthly report on their lumber delivery to check on the log sources.

"Stores that fail to submit their monthly report will be subject to sanctions which may lead to the cancellation of their permit," said Montejo.