By Dean Aubrey Caratiquet
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and local authorities in Valenzuela City successfully seized approximately P3.6 million worth of illegally imported counterfeit chainsaws in a buy-bust operation on Tuesday, April 15.
The counterfeit products were found in the possession of Eseki Industrial Enterprises Corporation as they were being unloaded and prepared for sale and distribution in the country.
This haul comprises a total of 241 chainsaw units valued at P3,589,000, which includes 154 large chainsaws priced at P16,000 each and 87 medium chainsaws priced at P13,000 each.
Eseki Industrial Enterprises Corporation faces potential criminal charges under Republic Act No. 9175, also known as the Chainsaw Act of 2002. Specifically, the company breached Section 7 (1) of the Act, which prohibits the sale, distribution, or possession of chainsaws without the necessary permits.
DENR Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo Loyzaga emphasized the importance of this seizure as part of the government’s broader strategy to combat environmental crimes in partnership with the Department of Justice and the Department of Interior and Local Government.
Additionally, authorities are calling on the public to support the government’s efforts to safeguard forests, enhance environmental governance, and preserve the country’s rich natural heritage.
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