The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) called on the Barangay Council of Bool in Tagbilaran City to take action against illegal settlers within a mangrove forest in the said village.
In a report submitted to Community Environment and Natural Resources officer Laurentino Bautista, it was indicated that the number of illegal settlers in the said forest area has been growing.
The increasing population and number of illegal establishments have caused damages to the mangrove forest, the report said.
A forest ranger of the DENR has so far detected 10 illegal residences in the area.
Authorities identified the residents as Belen Bricole, Carlos Jaluag, Constancio Jaluag, Dalen Ramirez, Roel Baguia, Lino Saquis,Wilson Colancolan, Vilty Acabal,Pedro Cabanag and Bernardo Jaluag.
The recent discovery has prompted environmental authorities to call for hastened action from concerned barangay officials.
As of this report’s posting, officials have yet to address the issue. (WM)