The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and local police have confiscated P3.6 million worth of illegally imported counterfeit chainsaws in a warehouse operation targeting Eseki Industrial Enterprises Corporation.
The joint buy-bust operation led to the seizure of 241 unregistered chainsaws—154 large units priced at P16,000 each and 87 medium units at P13,000 each—violating Section 7 (1) of Republic Act No. 9175, also known as the Chainsaw Act of 2002, which prohibits the sale or possession of chainsaws without proper permits.
DENR secretary Maria Antonia Yulo Loyzaga characterized the bust as a critical step in upholding environmental law. “This operation sends a strong signal that this administration is serious about enforcement of environmental laws,” Loyzaga said, noting it forms part of the broader strategy to combat environmental crimes in collaboration with the Department of Justice and the Department of the Interior and Local Government.
The DENR has signaled potential criminal charges against Eseki Industrial Enterprises and urged businesses to comply with environmental regulations. Authorities are also encouraging public cooperation in protecting forests and strengthening environmental governance.
Environmental advocates have long warned that illegal chainsaw operations fuel deforestation and undermine conservation efforts. The DENR’s latest move is expected to reinforce stricter regulatory oversight and deter future violations.
