Manila, June 28 -- The Philippine National Police (PNP) has directed regional directors and police commanders to strengthen coordination with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in intensifying operations against illegal logging and mining.

Following the arrest of three people for illegal mining activities that degraded the environment in Barangay Bahi in Barobo, Surigao del Sur, PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. underscored that protecting forests requires close collaboration among government agencies and local communities.

Nartatez said this aligns with the directives of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla for all agencies to collaborate in protecting the environment....