Mindanao wood processors want EO 23 provisions changed

Northern Mindanao tree planters and wood processors are asking the Environment Department to return the one-year supply contract for “tree planted species" instead of the five-year supply contract mandated by Executive Order (EO) 23 or the moratorium on logging. Tree planted species refer to trees grown for lumber. Under EO 23, sawmills and other wood processing plants have to prove that they have a sustainable source of legally cut wood for a period of at least five years to continue operation. “Both tree planters and wood processors agree that long-term-supply contracts do not guarantee sustainability and are subject to more problems like pole vaulting and price fixing," Tree Planter and Wood Processors Federation Inc. spokesperson Mariano Velez said late Wednesday. Velez asserted that a one-year supply contract for tree planted species is more practical, sustainable and acceptable. The group is also asking the government to return the authority to evaluate the wood processing permits of those operating in tree plantations to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources’ regional offices. Additionally, they are asking the department to deregulate the tree planted species planting-to-delivery supply chain because the industry provides more jobs for more people. According to the group, a big portion of the country’s wood exports are from the region. Industry figures report that wood exports from Northern Mindanao reached 316.687 million kilos in 2010, worth around $63 million. Wood exporters have said that this year’s export revenue may decrease in contrast to the five-year uptrend of wood export volume and value because of EO 23. “All we’re saying is to let our industry breathe and grow. The livelihood of 40,000 workers in Northern Mindanao will be affected if this new trend will continue," Philippine Wood Producers Association (PWPA) Board member Antonio Olizon said. Last month, the PWPA asked the government to extend deadlines for the hauling of previously cut lumber in order for investors to recoup investments. Under EO 23, wood producers were given three months grace to transport timber cut before the EO was enforced. The grace period expired on May 21. — BC/VS, GMA News