Question & AnswerQ&A (Republic Act No. 9175)
The official title of Republic Act No. 9175 is the "Chain Saw Act of 2002."
The primary policy objective is to conserve, develop, and protect forest resources under sustainable management by regulating the ownership, possession, sale, transfer, importation, and use of chain saws to prevent illegal logging and unauthorized clearing of forests.
A 'chain saw' is defined as any portable power saw or similar cutting implement, operated by an electric or internal combustion engine or similar means, used for felling trees or cutting timber.
Only manufacturers, dealers, and private owners who are duly authorized by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) are allowed to sell and/or import chain saws.
Permits are valid for three (3) years, except for non-commercial orchard and fruit tree farmers for whom the permits are valid for five (5) years.
Punishment includes imprisonment from four years, two months, and one day to six years, or a fine of P15,000 to P30,000, or both, plus confiscation of the chain saws.
A fine of P1,000 to P4,000 and imprisonment of one month to six months are imposed for unlawful importation or manufacturing of chain saws without prior authorization from the Department.
Tampering with the original registered engine serial number is punishable by imprisonment of one month to six months and a fine of P1,000 to P4,000.
Penalties include imprisonment of six years and one day to eight years, or a fine of P30,000 to P50,000, or both, with confiscation of the chain saw. Public officials committing such violations will be removed from office and permanently disqualified from holding public office.