Application Requirements
- Applicants must submit a completed prescribed application form to the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO).
- The Social Forestry Desk Officer (SFDO) processes and recommends the application to the Community Environment and Natural Resources Officer (CENR Officer) for approval.
Application Processing Procedures
- Inventory: SFDO conducts a 100% inventory of the area applied for within 10 days, free of charge, considering conservation factors like trees to remain, soil erosion, and stream bank protection.
- For devolved areas, inventory is jointly conducted with Local Government Units’ Community Development Officers.
- Trees/non-timber products are distinctly marked; inventory report is submitted within 5 days after completion.
- Permit Preparation: SFDO prepares the permit to harvest using the prescribed format.
- Issuance: CENR Officer issues the permit, valid up to six months, renewable based on resource availability.
- Notification: Copies of issued permits shall be furnished immediately to PENRO, RENRO, FMB, and Undersecretary for Field Operations; failure to do so invalidates the permit and incurs administrative liability.
Conditions of the Harvesting Permit
- Only mature trees and non-timber products inventoried may be harvested.
- Transport, disposition, and utilization must comply with existing forest and revenue laws and regulations.
- All shipments must be accompanied by a Certificate of Origin issued by the CENR Officer.
- Permit issuance is subject to SFDO recommendation and presentation of an Auxiliary Invoice.
- Permittee may export harvested trees but must follow proper export documentation and procedures.
- Permittee must submit monthly and terminal reports after permit expiry.
Suspension and Cancellation
- Permits may be suspended or cancelled for violations of permit conditions or applicable forestry laws.
Penalties
- Harvesting or transporting forest products without a permit is illegal and punishable under Section 68 of PD 705 (as amended) and other relevant laws.
Repealing Clause
- All inconsistent previous orders, issuances, and instructions are repealed, revoked, or amended accordingly.
Effectivity
- The Order is effective immediately upon adoption on September 10, 1996.