Group of Hikers May Face Charges For Picking Endangered Pitcher Plant, DENR Says
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources said that the hikers who picked endangered pitcher plant may face charges.
On Friday (February 12, 2021), DENR Undersecretary Jonas Leones said that the group of hikers who picked some endangered pitcher plants in Marinduque may face charges because of their irresponsible act.
In the photo, it can be seen that one of the hikers is holding a handful of the endangered pitcher plant. The plant is very rare in the country and the government prohibits the public from picking this species.
“Based on the post sa internet, nakita natin ‘yung species na very rare na pitcher plant. Ito ‘yung talagang nasa top 10 natin na ipinagbabawal na kunin dito. ‘Yun ‘yung nakita nating mga ebidensiya na puwedeng gamitin when we file our case against them,” Leones said.
Some of the hikers have issued a public apology because of their responsible act. The group returned the plants to the area but it is already withered. “Humihingi po ako ng pasensiya at paumanhin, sadyang nadala lang po kami sa mga kagandahan ng halaman,” a hiker said.
The hikers could face charges for violating the Wildlife Act of 2001, which has a fine of P10,000 to P1,000,000 and jail imprisonment of 10 to 12 years.
What can you say about this? Just leave your comments and suggestions for this report.
You can also read: DENR Suspends Dolomite Mining Operations Of Two Companies In Cebu