Bukidnon Municipality is seeking permission from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to recover and repurpose premium hardwood trees uprooted by a landslide. The trees, some estimated to be up to 100 years old, were damaged in a massive landslide that occurred earlier this month. The municipal government has formally requested the DENR to allow the use of the trees for public purposes.

The landslide, which affected the area of San Fernando, Bukidnon, caused significant damage to local infrastructure and homes. Local officials are now looking to repurpose the hardwood as part of recovery efforts. However, the DENR has yet to respond to the request, raising questions about the environmental impact of using the trees.

The trees, which are considered valuable for their quality and age, could be used in public projects or for reforestation. The municipality hopes to find a sustainable solution that balances environmental concerns with community needs. The situation highlights the challenges of managing natural resources in the wake of natural disasters.

The DENR is expected to evaluate the request based on environmental regulations and the potential impact on the local ecosystem. (newsinfo.inquirer.net)