Benguet seeks law on oleoresin tapping ban

THE Benguet Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office has called on officials of the province to update an existing ordinance banning pine tree resin or oleoresin extraction.

BPENRO head Julius Kollin said a resolution was already crafted back in the 80’s banning the practice but the law needs updating to further protect and conserve pine forests for the present and future generation by banning pine tree resin or oleoresin tapping in the province except in the areas covered under concession ready for logging.

Oleoresin is a raw material for the production of oil, varnish, and cosmetics.

"The SP resolution was never repealed by any SP action, it was only 1982 that ordinances were made. We have to update our resolution and re-legislate a timely ordinance," said Kollin.

Kollin said they oppose tapping of oleoresin as it destroys the form of the pine con-

sidering the bark is scraped off to allow the free flow of the oleoresin.

"Once the bark is scraped off, there is no possibility that it would go back to its original form," said Kollin.

Kollin however said their office does not object to tapping of oleoresin in pine reforestation sites.

The environment official added a resolution was earlier crafted banning oleoresin extraction and seeks the help of the board to file the necessary ordinance.

Kollin observed areas where tapping of oleoresin are more susceptible to forest fire. This was validated among tappers in the municipality of Itogon.

BPENRO’s plea was referred to the committee on environment and natural resources.