Illegal Treasure Hunting Probed in South Cotabato's Protected Mt. Matutum

KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato — Environment and police authorities are investigating suspected illegal treasure hunting inside the protected Mt. Matutum, South Cotabato’s landmark peak, following excavations in Polomolok town. Engr. Agustin Valencia Jr., Polomolok Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO) chief, said Wednesday that they first inspected the site in Purok Macarandan, Barangay Palkan, Valencia said they confirmed suspicious digging activities in the area. "We went there and we saw the digging," he said. He added that MENRO is coordinating with the police to conduct a thorough investigation on the matter. Mt. Matutum is a protected landscape and seascape under Presidential Proclamation No. 248. It is home to diverse species of plants and animals, including the Philippine eagle, kingfisher, and the endemic Matutum tarseer. It is also a source of water for several communities in the province. Illegal treasure hunting is a violation of Republic Act No. 9147, or the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act, and Presidential Proclamation No. 248. Violators may face penalties, including imprisonment and fines. The provincial government has been urging the public to report any illegal activities in protected areas to the authorities.