A 28-year-old man was arrested in an entrapment operation for allegedly selling a chainsaw online illegally in Alabel, Sarangani.

Authorities said the suspect was selling the chainsaw for P15,000 on social media.

The suspect did not have a permit that authorized him to sell the regulated equipment.

The suspect claimed he was unaware that selling a chainsaw requires a permit from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

“Kung naa koy idea nganong ibaligya man nako? Kung kailangan siya’g permit sa DENR,” the suspect said.

According to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), selling a chainsaw requires both business registration and a special permit from DENR.

“Specific to the chainsaw regulated yan ni DENR. You have another permit. Tawag nato ana is special permit,” DTI-General Santos City OIC Chief, Eddie De Asis, said.

The suspect argued that the government should do more to inform the public about such regulations.

“Dapat kung ing-ana man magbutang silang (signages) sa barangay, mga karatula kani bawal ni magbaligya ing-ani nga walay permit,” the suspect added.

De Asis reminded business owners to be responsible and informed about legal requirements before engaging in any form of trade.

“Part sa government, we are doing our part through our Negosyo Center. Reminder lang sa atong business people you really have to be aware. Dapat alam mo. Do the homework,” De Asis said.