A local court in Polomolok, South Cotabato has convicted an individual for building structures within the Strict Protection Zone (SPZ) of Mt. Matutum in Sitio Glandang, Barangay Kablon, Tupi town.

According to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources Office-SOCCSKSARGEN (DENR-12), the Regional Trial Court, Branch 63, found the individual guilty beyond reasonable doubt of violating the National Integrated Protected Areas System Act of 1992 (RA 7586) as amended by ENIPAS Act (RA 11038).

The court rendered its decision on November 20, 2025.

The individual was fined P2 million and the illegal structures were ordered demolished within three months.

DENR-12 said that since 2023, the Protected Area Management Office of Mt. Matutum Protected Landscape (PAMO-MMPL) instituted legal proceedings against 24 violators involved in the illegal construction of structures in the area.

The agency added that the cases against five respondents were dismissed after they demolished the structures voluntarily.

“This latest court ruling underscores the firm commitment of the Department, PAMO-MMPL, and PAMB to uphold environmental laws and safeguard protected areas from encroachment,” DENR-12 said.

“PAMO-MMPL continues to rehabilitate and restore affected sites within the SPZ where unauthorized constructions have been cleared and encourages the public and surrounding communities to support ongoing conservation efforts by adhering to zoning regulations and immediately reporting any illegal activities within the MMPL,” DENR-12 added.