2 Chinese, Filipino interpreter post bail after arrest for possession of Agarwood

TACLOBAN CITY – Two Chinese nationals and their Filipino interpreter stepped out of jail here on Thursday after posting bail for charges of possession of pieces of Agarwood, an endangered tree species sought after for its supposed medicinal properties.

Li Lingkuan, 33, and Li Kiampo, 32, both residents of Quianznun City, Fujian province in China, as well as Victor Lopez, 58, of Surigao City each posted bail worth P102,000 in a court in Tacloban City.

They were charged for violation of the Revised Philippine Forestry Code after they were arrested for allegedly keeping Agarwood valued at P700,000 in Tanauan town, Leyte last Wednesday, July 15.

Police Master Sergeant Zacharias Mosca, the investigator of the Tanauan Police Station, said the three accused were on board a private vehicle on their way to Tacloban City from MacArthur town, also in Leyte, when they were apprehended by the Tanauan police and members of the Leyte Provincial Police Office.

“We received a tip that the suspects were on their way to Tacloban City so we right away positioned ourselves at Barangay Calogcog where we were able to apprehend them,” he said.

Mosca said the accused declined to provide information as to where they got the Agarwood.

Also seized from the accused were three units of weighing scales, a flame gun, and cash amounting to P503,000.

Agarwood, aloeswood or gharuwood is a fragrant dark resinous wood used in incense, perfume, and small carvings. It forms in the heartwood of aquilaria trees when they become infected with a type of mold.

Agarwood is sought after primarily for its warming qualities and for its soothing effects when burnt as incense. Powdered form of the species is also used to treat diarrhea, dysentery, vomiting, and anorexia.

/MUF