Oriental Mindoro has banned the transport of wood charcoal in a bid to curb deforestation in the province.

Sangguniang Panlalawigan Ordinance No. 015-2011, authored by Board Member Romeo Infantado and acting Governor Humerlito A. Dolor, makes the transport of charcoal outside of the province illegal and violators will be jailed and fined.

About 100,000 sacks of wood charcoal are being shipped out by Oriental Mindoro traders for the fuel needs of the Calabarazon and Metro Manila residents.

The ordinance, passed by the provincial board on third and final reading May 5, said the continuing felling of trees to produce charcoal has caused deforestation, which is blamed for the recent massive flooding in the province.

First-time violators will be fined up to P1,500 or imprisoned for up to three days or both. For second-time offender, a fine of P3,500 and imprisonment of up to six days will be slapped. Offenders for the third time or more will pay P5,000 and will serve a jail time of up to 10 days.

The vehicles used for the transport of charcoal will be seized by authorities.