DENR 'appreciates' DiCaprio call on Masungi, but says no one exempted from law

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) on Thursday said no one was exempted from the law, after Hollywood actor and environmentalist Leonardo DiCaprio called for the protection of the Masungi Georeserve.

"We appreciate the statements of concern for the Philippine environment from international celebrities who are distinguished in their respective fields," the DENR said in a statement. "However, no one is exempt from the law." "As the DENR continues to take steps toward strengthening its compliance and enforcement capacities, we value all those parties who have submitted themselves to the required processes and procedures as defined by existing laws," it said.