CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga (PIA) — The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is urging communities across Central Luzon to engage more actively in environmental protection efforts.
During the eighth episode of the Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas of the Philippine Information Agency, DENR Regional Executive Director Ralph Pablo stressed the importance of collective action in achieving sustainable development and combating climate change.
“Our programs are designed to bring together the government, private sector, and communities to work towards a cleaner and greener future,” he said.
Pablo highlighted the DENR’s efforts in the Manila Bay Rehabilitation Program, which uses a newly developed dashboard by the Geospatial Database Office (GDO) to identify critical cleanup and rehabilitation areas.
This tool enhances the DENR’s ability to coordinate efforts and track progress effectively.
“Through the GDO’s expertise, we can pinpoint areas that need immediate attention and allocate resources efficiently,” he noted.
DENR is also spearheading Project Transform in Bataan, a transdisciplinary approach aimed at creating resilient and sustainable communities.
This project involves collaborations with local governments, national agencies, and private entities to protect mangrove areas, inventory public lands, and establish air quality monitoring stations.
“Project Transform exemplifies our commitment to inclusive, science-based, and data-driven solutions to address climate change,” Pablo highlighted.
Additionally, DENR has launched a massive cleanup convergence project in collaboration with the Department of Labor and Employment, the Philippine Coast Guard, and Pampanga 4th district representative Anna York Bondoc’s office.
This initiative empowers over 2,500 displaced workers to participate in the Manila Bay cleanup and rehabilitation, providing both environmental and economic benefits.
“We are not only improving our environment but also creating job opportunities for those in need,” Pablo added.
The agency’s efforts also extend to marine research, with the establishment of a new marine research station in Aurora.
This facility will support ecosystem-based approaches to coastal and marine resource management, fostering partnerships and collaboration with various stakeholders.
“Our goal is to protect and sustainably manage our maritime resources, ensuring their health and productivity for future generations,” he emphasized.
The DENR’s call for community engagement underscores the belief that environmental protection is a shared responsibility. By working together, communities can help build a sustainable future and address the pressing challenges of climate change. (CLJD/RPQ, PIA Region 3- Pampanga)
