Undersecretary for Policy, Planning and International Affairs Jonas Leones of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) urges Region 2 officials to be environmental change-maker advocates to further improve management of the forests and the environment.

 

“In order to fight the adverse impact of climate change, we must improve our ability to influence for a change among our audiences and stakeholders in supporting the priority programs of the DENR,” the environment undersecretary emphasized during the 4th quarter regional management conference on Dec. 18-20, this year at the Cocina ni Sophia, Cauayan City, Isabela.

 

He added the conference’ theme “New Normal Challenge: Sustainable Actions for Sustainable Future through ENR Science-Based Management,” was timely and connotes the DENR’s goal to be more proactive in the application of new technologies in climate change risks and reduction management.

 

The environment official commended the region for consistently being one of the recipients of the best Alternative Dispute Resolution Officers and Pool of ADR Officers awards. Your duties do not only limit in the protection of the environment but also extend to being facilitators of land claims and conflicts,” Atty. Leones underscored.

 

He also praised DENR Cagayan Valley being one of the KLIMA-likasan awardees for its collaborative efforts with the provincial local government unit (PLGU) of Cagayan to restore the Cagayan River and address the perennial issue of flooding in the province. He noted for the region's strong collaboration with LGUs and other stakeholders specifically on intensified information, education and communication campaign of the Department.

 

“I am also impressed by the number of partnerships and collaborations with mining companies, LGUs and other stakeholders to establish additional reforestation areas while tapping peoples organizations in the communities to maintain and protect the plantations. Through this, better livelihood and additional income await the people in the community as a result,” USec Leones said.

 

The environment undersecretary also encouraged key officials to serve as model and inspiration to others to produce empowered employees for them to excellently deliver functions toward a better environmental program implementation.#