The Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) Isabela recently facilitated an orientation seminar on environmental and natural resources laws among the chief and deputy chief of police in the province.

 

Police Major Pio Raneses of Isabela Police Provincial Office said in his welcome remarks the activity aims to enhance and equip the participants with knowledge on environmental laws, policies, rules, and regulations as they carry out responsibilities in conducting operations within their respective municipalities.

 

"We need to be updated on environmental laws to address confusions and queries and become skilled in handling environmental cases," Major Raneses said.

 

For his part, PENRO Isabela Chief Technical Services Division Giovanie Taguinod urged the participating police officers to listen attentively to the topics for a mutual understanding of special laws.

 

"Let us have a uniform interpretation of the different environmental laws. We hope for a fruitful interaction and eventually capacitate everyone on matters," he said.

 

Atty. Teodora Pagalilauan, land management officer III of PENRO Isabela, tackled the provisions of DENR Administrative Order No. 97-32 and its Prohibited Acts and Penalties, Implementing Rules and Regulations of Chainsaw Act of 2002, and other environmental-related topics.

 

The lawyer vouched that strengthening the existing mechanisms in environmental law enforcement, regulations, and policies is vital to address dangers posed to the environment and those who protect it.

 

Sixty-six uniformed men took the pre and post-tests, and selected participants gave an impression to the seminar course.

 

They said they were now equipped with proper concepts, skills, and techniques in law enforcement. As environmental defenders, they will be more competent particularly in utilizing practical technological know-how on forestry laws.#

By PENRO Isabela