The last quarter Regional Management Conference of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Cagayan Valley recently held in Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya highlighted milestones, and achievements in the implementation of its priority programs.

 

Undersecretary for Policy, Planning and International Affairs Jonas Leones in his message outlined strategies in the pursuit of a greener future and a steadfast governance.

 

“We must prioritize policies that foster environmental sustainability, address climate change challenges, and promote biodiversity conservation,” USec Leones emphasized adding the integration of initiatives that leverage technology, engage communities, and encourage sustainable practices.

 

In her speech, Regional Executive Director Gwendolyn Bambalan underscored the region's initiatives in 2023 while acknowledging the challenges that lie ahead in the coming year. She discussed some of her priority directions for 2024, which are aimed at improving the management and technical services operations.

 

During the conference, key officials discussed inventory of structures within forestlands which aid in monitoring and evaluation for renewal of issued 25-year tenurial instruments. They also tackled the one control maps of all the community environment and natural resources offices needed for the establishment of Natural Resource National Geospatial Database, a platform for planning and informed policy and decision-making.

 

The officials also immersed with Community-Based Forest Management-People’s Organization members of Federation of Vista Hills, Kalongkong and Kakilingan Upland Farmers, Inc. in Barangay Buena Vista to assist them in their forest and livelihood activities and to discuss vital solutions to climate change specifically on protecting biodiversity and building resilient communities.

 

Also gracing the event were incoming Assistant Regional Executive Director for Management Services Grace Cariño, Vice Governor Eufemia Dacayo, and Bayombong Mayor Antonio Sergio Bagasao.

The three-day conference concluded with an oath-taking ceremony for 44 newly appointed personnel from the provinces of Nueva Vizcaya, Isabela, and Quirino.#