DENR-XI cites 26 environment champions

Wednesday 4th of July 2012

DAVAO CITY, July 4 -- The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR-XI) recently recognized 26 officials from the national and local government units and business sector for the latter’s significant contribution in the protection of the environment in the region.

DENR-XI bestowed plaques of recognition to 19 officials from the LGUs, four from the business sectors and three from the national government agencies.

The citation was given to the officials for their sincere efforts and significant contribution in the management, protection and conservation of the environment and natural resources in the region.

Among the LGU officials cited were Congresswoman Thelma Z. Almario of the 2nd District of Davao Oriental and Provincial Governors Douglas RA Cagas (Davao del Sur), Corazon N. Malanyaon (Davao Oriental), Rodolfo del Rosario (Davao del Norte), and Arturo T. Uy (Compostela Valley Province).

The recognition was for their exemplary performance in assisting the DENR in the implementation of its programs and projects especially Executive Order No. 26 or the National Greening Program (NGP) and Executive Order No. 23 or the moratorium on the cutting and harvesting of trees in the natural and residual forests in the country.

Also given recognition for their active participation and cooperation in the implementation of EO 23 and 26 were Battalion Commander Gabriel C. Viray III of 84th IB, 7th ID and Col. Ruben S. Basiao of the 67th IB, 10th ID of the Philippine Army as well as Police Chief Inspector Roberto C. Espina of the Philippine National Police.

Topping the list of awardees was the office of the Sangguniang Panlungsod of Davao City that received a plaque of recognition from DENR Secretary Ramon J. P. Paje for enacting ordinances geared towards environmental protection particularly City Ordinance No. 0361-10 with emphasis on Rule VI, Section 10 which states “Ban of Non-Bio Plastic Bags and Polystyrene Foam as Food Containers.”

Several cities and municipal mayors were also given commendation for their unparalleled dedication in protecting the natural resources and environment in their respective area of responsibility.

Given plaques of recognition were Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio of Davao City, Mayor Rey T. Uy of Tagum City, Jose L. Silvosa of Panabo City Joel Ray L. Lopez of Sta. Cruz, and Manuel B. Brillantes Jr. of Monkayo.

For his dedication in implementing NGP in his barangay, Barangay Captain Claudio Fuentes Hoybia of Garcia Heights, Bajada, Davao City also received a plaque of recognition.

Among the business sectors that were given commendations for their compliance to the environmental standards, rules and regulations are San Miguel Brewery, Inc., Franklin Baker Company of the Philippines, Inc., Coca-Cola Bottlers Philippines, Inc., and Holcim Philippines, Inc.

The awarding ceremony headed by Regional Executive Director Jim O Sampulna was done during DENR-XI’s Environment Month Culmination Program held at the DENR-XI Quadrangle, Lanang, Davao City. (DENR-XI)