Outgoing Executive Director Dr. Theresa Mundita S. Lim presents a moss plaque symbolizing ASEAN biodiversity to Ms. Clarissa C. Arida, Senior Director of the Programmes Department, who is now serving as the Acting Executive Director of the ACB. (Photo courtesy: Public Engagement Division, Communication Department, ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity)
QUEZON CITY, (PIA) — Dr. Theresa Mundita S. Lim officially concluded her six-year tenure as the executive director of the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity (ACB) on November 13, 2024, during a turnover ceremony at the ACB headquarters.
Dr. Lim, who made history as the first female executive director of the ACB, reflected on her tenure, which began in 2018 after nearly 15 years at the helm of the Biodiversity Management Bureau in the Philippines.
In her farewell speech, Dr. Lim recounted the challenges and triumphs of her leadership, stating, “Six years, six months, and 28 days ago, I took the leap from my comfort zone into uncharted territory. Navigating the complexities of international collaboration was both daunting and exciting.”
Despite the hurdles posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Lim’s term was marked by significant achievements, including the declaration of 22 new ASEAN Heritage Parks and the enhancement of biodiversity conservation efforts across the region.
She emphasized the importance of stakeholder engagement and innovative approaches to mainstreaming biodiversity into policy and decision-making.

Members of the ACB Executive Committee presented a portrait of Dr. Lim, created by Althea Roa, a Young ASEAN Storyteller, as a farewell gift. (Photo courtesy: Public Engagement Division, Communication Department, ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity)
“We weathered the challenges of the pandemic together, finding creative ways to keep the office running and supporting each other during lockdowns,” Dr. Lim noted, expressing gratitude to her colleagues for their unwavering support.
Under her leadership, the ACB strengthened its portfolio through new partnerships and impactful communication campaigns, engaging renowned storytellers and activating youth participation.
This year, the ACB was designated as one of the world’s 18 regional technical support centers for the implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.
Dr. Lim also played a crucial role in the ACB’s accreditation as an official observer in the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA).
She revitalized the ASEAN Biodiversity Fund and initiated institutional reforms to position the ACB as a center of excellence in biodiversity.
Messages of appreciation poured in from various partners, ASEAN member states, and colleagues.
H.E. Ambassador Constance See from Singapore commended Dr. Lim for her dedication to promoting biodiversity, while Indonesian Deputy Director Badiah Achmad Said praised her contributions to regional unity in biodiversity conservation.
As the ACB seeks a new executive director, Ms. Clarissa C. Arida, Senior Director of the Programmes Department, will step in as the Acting Executive Director.
Dr. Lim’s legacy of visionary leadership and commitment to biodiversity conservation leaves a lasting impact on the ACB and the ASEAN region. (GLG/PIA-NCR)