SALVADOR, Lanao del Norte (PIA) — The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)-10 and key stakeholders signed a memorandum of agreement on August 15 to create and institutionalize the Maranding Watershed Management Council.
This council will protect the Maranding Watershed, one of the country’s 131 critical watersheds, essential for water supply, flood control, soil conservation, climate regulation, and local community and wildlife support.
The watershed is home to the ASEAN Heritage Park, Mt. Inayawan Range Natural Park, which serves as its headwater. It also supports the Kapatagan Valley, known as the “Rice Granary of Lanao del Norte,” with a population of 722,902, according to the 2020 census.
Additionally, the watershed feeds into Panguil Bay, a key resource for the region’s fishery sector.
DENR-10 Regional Executive Director Henry Adornado emphasized the importance of good management practices and community involvement in conservation efforts. “By understanding and valuing the Maranding Watershed, we can work together to safeguard its critical resources for future generations,” he stated, calling for collaboration among local governments, national agencies, NGOs, academic institutions, and the private sector.
Adornado acknowledged the support of the Provincial Government of Lanao del Norte, led by Governor Imelda Quibranza-Dimaporo, for its dedication to environmental programs and connecting with local communities to support these initiatives.
Salvador Municipal Mayor Hassanor Tawantawan praised DENR-10’s commitment to environmental protection, noting that the water management council will benefit all municipalities surrounding the watershed.
“This agreement will not only protect and conserve the watershed but also allow us to voice our concerns to ensure the protection of the tributary rivers,” Tawantawan said.
National Irrigation Administration (NIA)-10 Regional Manager Engr. Larry Franada, in a written statement, highlighted the crucial role watersheds play in environmental health, economic prosperity, and community well-being.
He noted the threats of deforestation, pollution, and climate change, emphasizing that the watershed council represents a collective commitment to addressing these challenges.
Franada added that the council will facilitate coordinated actions, knowledge sharing, and resource pooling among stakeholders to ensure the sustainability and resilience of these critical natural resources.
“Let this be a moment to celebrate our shared goal to protect, preserve, and nurture the Maranding Watershed for generations to come,” Adornado concluded, encouraging continued collaboration for a sustainable environment. (JAKA/PIA-10)
