By Patricia T. Bermudez October 2, 2020 CALAMBA CITY, Laguna – The Department of Environment and Natural Resources- Region 4A (DENR-4A) high...
October 2, 2020
CALAMBA CITY, Laguna – The Department of Environment and Natural Resources- Region 4A (DENR-4A) highlighted its various initiatives during the pilot episode of its official radio program, ‘Talakayan sa Kalikasan’.
Special guest DENR-4A Regional Executive Director Nonito Tamayo discussed the agency’s ten priority programs, including their pandemic response and participation in the Manila Bay Rehabilitation Program.
Wildlife conservation
The DENR-4A is continuing its efforts in preserving wildlife in the region amid the pandemic.
After conducting the Asian Waterbird Census last January 7 to 24, Tamayo said they recorded a total of 13,742 migratory birds, which include endangered species such as the Philippine Duck, Black-belled Tern, and White-shouldered Ibis.
They also assessed the mangroves in Noveleta, Cavite, where a science-based mangrove will be built in partnership with the Forest Foundation Philippines and the Zoological Society of London.
Anti-Illegal logging
The regional environment and natural resource office will continue its crackdown on illegal loggers under the Intensified Forest Protection and Anti-illegal Logging Program.
Through its field offices, the DENR-4A strictly monitors the lumber trade in the region, and closely coordinating with deputized law enforcement agencies to monitor illegal activities in forests.
Manila bay rehabilitation project
Tamayo assured that they are committed to the implementation of the Manila Bay Rehabilitation Program amid the pandemic.
But due to the social distancing order of the national government, the regional office said only a limited number of river rangers can be hired to watch over Manila Bay.
However, DENR regional chief added that they will continuously provide complete personal protective equipment (PPE), alcohol, and vitamins to protect the river rangers from possible infections.
“By October this year, we are looking forward to officially launching the Calabarzon Sanitasyon at Basura Watch (CASABWATCH) program, which focuses on the strict implementation of the anti-littering and anti-illegal dumping ordinances,” he assured.
COVID-19 pandemic response
DENR-4A officials and staff also organized an initiative to provide PPEs, hygiene and sanitation kits, and food packs to some hospitals in the region.
Provincial offices also launched their own initiatives to promote food security through backyard and office vegetable gardening. Several health programs were also initiated to promote holistic health among employees amid the pandemic.
Launched last September 25 at DZJV 1458 Radyo Calabarzon, ‘Talakayan sa Kalikasan’ aims to inform the public of the various environmental issues in the region. (PTB with reports from DENR 4A)
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