1ST QUARTER NEWSLETTER 2022

Official Newsletter Volume XIX No. 1; January - March 2022

Secretary Cimatu bats for a mobilized citizenry for the
environment

Secretary Cimatu confers with PASu Merly Barte on the water quality of Lake Danao in Ormoc City. Lake Danao Natural
Park (LDNP) is one of the legislated protected area in the region.

“It is my challenge to all officials Waste Management Act, among others.
and employees of the DENR to put to “We have made headways in the
heart the mission of the Department in
involving the citizenry in the performance implementation of our priority programs
of our mandate of protecting, conserving, like that of the Boracay and Manila Bay

and managing the environment and our Rehabilitation which have been
natural resources,” says Secretary Roy A. replicated in the different regions.
Cimatu of the Department of Environment The key to that has always been our
and Natural Resources (DENR). aggressive collaboration with other

He issued the challenge during his sectors and stakeholders, both in the
recent visit to offices of DENR Region VIII public and private. We have to sustain
where he had the chance to have an interface this momentum, ” added Secretary
meeting with officials and employees of the Cimatu.
Department in the region. Secretary Cimatu, together with
He emphasized that there are Asec. Arleigh Adorable, Assistant (Top Photo) RED Tirso Parian, Jr. welcome Secretary
laws in place that will serve as templates Secretary for Field Operations-Visayas Cimatu at the airport. (Center and Bottom Photo)
in the implementation of the Department’s and his entourage, visited the DENR Secretary Cimatu along with ASec. Alreigh Adorable
mandate such as the Clean Air Act, Water Regional Office, PENRO-Leyte, and visited PENRO Leyte Office.
Code of the Philippines, Ecological Solid CENRO-Ormoc.

INSIDE PaDgeENNRumVbIeIIrdonates WAIID: Women Forest Bathing: A
THIS ISSUE Making a Difference Nature Immersion
confiscated
lumber to Typhoon through BDFE Activity
Page 06 Page 09
Odette victims
Page 03

@DENR8Official Website: r8.denr.gov.ph

02 Tacloban City January - March 2022

Regional Executive Director’s Corner

challenge and stayed on course to all DENR employees in Eastern

deliver its services while remaining Visayas so that we can continue

vigilant. Hallmark of employees to make a positive impact on the

is imbued with our Department’s core environment and on the people

values of Discipline, Excellence, who depend on it.

Nobility, and Responsibility. The challenge is for us to

And for my part, this also serves continue to look after each other,

as a new beginning as I take over the as one family. It is our capacity

helm of DENR-Region VIII as its to respect the dignity of every

OIC-Regional Executive Director. Much individual in the organization that

has been done by my predecessor in will make us better public servants.

ensuring that the priority programs are I also look forward to

implemented efficiently and effectively, greater cooperation not only from
such that we have been responsive within the Department in the
to our mandate of protecting and region but more so with the
conservingourenvironmentanditsnatural different partner agencies,
resources, while addressing also the institutions, and organizations,
socio-economic needs of our both from the public and private
Arturo E. Fadriquela sectors. After all, we should
stakeholders.
This year marks another It is now my fervent desire that remain true to our mission, that
beginning as we start to usher in is, “to mobilize our citizenry in
the “new normal”, after almost under my watch, we will continue to protecting, conserving, and
two (2) years full of uncertainties, ignite that flame of public service managing the environment and
anxieties, and challenges as we try in each one. Fueled by our previous natural resources for the present
to cope and adjust to the threat of the successes and even lessons from failures, and future generation.”
COVID-19 pandemic. It was no easy together as a team, we shall endeavor Together, we shall, because
feat. However, records would show to better ourselves. I only ask for the we can. Ikaw, Ako, Tayo ang
that DENR Region VIII took up the wholehearted support and cooperation of Kalikasan. ###

DENR holds blood-letting in celebration
of National Women’s Month

In connection with the Before the bloodletting started, a
celebration of National Women’s short information regarding the advocacy
Month, the Department of on voluntary blood donation was given
Environment and Natural Resources by Mr. Nigel Boco, the Regional
(DENR) Region VIII conducted Donor Recruitment Officer of EVMC.
a Bloodletting activity for its Thirteen (13) DENR personnel
employees. from which 6 were women successfully
The said activity was in donated after qualifying and passing
coordination with the Regional physical and blood screening tests.
Donor Recruitment Office of Eastern As the DENR agency recognizes
Visayas Medical Center (EVMC) and women's role in nation building, it also
was participated by around twenty continuous to engage in partnership with
five (25) employees from different civil society that promotes humanitarian
sections and offices of DENR Region response and volunteerism such as
VIII. blood donation which saves and extends
lives.
DENR personnel volunteers to donate blood.

January - March 2022 Tacloban City 03

DENR VIII donates confiscated lumber to ENR

Typhoon Odette victims

10 Mind-Blowing Facts About
Garbage

The climate crisis has given us all a renewed
appreciation for our planet’s oceans and the marine
life that lives beneath the water’s surface, as well as
ocean conservation projects led by initiatives of some
groups and individuals.

These 10 unbelievable ocean facts illustrate
just how important these initiatives are.

DENR 8 donates confiscated lumber to barangays and municipalities in Southern 1. Our oceans cover more than 70 per cent of the
Leyte affected by the onslaught of Typhoon Odette. Earth’s surface.
2. The majority of life on Earth is aquatic.
A total of six hunded forty five Brigade with 111 pieces of lumber 3. Less than five percent of the planet’s oceans have
(645) pieces of lumber of assorted equivalent to 800 bd. ft. These been explored.
dimensions with a total volume of recipients were identified by the 4. The world’s longest mountain chain is underwater.
9,435.33 board feet (bd.ft.) equivalent Provincial Environmental and Natural 5. There are more historic artefacts under the sea than in
to an estimated value of Five Hundred Resources Office (PENRO) in all of the world’s museums.
Thousand Pesos (Php500,000.00) was Southern Leyte as the most-affected in 6. We still only know a fraction of the marine species in
donated by the Department of close coordination with the provincial our oceans.
Environment and Natural Resources government. 7. Over 70 per cent of our planet’s oxygen is produced
(DENR) Region VIII to Typhoon The donated lumbers were by the ocean.
Odetter-stricken municipalities in the sourced from the confiscated 8. It’s possible to find rivers and lakes beneath the
Province of Southern Leyte. undocumented forest products within ocean.
This is according to the Officer- Samar Island which comprises the 9. Around 50 per cent of the US lies beneath the ocean.
in-charge of the Enforcement Division of provinces of Samar, Eastern Samar and 10. The Pacific Ocean is the world’s largest ocean and
DENR 8, Forester Glenn B. Garciano. Northern Samar. contains around 25,000 islands.
“The donation is in support to “We are glad that the fruit of our
the efforts of the Office of Civil Defense intensified forest protection and law https://www.conserve-energy-future.com/environment-facts.php
(OCD) in the Region to rehabilitate or enforcement efforts in the region will
reconstruct the houses and other help typhoon victims in Southern Leyte Source:https://www.trafalgar.com/real-
structures damaged during the onslaught rebuild their houses and structures ----------z--word/10-unbelievable-facts-ocean/
of Typhoon Odette,” says Garciano. which were damaged by Typhoon
The recipient barangays and Odette last December, “ says DENR Earth Hour 2022: 7 things to
municipalities in Southern Leyte who VIII Regional Executive Director, do in the dark
received the donated lumbers in Tirso P. Parian, Jr.
pieces with the corresponding volume Aside from lumbers, DENR Switching off the lights for Earth Hour 2022
were: Brgy. Son-ok II, Municipality VIII also donated relief goods, used means showing your commitment to the plan-
of Pintuyan with 159 pieces of lumber clothing and financial assistance to et—and switching on the fun at home.
all DENR employees affected in the
equivalent to 2,017.67 bd. ft.; Brgy. province. Every action we take impacts life around
Candayuman, Municipality of Liloan us and even small actions at home can help the
planet at large. And for many, turning off the
with a total of 159 pieces equivalent lights also means turning up the fun in new and
to 2,576 bd. ft. and Municipality of interesting ways, consider the lights-out hour as
Limasawa with 216 pieces equivalent to an opportunity to enjoy quality time with family
4,040.67 bd. ft. Also identified as lumber and friends and celebrate your role in this global
recipient from the DENR was the 801st movement.

Here are a few ideas for fun things you can
do during Earth Hour:

1. Work up a sweat. Raise your heart rate with
a candlelight session of your favorite workout.
2. Take a hike.
3. Take in the sights. Spot the landmarks around
you that are participating in Earth Hour.
4. Create your masterpiece. Make art in the dark.
5. Host a dinner party for family and friends.
6. Look at the stars.
7. Make a resolution. Commit to reducing your
carbon footprint.

Source: https://www.worldwildlife.org/stories/
earth-hour-2019-7-things-to-do-in-the-dark

04 Tacloban City January - March 2022

PENRO Northern Samar inks agreement with
beneficiaries for the establishment of a 220-
hectare eNGP plantation

Top Photo (L-R) Chief of CENRO Pambujan’s Conservation and Development Section
Forester Dennis Ariño, Northern Samar PENR Officer Joselito Eco, and CENRO Pambujan
CENR Officer Edgardo Alegre sign the Letter of Agreement with family beneficiaries (right
photos) of the Enhanced National Greening Program (ENGP).

The Provincial Environment and a 3-year contract,
Natural Resources Office (PENRO) of identified family
Northern Samar through its Community beneficiaries in Brgy.
Environment and Natural Resources Ginagdanan are
Office(CENRO)inPambujanrecentlyinked expected to plant

Letters of Agreement (LOA) with thirty one indigenous tree species in a 70- states that fifteen percent (15%) of their
(31) families from barangays Ginagdanan hectare area under a contract price of total mobilization fee shall be released as
and Pagsang-an, San Roque, Northern P1,820,000.00. Meanwhile, family soon as the LOA is notarized. Succeeding
Samar for the establishment of some two beneficiaries in Brgy. Pagsang-an are payments will be released corresponding to
hundred twenty (220) hectares Enhanced expected to plant indigenous tree species the contracted families’ performance and
National Greening Program (ENGP) in a 150-hectare area under a contract their plantation’s survival rate of at least
plantation. states that under 85%.
price of P3,900,000.00.
The LOA Report from CENRO Pambujan PENRO Northern Samar... 12

New DENR Regional Executive Director
assumes post

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in

Region VIII has a new OIC-Regional Executive Director in the person of Forester

Arturo E. Fadriquela, formerly the Assistant Regional Director for Management

Services of DENR Region III.

In a turn-over ceremony and acceptance of leadership responsibilities,

DENR VIII Regional Executive Director Tirso P. Parian, Jr., formally

relinquished his authority to RED Fadriquela. He will then assume

the post of Bureau Director of the Forest Management Bureau (FMB).

The momentous occasion was graced by the presence of ASec. Joan A.

Lagunda, Assistant Secretary for Field Operations-Visayas and Legislative Affairs.

In her message, she asked the men and women of DENR in Eastern

Visayas to support the leadership of Director Fadriquela in the manner that they

supported Director Parian during his stint in the region. In doing so, ASec. Lagunda

is confident that we shall attain a One Command, One Visayas that will redound to Outgoing DENR VIII Regional Executive Director Tirso P. Parian, Jr (L)
the benefit of the nation and of the environment. hands-over the DENR flag to incoming Regional Executive Director Arturo
Likewise, she enjoined everyone to be true to their calling as a public E. Fadriquela (R) to symbolize the turn-over and acceptance of leadership
servant by serving the people passionately and with integrity. responsibilities. The Assistant Secretary for Field Operations – Visayas and
Legislative Affairs Joan A. Lagunda (center) officiates the turn-over ceremony.

January - March 2022 Tacloban City 05

Newly appointed and promoted
DENR VIII employees take their oath

DENR reminds

public not to post

campaign

materials on trees

Following the kick-off of
the campaign period for national
posts in the 2022 Election, the
Department of Environment and
Natural Resources (DENR) in
Eastern Visayas reiterates its
Director Parian (L) administers the oath-taking of newly appointed and promoted employees. reminders for the public to refrain

“I have been true to my word since of office. They assured the from posting campaign materials
the time I assumed office to emphasize the DENR family that they will make such as posters and streamers on
well-being of employees of the Department. themselves worthy of the trust trees.
Under my watch, we filled up numerous reposed on them by putting to “The candidates and their
vacant positions while ensuring that the heart the DENR core values of supporters should be mindful of
integrity and quality of the selection process Discipline, Excellence, Nobility, and the laws and policies regarding the
are maintained,” says Tirso P. Parian, Jr., Responsibility. prohibition of posting of election
former Regional Executive Director of the Aside from those materials on trees,” DENR
Department of Environment and Natural appointments vested with the Regional Executive Director Tirso
Resources (DENR) in Region 8. Regional Executive Director (RED), P. Parian, Jr., said.
Director Parian made the statement other promotions were processed and He explained that R.A.
during the oath-taking of twenty-two (22) issued by the Central Office. No.3571 prohibits the cutting,
newly appointed and promoted employees For the regional office, Ms. destroying or injuring of planted
of the Department in the region. Since he Maita Reina G. Sucgang is now or growing trees, flowering plants
assumed as Regional Executive Director the Chief of the Administrative and shrubs or plants of scenic value
in December 2019, there were six (6) oath- Division. Likewise, Forester along public roads, in plazas, parks,
takings with a total of one hundred eighty Angelito B. Villanueva, Forester school premises or in any other
Joselito L. Eco and Forester Lea O. public pleasure ground.
two (182) vacant positions filled up.
For his part, Director Arturo N. Torres are now full-fledged PENR He likewise stated that
Salazar, Assistant Regional Director for Officers of PENRO Samar, PENRO Section 3 of P.D. 953 punishes
Management Services extended his profound Northern Samar, and PENRO Eastern violators with imprisonment of six
appreciation to the hard-working members Samar, respectively. (6) months to two (2) years, or a
of the Human Resource Merit Promotion Promoted as full-fledged fine of not less than five hundred
and Selection Board (HMRSPB). “This CENR Officers are Forester pesos (P500.00) and not more than
was all made possible because the men and Paquito P. Dabuet, Forester Edgardo five thousand pesos (P5,000.00), or
women composing our HMRSPB are true O. Alegre, and Forester Flordeliza with both imprisonment and fine at
professionals and are passionate about their Dela Cruz of CENRO Catarman, the discretion of the court.
job. They did a commendable job,” he said. CENRO Pambujan, and CENRO DENR reminds public... 12
The newly appointed and promoted Dolores, respectively.

employees committed to be true to their oath

06 Tacloban City January - March 2022

Feature Story:

WAIID: Women Making a Difference through BDFE

As the Department of Creation of Microfinance Services

Environment and Natural Resources In 2015, a powerful typhoon
(DENR) continues to develop policies
that protect and conserve the environment Nona struck the Philippines. It crossed
and natural resources, it also innovates over the northern coast of Samar leaving

different approaches that benefit, secures most areas including San Isidro

and sustains its citizenry with its country’s Island mostly devastated. The locals
biodiversity.
sadly lost their houses and their
Since the development of possessions. They too experienced
Biodiversity - Friendly Enterprises
(BDFE), one of the program components hunger. The typhoon destroyed the lush
of the Coastal and Marine Ecosystems and green mangroves while protecting
Management Program (CMEMP) stated the people from its massive wrath.
in DENR Administrative Order (DAO) To recover from the

2018-22, DENR Eastern Visayas has been devastation and with determination
helping small groups and associations to help their community ease the way

in different communities that are engaged they live in all aspects, fourteen (14) Entrance to Brgy. San Isidro in Lavazares,
in environment-friendly livelihood and women drafted a localized savings Nothern Samar

income-generating projects. One of scheme following a microfinance
these People’s Organizations (POs) is the format and designed to generate funds assistance according to Africano.
Women’s Association for Inter-Island From three hundred sixty
Development or WAIID from the small for educational assistance of the pesos (P360) as the group’s initial savings
island of San Isidro in Lavezares, members’ children. in 2016, the group already collected one
Northern Samar. And so, in April 2016, WAIID hundred eighty thousand pesos (P180,000)
A decade ago, San Isidro can be was created to make a difference in before the pandemic started. The amount
best described as the most deprived island their community. The poverty being
in Lavezares, Northern Samar aside from experienced by the locals inspired them continued to grow as they opened the
to take this chance and start the change. microfinance to the neighboring islands
being a disaster-prone area. They don’t want their children who are interested to avail their financial

The locals were mostly
uneducated and most women were to experience the hardship they went services.
engaged in vices resulting from poverty through. “I believe if we won’t be The fourteen (14) members
and unemployment. They believed that before became sixty (60) at present.
they can’t work outside the island because educating our children, the poverty Not only that, they also opened the
they are less educated than the rest. of the families here on the island will organization to other interested individuals
“Living on the island is simply continue up to the next generations.” without membership fees.
hard and most of the women were Africano says.

dependent on the livelihood of their At present, WAIID’s Engagement with BDFE practices
husband which is fishing. When it’s rainy
microfinance has already supported a lot

and windy, we hardly feed our children. of the island members’ college students DENR Region 8 reached out
We don’t have the financial capacity to fulfilling its purpose for educational to WAIID a year after the women’s
provide for them consistently with their
association started to operate with
needs,” Marry Jane S. Africano, President

of WAIID states.

People have been content with

how they live their life and had no dreams

for their children before. Though few

families reside on the island, the lack

of resources and skills to meet the daily

needs of their families often ends up

in abusing the lush mangroves and the

biodiversity that surrounds the island.

Swimming Area. Board walk, Cottage.
one of the cottages

January - March 2022 Tacloban City 07

microfinance. Its intention was to keep tabs Israel Africano, business manager of
on the island’s natural resources like the WAIID showcases the mud crab ready for
mangrove forest ecosystem and the waste harvesting.
management practices of the locals.
Anent to this, the DENR offered the
BDFE project allowing them to maximize the
use of natural resources available in the area.
This however, comes with a stern reminder
for the group to protect the environment and
natural resources of the island.
Per DENR Administrative Order
(DAO) 2018-22, WAIID’s engagement in
economic activities should be sustainable
and the protection of the environment and the
natural resources should come first-hand.

Engagement in Environment Protection Mudcrab Fattening

and Preservation Strategically, DENR saw the

To ensure the conservation and island as a feasible and suitable place

sustainable use of natural resources, DENR for mud crab culture or fattening.

strictly monitors illegal activities on the island so the DENR through PENRO Northern Thus, the agency released the
while BDFEs are ongoing. Samar partnered with other local agencies remaining financial assistance of
“This Biodiversity-Friendly Enterprise for the enhancement of the skills of the WAIID per contract amounting to
program of DENR provides alternative WAIID members. TESDA readily lent a P431,100.00 on October 21,2019.
livelihood and tries to correct the malpractices hand by giving them a series of training to They introduced and equipped WAIID
of the locals towards the environment and be able to operate, manage and sustain their members with skills from training and
natural resources,” states Peter B. Destura, the enterprise. expanded their enterprise to mud crab
Coastal Extension Officer of Protected Area “We learned (technical) skills and fattening to increase their generated
Management Office (PAMO) of Biri LaRoSa. were also introduced to other management income.
With DENR’s intervention, WAIID has learned and operational skills and earned National Despite the mud crab culture
to responsibly maximize the use of natural Competency II for dressmaking,” Africano requiring knowledge, patience, and
resources in the island as raw materials in added. a lot of hard work, WAIID pursued
different economic ventures. The people’s organization received its second venture. Undauntedly,
WAIID has also started doing monthly the partial of BDFE’s grant amounting to the all-female people’s organization
clean-up drives to get rid of plastic wastes P106,2067.50 on July 19,2018 to purchase involved their husbands in the
dangling on the mangroves. four (4) sewing machines. This became enterprise whenever the women
Having learned the importance of their first venture under BDFE. needed assistance.
mangroves through IECs conducted by the Members who sew get paid when “Our husbands have been
DENR, WAIID initiated mangrove tree they sell the finished product. Ten (10) very supportive in our mudcrab
planting activities and stopped cutting the percent of the amount received goes to the fattening livelihood seeing how our
woods for household use. PO funds and ninety percent (90%) goes to first engagement with BDFE activities
Presently, they also produce the the sewer. helped our families financially. They
propagules used for their tree planting A sewer can earn up to Two go to the pens when we ask them to
activities as their engagement to protect their Hundred pesos (P200) per day de- help us, especially when there are
environment. pending on her productivity. Prices issues that arise in the evening”
Illegal fishing practices also ceased for the children’s dress can cost above One Africano says.
as they became warriors and protectors of the Hundred Eighty pesos (P180) while a pair Mud crab culture or fattening
environment. of school uniforms can cost One Hundred is a five to six-month endeavor for
Every PO member joins in the cause and Fifty (P150) pesos. WAIID from sorting crabs, stocking
for the environment by bringing along his/ “We are thankful for the DENR and feeding before selectively
her spouse and children to engage in their staff who tirelessly encouraged, taught and harvesting them with the ideal weight.
environmental activities. The group has helped us find ways to earn more than what With this enterprise, they gain an
embodied discipline and support among its we have before. Now that we are skilled income that is good for 6 months.
members and their families because they have because of the training.” Africano added. The members also strategized
seen their lives slowly changing by this good WAIID’s final products are the marketing depending on the
act to nature. curtains, dresses, school uniforms, pillow demand of the mudcrab. “From
covers, potholders and rags and they December to February the mudcrab
Sewing Machine as WAIID’s First Venture
continue to produce and trade them based

The PO WAIID recognized the need on the demands of their clients from their WAIID: Women Making... 8
to be capacitated with technical skills, and island and neighboring town.

08 Tacloban City January - March 2022

WAIID: Women Making ...6 Typhoon Nona in 2015 was the WAIID is evidence that women can
also do great things, make a difference and
provoking challenge that made WAIID change in nurturing the deteriorated nature
price is high thus we sell them most at this far. Another typhoon, Tisoy hit thus playing an important role in nation
this season but its price varies as well the island in the last quarter of 2019, building.
according to the mudcrab size.” Israel flooded and destroyed their sewing ma- They believe that the trust and
Africano, WAIID Business Manager, says. chines which they mainly use in their respect to self, to the locals, to the people
The association has seen the who helped them and to the environment are
enterprise. the keys to the success of WAIID and they
importance of the mangrove ecosystem could only further their dream for the island
Then, the PO’s first attempt at and for their children.
in their mudcrab culture so they help in crab fattening was a failure due to the “The WAIID members learned how
informing the other locals to stop the unstrategic location of the crab pens to make a living, changed the bad habits and
cutting of mangrove trees. we wish to do more. Our next goal is to have
with the issue of not getting enough our own building and production area where
we can grow our association, develop our
Ecotourism brackish water that’s suitable for the existing ventures and help other people,”
culture. Africano added.
Through BDFE, WAIID members
While engaging in mud crab As one organization united believe that poverty is somehow reduced
fattening and sewing, WAIID slowly with goals, WAIID has overcome every in San Isidro. Also, women and families in
rehabilitated the mangrove forest and challenge with the help of various the island were empowered not only in their
natural resources on the island with the partners and supporting agencies like living condition but also in taking actions for
DENR and bounced back stronger and protecting and conserving the environment
support of their local leaders. Their wastes better in their ways. and making it a livable place for future
and plastics were properly segregated, generations.
DENR continues to help and teach
restoring the pristine beauty of the island, Progress and Aspiration these people and POs to preserve nature
making the island one of the recognized hoping that the message and call for the
environment will also be heard and realized
ecotourism destinations in Northern Samar. As per PAMO, WAIID is one of in other communities as well.
“With the assistance of Protected the six thriving POs in Northern Samar
Area Management Board (PAMB), that helps DENR do its mandate while
Provincial Tourism Office, and the benefiting from the grants of BDFEs.
Lalaguna Mangrove Eco Park It has achieved the recognition to be
operated and managed by WAIID, the seen and heard not only by DENR and
Lalaguna Boardwalk was created,” Destura other government agencies in making a
added.
difference as they pursued the various
WAIID has expanded its reach enterprises they ventured into.
from offering products like clothing

and mudcrabs to souvenir items such as

handicrafts made of seashells and sanito

baskets in which raw materials are present

in the island. They made the island visitors

the target market for their products and pro-

motion.

The Lalaguna Mangrove Eco Park

is also a fish sanctuary where fishing is

restricted in a specific place and time. The

presence of small fishes and seagrass beds

makes it more appealing to the people to

connect with nature as they dive in to the

sea.

Soon as the local government units

lifts pandemic restrictions, the Lalaguna

Mangrove Eco Park will be reopened to

the public including its services which are

Onayan mangrove tour (boating), kayak

mangrove tour, Kaluy-ahan Mountain trail

tour and swimming and snorkeling and

food services.

Overcoming Challenges Souvernirs items and services
offered by WAIID members.
From the beginning, WAIID
faced countless challenges but continued
to beat them with their determination and
persistence.

January - March 2022 Tacloban City 09

eDFmEoNrpeRlosbtyiBedaestsh“Sinagla: mA aNtaMtuarebuImhamye”rtsoiornetAiricntgivity
Environment and Natural

Resources (ENR) Ambassadors from

the Department of Environment and

Natural Resources (DENR) in Eastern

Visayas, joined the observance of the

International Day of Forests (IDF)

through nature immersion activity

dubbed as “Forest Bathing”.

Within the thickly forested area

of Mahagnao Volcano Natural Park

(MVNP) in Burauen, Leyte, one of the

seven protected areas in the region,

the ENR Ambassadors experienced

first-hand the relaxing ambiance and

the energizing effect of connecting with

nature.

The assistance of highly-trained

guides from the Mahagnao Volcano

Natural Park Ecotourism Association

(MVNPEA), gave the ENR

Ambassadors a chance to experience

“forest bathing” using their five (5)

senses. Likewise, they were introduced

to different species of flora and their

respective uses by the knowledgeable

guides of the MVNPEA.

The International Day of

Forests for 2022 is marked with the

theme, “Forests and Sustainable

Production and Consumption.”

Provincial News

Barangay officials of Sabang,
Naval Biliran join PENRO Biliran and
DENR regional office personnel in a
mangrove planting activity conducted
along the coastline of Brgy. Sabang to
mark the celebration of World Wetlands
Day.
The volunteers who planted
around one hundred (100) seedlings of
miyapi committed to take responsibility
over the planted mangroves and pledged
full support to efforts geared towards
ensuring the mangroves' growth and
survival.

In photos: Participants plant miyapi seedlings during
the celebration of World Wetlands Day 2022.

10 Tacloban City January - March 2022

DENR employees affected by ST Yolanda

receive financial aid from the government

DENR VIII employees stricken by Super
Typhoon Yolanda in 2013 receive their financial
aid from the Office of the President. A total of 164
beneficiaries whose houses were totally damaged
received P100,000.00 and 594 beneficiaries with
partially damaged houses received P30,000.00.
Ms. Thelma C. Calibo, Engineering Aide,
is one of the DENR employees who expressed
gratitude for the Typhoon Yolanda financial aid.
“Finally, I have in my hands this longed-for
financial aid. I will use this money to pay for my
loans during the reconstruction of our house that
was totally damaged by Yolanda,” she said.
On March 21, 2022, Acting Secretary Jim
O. Sampulna handed over the check amounting
to P34.2 million to former DENR VIII Regional
Executive Director Tirso P. Parian, Jr. and
Finance Division Chief and EVDENREU
President Sonia Mejido for DENR VIII
employees affected by Typhoon Yolanda.
Acting Secretary Sampulna lauded
the tireless efforts of DENR field officials in
securing the financial help. He said, the check
speaks of DENR’s valued commitment to push
tirelessly for the welfare and benefits of its
hardworking workforce however long and
challenging the waiting has been.
DENR VIII Assistant Regional Director
for Management Services Arturo N. Salazar led
the distribution of the financial aid to Typhoon
Yolanda-stricken DENR employees. Those who
are no longer working at the DENR also received
the financial aid, including those deceased,
through their family.

Acting Secretary Jim O. Sampulna hands over the check amounting to
P34.2 million to former DENR VIII Regional Executive Director Tirso P.
Parian, Jr. and Finance Division Chief and EVDENREU President Sonia
Mejido for DENR VIII employees affected by Typhoon Yolanda

January - March 2022 Tacloban City 11

DENR conducts Asian Waterbird Census

DENR calls for unity of action

(Left Photo) Migratory waterbirds spotted in ownaeteorfbtihred.m(RigairgahsttowPryheobtiorcd) AesintleeEsgbirnertaEaatAsetlebransVpiescaiyeaosf.
(Center Photo) An Egretta Garzetta specie of

waterbird.

The Department of Environment the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands. this year’s census. This may be due to

and Natural Resources (DENR) Regional In the region, the waterbird the damages caused by Typhoon Odette
Office VIII conducted the Annual Waterbird census was held in seven migratory bird sites to our mangrove areas,” says Ms.
Census (AWC) to monitor the distribution – Lake Bito Inland Wetlands, Carigara Bay Lantajo.
and population of waterbirds and the status Wetlands, Tres Marias Islands, Ormoc Bay Nonetheless, DENR Regional
Wetlands, Southern Leyte Bird Sanctuary, Executive Director Tirso P. Parian,
of wetlands in the region.
According to Ms. Ingelina Maqueda Bay Wetlands, and Guiuan Jr., stressed that the presence of
migratory waterbirds in the region’s
Lantajo, Development Management Officer Interidal Flats.
Ms. Lantajo noted that in this wetlands despite the damages caused
and DENR-8 Focal Person for Asian
Waterbird Census, the Asian Waterbird recently conducted waterbird census, a by the typhoon is an indication that
Census is conducted in January of each notable decrease in population was observed. our wetland ecosystem is still healthy.
year to identify and monitor sites that are There were a total of 2,091 waterbirds “Collective efforts between the

important for waterbirds. This activity counted for this year compared to last year’s DENR and the community is essential in

also intends to identify sites that qualify as 4,026. “Compared to the 2021 waterbird DENR conducts Asian... 12
Wetlands of International Importance under census, a decline of 48.06% was noted in

PENRO Biliran releases reticulated python
back to the wild

A female reticulated python measuring Reticulated python measuring 3.35 meters
3.35 meters in length and weighing approximately 15 long and found to be female, turned over to the
kilograms was released back into the forested area of PBWRC by SINP Zardoz V. Abella.
Barangay Villaconsuelo, Naval Biliran by personnel
of the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Released of Reticulated
Office Biliran. python at Villa Consuelo,
Acting Fire Marshal of Naval Fire Station, Naval, Biliran on January
SINSP Zardos V. Abel turned over the snake which 17, 2022 which was turned
they found lurking within their vicinity. over by BFP personnel to
Under Department Administrative Order the PBWRC on Janaury
(DAO) 2019-09 otherwise known as “Updated 14, 2022.
National List of Threatened Philippine Fauna and
their categories”, the Reticulated python is classified
as other threatened species which is under threat from
adverse factors such as over collection throughout
its range and is likely to be moved to the vulnerable
category in the near future.
The DENR VIII calls on the public to
immediately report or turn over captured or rescued
wildlife to the nearest DENR office for proper caring
and release to its natural habitat.

12 Tacloban City January - March 2022

DENR conducts Asian...11 PENRO Northern Samar...4 DENR reminds public...5

protecting the region’s migratory bird sites PENRO Northern Samar identified RED Parian added that
in order to increase our waterbird count in the municipality of San Roque as a priority the Commission on Elections
the years ahead” says RED Parian. “Aside area for this year’s implementation of the (COMELEC), through R.A. 9006
from protecting our wetlands, I also enjoin Enhanced National Greening Program in or the Fair Election Act may
the community to avoid killing, hunting, and support of the conservation and protection authorize political parties to erect
inflicting harm to these migratory birds. They efforts for the Bantayan Watershed which is common poster areas for their
just stop by our healthy wetlands for food and located in the area. candidates in public places but in
shelter,” he adds. The ‘family approach’ is engaging no instance shall it designate as
The Asian Waterbird Census was upland and rural families in the poster areas any trees, plants or
initiated in 1987 in the Indian subcontinent implementation of the eNGP to contribute shrubs along public roads.
and has grown rapidly to cover 26 countries in to the government’s objective in providing “With the various
South Asia, Southeast Asia, East Asia, Pacific additional income to families affected by ecological and health benefits that
and Russia Far East. the pandemic. the trees provide, let us help each
other in conserving and sparing
DENR EMB conducts training on recycling our trees from any untoward
techniques acts against it. Cutting or injuring
trees by posting or nailing
The Environmental Management election materials are violations
Bureau and the DENR Regional Office 8 sanctioned by our laws not only
marked this year's celebration of Zero Waste this election period but in daily
Month through Training on Simple Recycling basis, “concludes RED Parian.
Technique. The activity was held to encourage
individuals and communities to reduce waste DENR Region VIII
by reusing materials that will otherwise be
thrown as trash. EDITORIAL STAFF

Augustus Ceasar V. Lantajo Mae Joy V. Vero
Circulation Manager/Photographer Researchers

Johann Hein B. Arpon Hedy M. Yao
Bonavie M. Robinio Lay-out Artist

Joy P. Tagget
Writers

Rowena C. Opiniano
Editor-in-Chief

Women residents of Townville, Quinapundan Eastern Samar, barangay TECHNICAL ADVISERS
officials of Barobaybay, Calbiga, Samar and members of BEYouth Arturo N. Salazar
Organization in Calbiga, Samar trying their hands at recycling.
ARD for Management Services
Release of wildlife species marks WWD
celebration Atty. Dario O Suarez
OIC- ARD for Technical Services

Arturo E. Fadriquela
OIC- Regional Executive Director

CONTRIBUTORS
PENROs/CENROs
Division Chiefs
DENR Employees

For World Wildlife Day (WWD) species under DAO 2019-09 - the Updated Contact Information
2022, the Department of Environment and National List of Threatened Fauna and their
Natural Resources in Region 8 has released Categories. Office of the Regional Executive Director : (053) 832 - 0825

Office of the Assistant Regional Executive

different species of wildlife back to their “This is a reminder and a challenge Director for Management Services : (053) 832 - 1887

natural habitat. for everyone to take an active role in Office of the Assistant Regional Executive

Director for Technical Services : (053) 832 - 0827

These species were previously turned- preserving and protecting our wildlife Administrative Division : (053) 832 - 0655

over to the Department by concerned citizens together with ensuring their natural habitat Finance Division : (053) 832 - 0822

Planning and Management Divison : (053) 832 - 0027

and after assessing their fitness to survive on if we are to sustain a healthy and balanced Legal Division : (053) 832 - 0862

their own, they were released in the forested ecosystem”, Tirso P. Parian, Jr., Regional Survey and Mapping Division : (053) 832 - 0863

Enforcement Division : (053) 832 - 2196

area of Paranas, Samar that belongs to the Executive Director of DENR-RO8 says. Licenses, Patents and Deeds Division : (053) 832 - 0630

Conservation and Development Division : (053) 832 - 0032

legislated protected area of Samar Island Kalikasan is an internal publication produced quarterly
Natural Park (SINP). by the Regional Strategic Communication and
Released were a pair critically Initatives Group, Department of Environment and
endangered parakeets (Loriculus philippensis) Natural Resources, Region 8, with office at Sto. Niño
locally known as colasisi, a pair of critically Extension, Tacloban City. Contributions are welcome.
endangered Samar hornbill (Penelopides However, the editorial staff reserves the right to edit all
panini samarensis) locally known as kalaw; articles contributed for publication. Reprint is allowed
and a Brahminy kite (Haliastur indus) locally
as long as credit is given.

known as banog listed as other wildlife @DENR8Official Website: r8.denr.gov.ph