SECOND QUARTER NEWSLETTER CY 2022

Department of Environment and Natural Resources Region VIII

Official Newsletter Volume XIX No. 2; April - June 2022

Volunteers take their oath as
deputized ENR officers

Some twenty-nine (29) individuals from apprehension receipts, seizure order and rules, and regulations.
Baybay City, Leyte took their oath as notices of administrative hearing including Their deputation order further
Deputized Environment and Natural the proceedings necessary for the conduct
Resources Officers (DENROs). of the administrative adjudication of provides that they may act as witness in
illegally procured, transported, court for the speedy prosecution of criminal
By virtue of DENR Regional Special owned/possessed and utilized forest complaints against violators.
Order No. 2022-56 issued in March 2022, products.
the DENROs are authorized to assist in the As deputized ENR officers, they may The DENROs are authorized to
enforcement of laws, rules, and regulations arrest, even without warrant, any person exercise their functions within the city of
governing the environment, mineral lands, who has committed or is committing an Baybay for a period of one year.
protected areas and lands of the public offense within their jurisdiction provided in
domain under the jurisdiction of the DENR. environment and natural resources laws, DENR VIII Regional Executive
They shall assist in the issuance of Director Arturo E. Fadriquela thanked the
DENROs for offering voluntary services to
the environment. He emphasized that the
government needs the support and
cooperation of everyone in ensuring a safe,
sound, and healthy environment for all.
Further, he enjoined the DENROs to
exercise their functions responsibly.

Director Fadriquela administered the
oath-taking of Baybay City DENROs,
assisted by the CENR Officer of Baybay
Elmer Labaclado, Baybay City
Administrator Deogracias Pernitez and
other LGU officials.

DENR Administrative Order No. 22
issued in September 2008 sets the revised
guidelines on the deputation of the
Environment and Natural Resources
Officers (ENROs) which covers individuals
and groups who are willing to be involved in
the protection and conservation of the
country’s environment and natural
resources.

INSIDE Page NumberSINP-PAMB Approves PROTECTING THE DENR VIII leads
THIS ISSUE RICH BIODIVERSITY Regionwide
Research on Philippine OF MT. NACOLOD IN Simultaneous
Ironwoods for Genetic SOUTHERN LEYTE
Operation Baklas
Conservation Page 06 on Earth Day
Ecosystem Restoration Page 09

Page 03

@DENR8Official Website: r8.denr.gov.ph

0 2 Tacloban City April - June 2022

Regional Executive Director’s Corner

Arturo E. Fadriquela Sampulna, the Department was able to planted more than 6,0000 seedlings as our
accomplish significant strides in its mandate contribution to the nationwide simultaneous
The second quarter of this year culminated to protect our environment. We were guided tree planting; mangrove tree planting with
with at least two memorable occasions. One by a leadership that had the political will to other partners and stakeholders during the
is the end of a very historic leadership of the fulfill its mandate and a clear road map as observance of Arbor Day; the conduct of
16th President of the Republic of the enunciated by the priority programs. From communication, education and public
Philippines Rodrigo Roa Duterte and the the historic Boracay rehabilitation, to the next awareness (CEPA) during the observance of
celebration of Philippine Environment to impossible clean-up of Manila Bay, the Philippine Eagle Week to communities near
Month. regional offices have replicated the same or within forestland and instill to them the
aggressiveness and passion to rehabilitate our importance of preserving the natural habitats
Under his watch, through his alter denuded forests, polluted waters and air, and of this majestic eagle and other wildlife. That
egos – the Secretaries Regina Paz “Gina” L. many others. We can say that the DENR in and many others were just a fraction of our
Lopez (deceased), Roy A. Cimatu and Jim O. the region had contributed its fair share to “Aksyon Para Sa Natatanging Mundo,” – the
the Duterte legacy that left an indelible mark theme of this year’s Philippine Environment
of a people-oriented leadership which were Month.
responsive to the needs of the people. That
include a healthy and balanced ecology that While we may have accomplished a
cater to the needs of the present and future lot, it is not enough to rest on our laurels. Our
generations. success should motivate us to even work
harder because we owe to our one and only
Likewise, June of each year is our Mother Earth our very existence.
observance of the Philippine Environment
Month. It was filled with various activities And just as our country continues its
that showcased our Department’s road to inclusive progress under a new set of
accomplishments, our outlook for the future, political leaders, the Department will remain
and an opportune time for DENR officials firm on its course and continue to strive to
and employees to bond together and reignite fulfill its mandate.
camaraderie for better working relations
during the 35th DENR founding anniversary. But the challenge remains. We need
the support and cooperation of everyone as
During this Philippine Environment stewards of the environment if we are to be
Month, we distributed hundreds of seedlings effective. Makiisa at samahan niyo po kami!
to clients transacting in our offices for free; ###

DENR VIII celebrates its 35th Anniversary

Pamilyang DENR para resiliency of the
sa Tuluy-Tuloy na workforce to perform its
Pagkakaisa at mandate during the
Tagumpay.” One of the trying times at the height
activities for the of the COVID-19
anniversary is the pandemic,” added
recognition of loyalty Director Fadriquela.
awardees who have The DENR was
served the Department created on June 10, 1987
for 35 years and more. by virtue of Executive
“After more than three various stakeholders. For E. Fadriquela, OIC- “The atmosphere Order 192. It reorganizes
(3) decades, the years to come, the men Regional Executive
Department of and women of the Director of DENR in for this year’s celebration the previous Department
Department in the is festive to relish 35 of Energy, Environment,
Environment and region will painstakingly Region 8. years of remarkable and Natural Resources
Natural Resources work harder for gains The DENR VIII
(DENR) can claim with achieved be maintained celebrated its 35th accomplishments, albeit, and transferred the
and momentum full of challenges. And as energy matters to the
pride that it has created a sustained,” says Arturo founding anniversary on we usher in the new Office of the President
positive impact on the June 10, 2022, with the
environment and on its theme “Pistang normal, a way also to during that time.
pay tribute to the ###

April - June 2022 Tacloban City 03

SINP-PAMB Approves Research on ENR
Philippine Ironwoods for Genetic
Conservation Ecosystem Restoration Some interesting facts about
the Environment
SINP-PAMB chaired by DENR OIC-RED Arturo E. Fadriquela holds its 2nd regular executive
committee meeting together with its members in Borongan City, Eastern Samar. Here are some things that you may or may not have known
about the environment:
The Protected Area Management Board conservation ways and will guarantee the
(PAMB) of Samar Island Natural Park existing conservation initiatives based on 1. Recycling one aluminum can save enough energy to run a
(SINP) approved the Resolution of the their genetic makeup. This research project TV for three hours.
Foreign-Assisted and Special Projects will also aid academic and other research
Service (FASPS) - DENR Research Project institutions in their future research 2. Only 1% of the world's water supply is usable, 97% are the
on Philippine Ironwoods for Genetic endeavors. oceans and 2% is frozen (for now).
“The conservation of ironwood is
Conservation and Ecosystem within the 3. Every time you open the refrigerator door, up to 30 percent
municipalities of Paranas, Samar and important because people continue to of the cold air can escape.
Giporlos, Eastern Samar during the Samar harvest it despite the restrictions. I am
Island Natural Park (SINP) PAMB confident that through this research, our 4. A modern glass bottle takes 4000 years or more to
Executive Committee meeting presided by conservation efforts will be strengthened,” decompose.
DENR Regional Executive Director Arturo says Regional Executive Director
Fadriquela. 5. Plastic bags and other plastic garbage thrown into the
E. Fadriquela. ocean kill as many as 1,000,000 sea creatures every year.
“It is true that this research will
This was one of the highlighted 6. The amount of wood and paper we throw away each year is
agenda since the conduct of genetic increase our knowledge primarily in the enough to heat 50,000,000 homes for 20 years.
sampling from ironwood (locally known as DENR but ultimately, the PAMB can use the
mangkono ) by researchers needed further research material in managing this Protected 7. About one-third of an average landfill is made up of
Area since this is a site-specific study. It is packaging material.
clarification from the SINP-PAMB.
The proponents of this research important that we have these scientific 8. Rainforests are being cut down at the rate of 100 acres per
project composed of researchers from the studies as basis in coming up with minute.
University of the Philippines Los Baños significant decisions,” he added.
Under DENR Administrative Order 9. The world's tallest tree is a coast redwood in California,
(UPLB) said, the expected output will measuring more than 360 feet or 110 meters.
generate a special distribution map of (DAO) 2017-11 or the Updated National
ironwood in Samar. This will help the List of Threatened Philippine Plants and 10. The U.S. is the #1 trash-producing country in the world at
DENR in monitoring the extent of ironwood their Categories, mangkono (Xanthostemon 1,609 pounds per person per year. This means that 5% of
the world's people generate 40% of the world's waste. They
in the area and assist the Department in verdugonianus) is listed as toss out two billion plastic razors, a million and a half tons
of paper towels, and 12 billion disposable diapers annually.
crafting policy guidelines relative to the “endangered,” meaning its
Source: https://www.earthecho.org/news
utilization of the species. survival in the wild is
Ten Simple Things You Can Do
Also, DNA barcoding and genotyping unlikely if the causal to Help Protect the Earth

of ironwoods will facilitate effective factors continue operating. 1. Reduce, reuse, and recycle. Cut down on what
you throw away. Follow the three “R’s” to
conserve natural resources and landfill space.

2. Volunteer. Volunteer for clean-ups in your
community. You can get involved in protecting
your watershed, too.

3. Educate. When you further your own education,
you can help others understand the importance and
value of our natural resources.

4. Conserve water. The less water you use, the less
runoff and wastewater that eventually end up in the
ocean. Tip: turn off the faucet in between brushing
your teeth, or washing dishes.

5. Choose sustainable. Learn how to make smart
seafood choices at www.fishwatch.gov.

6. Shop wisely. Buy less plastic and bring a reusable
shopping bag.

7. Use long-lasting light bulbs. Energy-efficient light
bulbs reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Also, flip
the light switch off when you leave the room! Tip:
Try visiting local stores and or small businesses for
the purchase of energy-efficient lightbulbs.

8. Plant a tree. Trees provide food and oxygen. They
help save energy, clean the air, and help combat
climate change.

9. Don’t send chemicals into our waterways.
Choose non-toxic chemicals in the home and
office.

10. Bike more. Drive less.
SanodurNceast:ionahltOtpcsi:e//nwSwerwv.iwceellnesscenter.uic.edu

0 4 Tacloban City April - June 2022

DENR EV launches Solid Waste
Management Advocacy Campaign

(L) DENR 8 officials with Tacloban City ENR Officer Jonathan Hijada present the solid waste management mascot, Pinas: The Basura Buster during the
launch of the SWM in Eastern Visayas. PBB will be the image of the SWM program of the DENR. (R) ARD for Management Services Arturo N. Salazar, EMB
RD Reynaldo Barra and ARD for Technical Services Dario O. Suarez introduce the Basura Buster game application to children present during the SWM
Advocacy Campaign launching.

The Department of Environment and “We have always believed in the The Department hopes that through
Natural Resources (DENR) in Eastern capacity of the youth to propagate sound the SWM advocacy campaign as represented
Visayas in partnership with the environmental practices, however the by Pinas the Basura Buster, the different
Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) responsibility to shape young mind lie in our sectors will rally forward the message to
launched the Solid Waste Management hands, so we ask your assistance in pursue sound environmental practices.
Advocacy Campaign to raise public disseminating our advocacy. Please help us The launching of the SWM Advocacy
awareness on proper solid waste get on board the different sectors of our Campaign in Eastern Visayas was graced by
management. society in our solid waste management Tacloban City Environment and Natural
The campaign featured the ‘Pinas advocacy campaign,” he said. Resources Officer Jonathan R. Hijada,
Basura Buster’ (PBB) mascot, audio video DENR Assistant Regional Director for
presentations, and the new mobile game “We hope that this event will provide Technical Services Dario O. Suarez,
application for children five to eight years not just entertainment but most importantly Assistant Regional Director for Management
old called ‘Basura Buster’. will convey the message that we are Services Arturo Salazar, EMB Regional
EMB 8 Regional Director Engr. altogether in realizing, collaborating, and Director Reynaldo Barra, and MGB Division
Reynaldo B. Barra said the campaign seeks supporting our solid waste management Chief Engr. Reynaldo Babatugon.
to build strong foundation on proper solid program,” USec De Leon added. Undersecretary De Leon and SCIS Director
waste management among children and Bayam took part in the launching through
youth who are expected to soon serve as Director Khalil S. Bayam of the virtual messages. The launching was
ambassadors of solid waste management. Strategic Communication and Initiatives attended by the Provincial Environment and
DENR Undersecretary for Service DENR central office encouraged Natural Resources Officers (PENROs),
Enforcement, Solid Waste Management, everyone to be part of the advocacy and to Community Environment and Natural
Local Government Units Concerns and work together to protect the environment Resources Officers (CENROs),
Attached Agencies Benito Antonio T. De and conserve our natural resources. representatives from the local government
Leon solicited the support of partners from
the local government units (LGUs), The DENR invites its partners from units, academe, ENR
the LGUs, academe, youth, media and the Ambassadors, youth,
academe, media, and other stakeholders in general public to use the mobile game government agencies, media
molding the mindset of the youth towards application ‘Basura Buster’ which can be
proper solid waste management. downloaded through the Goggle Playstore and partner industries.
and the PBB materials in spreading SWM ###
concepts in region 8.

April - June 2022 Tacloban City 05

DENR rescues captive Visayan Warty Pig

“The continued presence of warty pigs, and Visayan Warty Pig was tied to a rope while in captivity. (Right) The
other wildlife in their natural habitat is an same Visayan Warty Pig initially savored the vegetation once
important component for a balanced released before dashing into the forest as a free wildlife.
ecosystem. The citizenry must be mobilized
for their protection and the conservation of “The protection and conservation of resources and including killing and
the forests where they dwell,” says Forester our flora and fauna species in the wild are of destroying wildlife species; injuring and
Glen Garciano, OIC-Chief, Enforcement that magnitude in terms of importance, in maltreating; collecting, hunting, or
Division of the Department of Environment fact, a law has been passed providing its possessing wildlife; and trading, among other
and Natural Resources in Region 8. corresponding imprisonment and fine for prohibited acts. Depending on the category
those that will be proven to have committed of wildlife, imprisonment of
Such was the message conveyed by the prohibited acts,” five (5) days to as long as
Forester Garciano to the residents of a far- added Forester Garciano. Under R.A. 9147 or twelve (12) years and a fine
flung barangay of a municipality in Eastern the “Wildlife Resources Conservation and of Php200.00 to as high as
Samar where a captive Visayan Warty Pig was Protection Act”, it is unlawful for any person Php1,000,000.00 shall be
rescued and eventually released back to the to willfully and knowingly exploit wildlife imposed upon violators.
wild. The release was through the
cooperation and assistance of the barangay
officials and some elements of the Philippine
Army that were assigned in the area.

Based on DENR Administrative Order
2019-09 that updated the list of threatened
Philippine fauna and their categories, the
Visayan Warty Pig (Sus cebifrons) is
categorized as critically endangered and is
endemic to certain Visayan Islands. As a
critically endangered species, it means that it
is facing an extremely high risk of extinction
in the wild in the immediate future.

PENRO-Biliran releases critically endangered
Philippine Hanging Parakeet

immediately released environmental laws the wild in the responsible stewards

at the forested area among the immediate future. of the environment,

of Brgy. Talustusan, communities”, says While not listed immediately report

Naval. Ms. Maria Cristina among those to the nearest DENR

“It is Alberto Santos, the threatened Philippine field office or other

becoming a practice designated fauna, possession of law enforcement

among residents to information officer the white-eared agencies any

immediately report of PENRO-Biliran. brown dove without information relative

to proper authorities Under DENR a permit is still to any violation of

each time they come Administrative Order unlawful per R.A. 9147”,

across somebody in 2019-09 that updated provision of reminded Arturo E.

Critically endangered Philippine Hanging Parakeet, their locality with the list of threatened Republic Act 9147 or Fadriquela, OIC-
perched on a tree, is endemic in the Philippines.
unlawful possession Philippine fauna and the “Wildlife Regional Executive
of any form of
A pair of critically Maritime Law wildlife. Probably a their categories, the Resources Director of DENR in

e n d a n g e r e d E n f o r c e m e n t product of our Philippine Hanging Conservation and Region 8. ###

Philippine Hanging stationed at Brgy. sustained effort of Parrot, commonly Protection Act.

Parakeet (colasisi) Alegria, Caibiran, c o n d u c t i n g known as “colasisi” “We call on

and a pair of White- Biliran. information, is categorized as the citizenry to

eared brown dove Assessed by a education, and critically support our effort to

(alimukon) were licensed veterinarian c o m m u n i c a t i o n endangered. curb, if not totally

turned over by as physically fit, said (IEC) activities Meaning, it is facing halt, injuring, killing

residents to the species were r e g a r d i n g an extremely high and the illegal trade

risk of extinction in of wildlife. As

06 April June 20T2a2cloban City TaAcplorbil a-nJuCniety 2022

Feature Story: epitomized in the provincial level through the
formation of the Provincial Management
PROTECTING THE RICH BIODIVERSITY Council (PMC) and to the local government
OF MT. NACOLOD IN SOUTHERN LEYTE units, the Site Management Committee
(SMC).
As humanity, we are tasked to have the ability LGUs Leading the Way: Mt. Nacolod as A
to treat the environment as the umbilical cord Local Conservation Area As shared by Mr. Servando L. Acedo,
that sustains life, without which, it forfeits our the Supervising Ecosystems Management
right to exist. For that reason, we should shun As a true environmental advocate that Specialist (SVEMS) of PENRO-Southern
looking at the environment as a source of values a healthy ecology, the political leaders of Leyte, “Mt. Nacolod finds home to a diverse
profit to satisfy our greed – our wants and not Southern Leyte have enacted an ordinance species of flora and fauna. It is said that there
our needs. Our inability to appreciate the declaring Mt. Nacolod as a Forest Protected are 229 flora species with 14% of them
invaluable role that our environment plays in Area then eventually declaring Mt. Nacolod endemic to the Philippines, 9% classified as
the survival of the present and future range within the province of Southern Leyte as vulnerable, and 4% critically endangered. Not
generations would result in the cessation of the Mt. Nacolod Local Conservation Area through to be outdone is also the fauna that inhabits
world as we know it. a provincial ordinance. With this, the local the mountain range. Studies conducted would
governments from the provincial level down to reveal that there are 212 terrestrial vertebrates
Lately, we have been bombarded with the municipal level accepted the challenge of with a high percentage considered as endemic
alarming figures and events that portray a leading the way in protecting and conserving including the Philippine Eagle and Mindanao
dying planet. There is the warming of the Mt. Nacolod together with the Department of bleeding-heart pigeon, Philippine eagle owl,
Earth’s atmosphere, massive forest fires that Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Philippine dwarf kingfisher, Visayan broadbill,
further negatively impacts an already greatly the academe, the non-government all classifies as threatened”.
denuded and degraded forest, rising water organizations (NGOs), people’s organizations Mt. Nacolod Sustaining Life and Source of
level that threatens to engulf communities (POs) and various stakeholders. This is Livelihood
along coastlines, scarcity of water supply, and
even short intervals of stronger typhoons that The Mt, Nacolod range within
have wreaked havoc and sufferings to lives,
property, and livelihood. With these realities
on the ground, people have taken notice and
have started to make interventions to avert
further disaster.

Teeming with Diverse Flora and Fauna © PENRO So. Leyte © PENRO So. Leyte
The province of Southern Leyte has © PENRO So. Leyte

been known to be a stalwart of environmental
advocacies. They have been promoting the
planting of trees, protecting their remaining
dense forest, and keeping their air clean by
prohibiting the sale and use of cigarettes in
public. These are important steps in protecting
the healthy ecology of the province
considering that more than half of the land
area of the province is still covered with forest
– 88,812 hectares out of 163,271 hectares or an
impressive 54%. This is a positive indicator
that necessitates aggressive interventions and
innovations to maintain, and even strengthen
its rich biodiversity.

Based on the biodiversity assessment
conducted, the forest of Southern Leyte is
home to 350 species of trees, 133 species of
birds, 27 species of amphibians, 57 species of
reptiles, and 40 species of mammals. With
these remarkable figures, we can just imagine
the negative impact on the environment and
its diverse flora and fauna if not protected,
conserved, and properly managed.

April - June 2022 Tacloban City 07

Southern Leyte encompasses five (5) problem in our area. Not only was the © PENRO So. Leyte
municipalities, namely, Sogod, Silago, Libagon, government able to construct the needed
St. Bernard, and Hinunangan. The relatively infrastructures to facilitate the delivery of played an important role in managing the
dense forest of the mountain range, directly water services to every household for our resources of Mt. Nacolod mountain range is
and indirectly, benefits more than 200,000 convenience, it is of no cost to us. Water is that of the Kahupian Upland Farmer’s
residents. The richness of its natural resources, free,” says Mr. Bohol. Association (KUFA) from Brgy. Kahupian,
including minerals, forests, and non-timber Sogod, Southern Leyte. Through the 2,152
raw materials provide economic opportunities Indeed, Mt. Nacolod has provided the hectares tenurial instrument awarded to them,
to residents. Likewise, Mt. Nacolod is the needed materials to sustain the life and they also planted assorted commodities of
primary source of major watersheds of livelihood of thousands of residents. Aside forest trees, fruit trees, rattan, and bamboo.
Higasaan, Hinabian-Lawigan, Buac, and Das- from the abundant water supply that is utilized
ay. In fact, the Buac and Hinabian-Lawigan for the daily consumption of its residents, the “There is a noticeable improvement of
Watershed Reservation have been considered forests of Mt. Nacolod have provided food, fuel our forest in the area today. A few years back,
as major watershed reserves. Preserving the wood, and other raw materials for commercial the timberland was almost barren and
landscape, specifically the trees that remain purposes such as for furniture and house denuded. Now, with the trees fully grown, the
bountiful in the area is a matter of necessity for construction. cool atmosphere is again a welcome feeling
carbon sequestration and a steady source of and various species of wildlife have returned
water for household use and irrigation. The PLPEDA is one of the many and settled in the area,” shared Mr. Mariejun
people’s organizations that not only has H. Pacati, president of KUFA.
Mr. Junie B. Alas, vice-president of the planted thousands of seedlings on hectares of
Pontana Livelihood Project for Environmental timberland awarded to them under the Lately, they have noticed that not only
Development Association (PLPEDA) from National Greening Program (NGP), and other birds of different species can be spotted in the
Brgy. Pontana, Silago, Southern Leyte, projects from the Department. They were able area, there were also confirmed sighting of
underscores the importance of their to plant seedlings of rattan on a 25 hectares tarsier in the area. “We plan to venture into
watersheds. “Water supply was never a area, 20 hectares of fruit-bearing trees, 30 ecotourism by offering nature trekking in the
hectares of fuel wood, and 60 hectares of area for visitors. Not only will we be more
mangium under the Upland Development motivated to protect the restored forests, it will
Project (UDP). also be added as an alternative livelihood to
our members and the community, as a whole,”
“Just recently we were given the permit added Mr. Pacati.
to harvest our planted mangium trees and we
were able to utilize the wood to build our
office, improve the houses of members and sell
some where the proceeds are divided among
the members while a portion of fund raised is
set aside as operational fund for the
association,” shared Mr. Bohol.

Another people’s organization that has

Nature Returns the Favor

Threats to the delicate balance once
abound in the area. Among those that
conservationist has to contend with were the
rampant timber poaching, slash and burn

MT. NACOLOD... 8

0 8 Tacloban City April - June 2022

MT. NACOLOD ...6 © PENRO So. Leyte protected area under the Expanded National
farming (kaingin), illegal wildlife trade, Integrated Protected Area System (ENIPAS).
member of KUFA. Through this, it is projected that the
and encroachment of human settlement to Maritess is just one of many establishment of a Protected Area will ensure
classified as timberland areas. But through the continued existence of all native plants and
aggressive and sustained community beneficiaries who have expressed their animals for the benefit of the present and
education and public awareness to the various appreciation for the opportunity to be part in future generations.
stakeholders on the importance of protecting rehabilitating and protecting Mt. Nacolod
and conserving resources of Mt. Nacolod, while at the same time earning something Likewise, if declared as a protected area,
there was a noticeable change in the attitude of from it. No longer do they have to resort to it will unburden the concerned local
the people. Such conversion became more illegal utilization of forest resources to earn a government units of their budget allocation
apparent with the intervention of government living. under Mt. Nacolod as a Local Conservation
programs and projects that provided the Area (LCA). A fund that the LGUs can allocate
people alternative livelihood. As a forest rehabilitation, food security to other priorities while strengthening the
and poverty alleviation program, the collaboration and support to the Department
Interventions made by the Department implementation of NGP in the province of on its mandate to protect, conserve and
through the different people’s organizations Southern Leyte was able to provide properly utilize the resources found within Mt.
enabled the planting of 2,762 assorted employment to 72,580 individuals and families Nacolod.
commodities of forest trees, rattan and from 2011 to present alone, 39% of which are
bamboo spread across the 5,524 National beneficiaries from Mt. Nacolod mountain With funding from the national budget
Greening Program area within the Mt. range.
Nacolod mountain range within Southern if declared as a protected area, it will provide
Leyte. A Bright Prospect
the needed stimulus to further improve
With the forest rehabilitated and While declaring Mt. Nacolod Mountain
stakeholders benefitting from it, they took it Range within Southern Leyte has created a biodiversity conservation in the area.
upon themselves to ensure that it does not positive impact for its protection and
revert back to its old sorry state. Through conservation, it has its own limitations. Two of “The protected area sustainability and
vigilance and the formation of Bantay Lasang the identified limiting factors are the limited
volunteers and enactment of ordinances, there funding of the local government units and the assessment report together with other required
was a decrease of reported illegal utilization of lack of experts on biodiversity conservation,
forest resources. not to mention, the lack of support staff and documents have already been submitted to the
multiple functions of designated as focal
Indeed, nature has its own way of persons. Biodiversity Management Bureau (BMB) for
giving back. People were able to plant and
harvest root crops and vegetables within the Faced with that challenge, there is now their assessment and consideration. We hope
awarded timberland areas that they have the campaign to declare the entire Mt. Nacolod
rehabilitated. From the funds provided for the mountain range as a protected area. If this will that the effort of all stakeholders to declare Mt.
planting and maintenance of plantation sites, materialize, it will include the municipalities of
members of the people’s organization were able Mahaplag and Abuyog which are part of the Nacolod Mountain Range as a protected area
to provide food for their families, make Leyte province.
needed repairs and improvements of their will become a reality. The prospect is
respective homes and provide for their other Various stakeholders are working hard
necessities. for Mt. Nacolod to eventually be declared as a promising”, says Mr. Servando.

“With the money I earned from the Meantime, all the stakeholders of Mt,
projects of the DENR, I was able to support
the education of my children. One was able to Nacolod will remain steadfast on its
graduate and after finding a job, is now
helping us back”, shared Ms. Maritess Triller, a commitment for a healthy and balanced

ecology of this beautiful and majestic

mountain range. After all, as one Indian Guru

said, “Taking care of the environment is not an

obligation – our environment is our life. ###

April - June 2022 Tacloban City 09

DENR VIII leads Regionwide Simultaneous
Operation Baklas on Earth Day Eastern Samar, and Biliran. It was held in

collaboration with the Commission on

along public roads, in plazas, parks, school Elections (COMELEC), Department of Public

premises or in any other public pleasure Works and Highways (DPWH), Philippine

ground. National Police (PNP), and the local

It was also held to cascade the effort of government unit.

the Department to mobilize the citizenry Participants of the Operation ‘Baktas,

towards a zero-waste election campaign and Baklas, Bandilyo’ walked through carlines to

injury-free trees. remove and collect posters nailed on trees. A

The Operation ‘Baktas, Baklas, recorded reminder on the prohibition of

Bandilyo’ was conducted simultaneously by posting ads on trees or bandilyo was played

the PENROs, CENROs and the regional office while the activity was ongoing.

in some municipalities within the six (6) The simultaneous activity yielded over

provinces of Eastern Visayas – Leyte, five thousand six hundred (5,600) campaign

Southern Leyte, Northern Samar, Samar, Baklas 12

DENR enjoins the public to support
the observance of Earth Hour

DENR VIII RED Arturo E. Fadriquela (L) and “Faced with our continuing adaption on the
ARD for Technical Services Atty. Dario O. impact of COVID-19, the increasing fuel
Suarez (R) lead the Operation Baklas in Samar. prices which show our fragile dependency
on fossil fuel, and devastation from natural
The Department of Environment and Natural disasters of recent past, has added meaning
Resources in Eastern Visayas led a regionwide and an even urgent call for attitudinal and
simultaneous removal of campaign materials, behavioral change as we observe yet
advertisements, and advocacy posters nailed another Earth Hour,” says Tirso P. Parian,
on trees on Earth Day - April 22. Jr., CESO IV, Regional Executive Director
of the Department of Environment and
Dubbed as Operation 'Baktas, Baklas, Natural Resources (DENR) in Region VIII.
Bandilyo,' the activity intended to heighten the
level of awareness among the citizenry on RED Parian issued this statement as
existing laws, rules, and regulations regarding Earth Hour 12
the prohibition of cutting, destroying, or
injuring planted or growing trees, especially

April is month of the Planet Earth The DENR VIII, in partnership with
other concerned agencies, the private sector,
April is recognized as the Month of the in Our Planet” that rallied for courage to local government units, non-government
Planet Earth by virtue of Proclamation No. preserve and protect our health, our organizations, civic and religious
1482 signed on April 10, 2008. This year, families, our livelihoods by investing in our organizations concerned, spearheaded the
we are celebrated it with the theme, “Invest planet. observance through the conduct of support
activities that highlighted the promotion of
earth sciences towards a better society.

Amidst this celebration, the DENR
also reminded the public on the strict
enforcement of the prohibition of posting of
election ads on trees and implementation of
a zero waste election system.

Newly designated OIC-Regional
Executive Director (RED) Arturo E.
Fadriquela of the Department of
Environment and Natural Resources
(DENR)-Region 8 echoed that the
Philippines, through the DENR supports
global consensus on the need to protect and

Planet Earth month 12

1 0 Tacloban City April - June 2022

June is Philippine HR@UR SERVICE
Environment Month

The Department of Environment and the DENR Anniversary on June 10, World
Natural Resources (DENR) joined the Day to Combat Desertification on June 17,
nation in celebrating Philippine and the Philippine Arbor Day on June 25.
Environment Month in June and the global
observance of World Environment Day in In support of these celebrations,
June 5. DENR 8 lined-up several activities. On June
6, the regional office conducted seedling
Anchored on this year’s global theme distribution to encourage individuals and
‘Only One Earth,’ the country observed the groups to plant trees. This was held during
month-long event with a local theme the Tabo Market Day at the regional office
‘Aksyon para sa Nag-iisang Mundo.’ This which also showcased products of DENR
highlighted the call for collective action to partner people’s organizations.
celebrate, protect and restore the planet.
On June 4-10, a series of
The month of June was proclaimed as communication, education, and public
Philippine Environment Month by virtue of awareness activities (CEPA) was held in
Proclamation No. 237 signed by then Eastern Samar to highlight the importance
President Corazon C. Aquino on April 4, of the Philippine Eagle.
1988.
An exhibit featuring environmental
Alongside this celebration, the DENR posters made by students was opened to
is also marked other significant public for viewing at Robinsons Place
environmental events. The Philippine Eagle Marasbaras from June 5-6.
Week celebrated annually from June 4-10,
Philippine Envi. Month. 12

‘Laro ng Lahi’ in DENR VIII

In celebration of its 35th Anniversary and Salu-salo," the activity aimed to highlight HR@UR SERVICE: The DENR VIII
this year's Philippine Environment Month, the importance of strong camaraderie conducted an activity dubbed as HR @ UR
DENR 8 brought back memories of among officials and employees as Service from June 20-24, 2022 at the DENR
friendship and fun among its employees emphasized in the Department's 35th Regional Office, Tacloban City.
through traditional Filipino games (Laro Anniversary theme "Pistang Pamilyang
ng Lahi). DENR para sa Tuloy-tuloy na Pagkakaisa Various government agencies and
at Tagumpay." service providers from private entities
Dubbed as "Pistang Palaro: Laro at contributed in bringing their services and
products closer to DENR employees and
their immediate family members.

Among the participating government
agencies who supported the said DENR
activity and its cause are Philippine Statistics

HR at Your Service 12

April - June 2022 Tacloban City 11

EV joins simultaneous nationwide tree planting
to kick-off Philippine Environment Month
celebration

Eastern Visayas joined the the simultaneous appreciation of their importance to a Volunteers join the simultaneous nationwide
nationwide tree planting activity balanced ecosystem and a healthy tree planting spearheaded by the DENR to
spearheaded by the Department of environment will be imbued on each and kick-off the celebration of the Philippine
Environment and Natural Resources every one. Environment Month.
(DENR) on June 8 to kick-off the
celebration of the Philippine Environment
Month.

Over two thousand (2,000)
volunteers planted around six thousand two
hundred twenty (6,220) seedlings of various
species in different planting sites
throughout the region prepared by DENR
VIII’s six (6) Provincial Environment and
Natural Resources Offices (PENROs),
eleven (11) Community and Environment
and Natural Resources Offices (CENROs),
and the regional office.

While spearheaded by the
Department, the tree planting activity was a
collaborative effort that was participated in
by other government agencies, local
government units, uniformed personnel,
the academe, youth, private sector, religious
sector and other volunteers.

“The importance of trees for our
environment and that of our own healthy
existence, if not, our own survival itself, can
never be emphasized enough. It was
imperative that all should have the passion
and the patience to plant trees and ensure
their healthy growth,” says Marissa
Cebuano, Regional Coordinator of the
National Greening Program (NGP) of
DENR in Region 8.

Meanwhile, Regional Executive
Director Arturo E. Fadriquela has earlier
stressed that the planting of trees is a
concrete response to the call to action that
is the core message of this year’s Philippine
Environment Month theme, “Aksyon Para

sa Natatanging
Mundo.” By enjoining
the citizens to plant
and grow trees, the
Department is hoping
that a greater

1 2 Tacloban City April - June 2022

Month of the planet Earth...9 HR@UR SERVICE...10 Baklas...9

save our planet from environmental Authority (PSA), Philhealth, Social posters removed from trees along the
degradation and ensure a sustainable future Security System (SSS), Government Service major carlines. Participants were instructed to
for all people. Insurance System (GSIS), Department of carefully remove the posters from trees for
Health (DOH), Philippine Red Cross, inventory and recycling.
“This election time is an opportune PagIbig Fund and the City Health Office.
time to call on our political candidates and DENR Region 8 Regional Executive
rally for a sustainable future for all by Life Insurance companies such as St. Director Arturo E. Fadriquela, thanked the
investing in our planet through advocacies Peter, Caritas, Holy Cross, Sunlife Financial, DENR partners for supporting the Operation
that will promote environmental protection Pru Life UK, Financial Wealth Planner were Baklas activity which is aimed at intensifying
and conservation. We encourage the use of also present. Zynergia provided health the promotion of an environmentally
recyclable, reusable and environment- consultation, detoxification and MRA conscious national and local election
friendly materials and not to post campaign screening to the willing employees while campaign.
materials on trees,” says RED Fadriquela. GEV's Salon provided haircut, manicure
### and pedicure. “Prior to our Earth Day simultaneous
Operation Baklas, our PENROs and CENROs
Earth Hour...9 Meanwhile, qualified DENR have been conducting similar activity to
employees took part in saving other people's remind the election candidates and their
he joined the call for greater lives by joining the blood-letting activity. supporters to avoid nailing campaign ads on
participation from walks of life in creating a trees. This is also in compliance to the tall
“new normal” that puts paramount switch off non-essential lights for an hour
importance on the well-being of people and on March 26, 2022, starting at 8:30 in the order of Secretary Jim O.
of the planet at the forefront before evening, and reflect on concrete actions Sampulna to strictly enforce
anything else. that each and everyone can contribute to the prohibition of posting
reverse nature loss and achieve a climate- election ads on trees.” says
“This necessitates people to resilient future. RED Fadriquela.
reconnect with nature and embrace the ###
truth that only if we have a healthy The theme for this year’s observance
ecosystem can we ever truly survive and of Earth Hour is, “Shape Our Future” with DENR Region VIII
provide a livable habitat for the future the hashtags, #EarthHour and
generation,” added RED Parian. #Connect2Earth. It will be celebrated EDITORIAL STAFF
through a digital on-the-night event that
For this year, Earth Hour will be will serve also as a Augustus Ceasar V. Lantajo Mae Joy V. Vero
celebrated against a backdrop of a persistent platform to spread the Circulation Manager/Photographer Researcher
COVID-19 pandemic that has changed the message on the
world as well as the Typhoon Odette that environmental crisis we Atty. Johann Hein B. Arpon Hedy M. Yao
wrought havoc to a sizeable part of Visayas are in and the urgency for Bonavie M. Robinio Devon Nerza
and Mindanao. collective global action. Joy P. Tagget Layout Artists
S#e#r#vice” from June 20-24. Writers
And so the call is for people to
Another tree planting activity with Rowena C. Opiniano
Philippine Envi. Month. 10 partners from different sectors is was Editor-in-Chief
On June 8, the Department held a conducted last June 25 in celebration of
Philippine Arbor Day. TECHNICAL ADVISERS
simultaneous nationwide tree planting. The Arturo N. Salazar
DENR in region viii planted around six “The observance of World
thousand (6,000) seedlings of various Environment Day, Philippine Environment ARD for Management Services
species throughout the region. Month, and other environmental events this Atty. Dario O. Suarez
June bears a reminder that we only have one
DENR’s Anniversary celebration on earth to live on. Therefore, we need to take OIC-ARD for Technical Services
June 10 highlighted the recognition of urgent actions to address the pressing issues Arturo E. Fadriquela
DENR loyalty awardees who have served affecting our planet such as climate change,
the Department for thirty-five (35) years habitat loss, and pollution,” says Arturo E. OIC-Regional Executive Director
and more. This was celebrated with the Fadriquela, OIC-Regional Executive
theme “Pistang Pamilyang DENR para sa Director of DENR Region 8. “Let us take CONTRIBUTORS
Tuloy-tuloy na Pagkakaisa at Tagumpay.” sustainable and progressive steps in taking PENROs/CENROs
care of the environment, even beyond these
Putting premium on its workforce, celebrations,” he adds. Division Chiefs
the DENR held a sports week dubbed ### DENR Employees
“Pistang Pamilyang DENR” from June 13-17
and invited government agencies and Contact Information
partners to provide services to employees in
a week-long event dubbed “HR@UR Office of the Regional Executive Director : (053) 832 - 0825
Office of the Assistant Regional Executive
Director for Management Services : (053) 832 - 1887
Office of the Assistant Regional Executive
Director for Technical Services : (053) 832 - 0827
Administrative Division : (053) 832 - 0655
Finance Division : (053) 832 - 0822
Planning and Management Division : (053) 832 - 0027
Legal Division : (053) 832 - 0862
Survey and Mapping Division : (053) 832 - 0863
Enforcement Division : (053) 832 - 2196
Licenses, Patents and Deeds Division : (053) 832 - 0630
Conservation and Development Division : (053) 832 - 0032

Kalikasan is an internal publication produced quarterly by the
Regional Strategic Communication and Initiatives
Group, Department of Environment and Natural Resources,
Region 8, with office at Sto. Niño Extension, Tacloban City.
Contributions are welcome. However, the editorial staff
reserves the right to edit all articles contributed for
publication. Reprint is allowed as long as credit is given.

@DENR8Official Website: r8.denr.gov.ph