Annual Report Draft

2 Calendar Year 2022 was indeed a challenging year for Region 2, for having been satisfactorily achieving the targets on various programs and projects towards the protection, conservation, management and development for a resilient environment and natural resources in Cagayan Valley. With strong determination and support in fulfilling our goals towards sustainable development, the impacts of the pandemic that came our way has never been a hindrance in delivering our outputs by way of embracing the “new normal” scheme. With strong conviction, political will and resolve to make a difference, we garnered awards and recognitions. Through collective efforts, we raised the bar of performance. As highlights, we successfully implemented the online system of our Recruitment and Selection, strengthened partnership with other government agencies, Peoples Organizations, Local Government Units, private sectors, academic institutions, other stakeholders and among others. All of these, are instruments leading to the success of this organization. For these accomplishments, I am thankful to the men and women of this region in putting considerable measure of additional time to elevate the performance and the support you have nailed throughout the year. The willingness to take challenges is admirable. Let us continue to work with pleasure for our purpose. With all the invaluable endeavors and diligent work to this department, may all these be bolstered with the help, cooperation, and commitment of every individual combined with prayer. It is my great appreciation! As we welcome another year of uncertainty and ambiguity, we face it with hope and optimism. Let us continue our efforts of developing new approaches and systems to enhance public service delivery. Let us also continue to upscale our competencies and to always put science in our policy and decision making. The environmental issues that we are confronting particularly climate change, requires collective efforts from all stakeholders. Partnerships and collaboration is a must. Definitely our hands will be again full this coming year. But I'm optimistic that with what we have sown for the past years, we will again with God's grace be able to brace the challenges and make the most of the opportunities that will come our way. We, however, should always pray to God for guidance. Again, I thank everyone for the continued support and cooperation. Let us have the courage to have the will to win and the desire to succeed in implementing various environmental programs in the coming years. GWENDOLYN C. BAMBALAN, DPA, CESO III Regional Executive Director MESSAGE FROM THE Regional Executive Director

3 Through the utmost commitment and dedication of all employees in the entire Region, CY 2022 proved to be a productive and fruitful year for DENR Region 2 as it successfully accomplished all its targets and activities on time. The worldwide pandemic and calamities that visited the region are not a hindrance for DENR Region 2 to surpass its annual targets in most of the major programs and activities with percent accomplishments ranging from 100 percent to 274 percent. The entire workforce of regular and contractual employees in the whole region exerted efforts in the realization of these endeavors through the efficient leadership of the Regional Executive Director Gwendolyn C. Bambalan. For CY 2022, Region 2 has a total budget of Php 981,831,000.00 under the regular fund. These comprised Personnel Services (PS/RLIP) Php 524,371,000.00; Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses (MOOE) Php 266,071,000.00 and Capital Outlay (CO), Php 191,389. Likewise, the region received an additional allotment covered by Sub Allotment Advices (SAAs) downloaded by the Central Office amounting to Php 38,186,000. The budget contributed much to the attainment of all the goals and targets for the year. It was utilized and managed efficiently and effectively following the provisions of the Government Accounting Manual (GAM) for the National Government. In support to the government’s effort to ensure food security, the region implemented various projects and activities that seek to reduce poverty, promote food security and improve lives. These include the Enhanced National Greening Program, which generated a total of 3,305 jobs which involved 733 families; the Coastal and Marine Ecosystems Management Program’s Biodiversity Friendly Enterprise (BDFE) component which assisted a total of 9 people’s organizations in effectively managing their respective enterprises; and the Community-Based Forest Management (CBFM) which assisted a total of 103 people’s organizations through livelihood activities while enhancing our Natural Resources. In ensuring sound macroeconomic fundamentals, DENR Region 2 is continuous in improving bureaucratic efficiency through innovative, strategic and systematic approaches to fulfill obligations to conserve and develop our natural resources. For the year, DENR Region 2 obtained Maturity Level 2 in four core areas of the Program to Institutionalize Meritocracy and Excellence in Human Resource Management (PRIMEHRM). These core areas include recruitment, selection and placement; learning and development; performance management; and rewards and recognition. Also, DENR Region and all of its field offices have obtained International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 9001:2015 certification. The region and all of its field offices worked for this achievement to serve the public better and continually improve and institutionalize quality management system and sustainable natural resources. As the DENR pursue a “Blue” and “Green” economy, refering respectively on the coastal and marine sectors, and the forestry sector to address climate mitigation and adaptation, the region assessed and mapped a total of 711.33 hectares of coral reefs, 153.11 hectares of seagrass and 77 hectares of mangroves. Water quality monitoring was also undertaken to all NIPAS MPAs for wet and dry seasons. Further, the two established MPA networks, the Ivatan Marine Protected Area Network and EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

4 Northeastern Isabela Coastal Enforcement Network in BPLS and NSMNP, respectively have conducted milestone activities under the establishment and strengthening phase of MPA networking. Maintenance and protection activities such as conduct of patrolling, habitats survey/threats observation, maintenance of equipment and direct activities, and approval of response plans were also successfully carried out. Technical assistance was also provided to all local government units regionwide on coastal and marine related concerns while two LGUs were assisted with the implementation of activities indicated in their respective Strategic Plans under the MPA network establishment. For green economy, the region established a total of 22 National Greening Program (NGP) sites covering an area of 1,976 hectares planting 1,089,335 indigenous forest tree seedlings and quality bamboo propagules. Also, the region produced a total of 2,590,581 seedlings which was made possible thru the active participation of Peoples Organization, Local Government Units, the Modernized and Mechanized Forest Nursery, Clonal Nurseries and the compliance of the RMC 2014-01. As part of the intensified protection of forests, the region apprehended a total of 224.40 cubic meters of illegally-cut and transported logs with an estimated cost of PHP 10,235,860.73 and seized a total of 11.25 cu.m. of lumber with an estimated cost of PHP 323,002.35 as a result of close coordination with other law enforcement agencies and LGUs. As to the Protected Areas, Protected Area Management Board meetings were held to discuss concerns and issues relative the management of their protected areas. A total of 52 meetings were conducted with 148 resolutions reviewed and passed. PAMB meetings were conducted through face-to-face, virtual and blended platform. As part of its initiatives, the region initiated the improvement of Ecotourism Facilities within the Protected Areas which contributed to the collection of Integrated Protected Area Fund amounting to Php 9,059,684.3. Despite of the limitations caused by the pandemic and natural calamities, the region remains steadfast in implementing programs and projects that aims to provide a livable and sustainable communities. These programs include the Water Security Program, Clean Air and Water Program, Solid Waste Management Program, Land Disposition Program, Geohazard Mapping, Vulnerablity Assessment and Groundwater Resources Assessment. It is worth mentioning the efforts and the invaluable contributions of our partner agencies and stakeholders, particularly the National Government Agencies, Local Government Units (LGUs), Private Organizations, and the concerned local communities in these undertakings. Our success for the year would not have been possible without them. Indeed, Region 2 remained steadfast in its commitment to the pursuit of the Department’s thrust toward sustainable development. Indeed, the Region was confronted with difficulties and struggles in the wake of the pandemic. Nevertheless, it gave opportunities to innovate, formulate strategies and identify prospects towards a more efficient and effective program/project implementation in the year ahead.

PRIORITY PROGRAMS 5 ENSURE FOOD SECURITY a. NATIONAL GREENING PROGRAM The National Greening Program (NGP), being one of the priority programs of the government of the Philippines which aims to reduce poverty; promote food security, environmental stability, and biodiversity conservation; and enhance climate change mitigation and adaptation. As a nation and a guardian of nature, our main objective is to track the goals of environmental development. It is a known fact that the natural resources of the world have been decreasing at a faster rate every year. As a result, critical issues such as climate change and global warming became predictable crisis. In order to at least lessen the effect of these problems, the government is employing various possible measures such as implementing significant programs that aim to rehabilitate the country’s natural resources. One of these is the National Greening Program (NGP) by virtue of Executive Order (EO) No. 26 series of 2011. The NGP was implemented through the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) being the lead agency. The program was considered to be this decades’ largest forest rehabilitation effort of the government which envisages to regain the original forest cover of the country. Additionally, the program addresses poverty alleviation, food security, biodiversity conservation and climate change mitigation and adaptation. This was ended last 2016 but was extended until 2028 following the issuance of Executive Order No. 193 otherwise known as the Enhanced National Greening Program (eNGP). To better improve the outcomes of the project, one of the relevant features of eNGP is the enhancement and encouragement of the private sectors, local government units, organized upland communities, and other stakeholders’ participation in the sustainable management of the developed plantations and protection of the existing forests. To recognize these works, incentives and other appropriate arrangements are being given to the participants to ensure the sustainability of the program. The conduct of Information, Education Communication (IEC) campaign is important in the implementation of the program to understand the details of the program and thier responsibilities. This aims to strengthen partnership and assures the commitment of PO’s/partners and to bring closer the concept and objectives of the program which is a contributory factor for the success of the project. For CY 2022, through effective IEC, the participation of Peoples’ Organization with 733 family beneficiaries were encouraged and further strengthened as manifested by the signed Memorandum of Agreements. Ayangan Dapiz Agroforestry Development Association, 130 hectares plantation, Bautista, San Agustin, Isabela

ENSURE FOOD SECURITY 6 The partners will implement the complete site development of the identified sites to include activities on seedling production, plantation establishment and three (3) years maintenance and protection activities to ensure the good quality and high survival rate of the plantation established. The partners are also compliant to the requirements and qualifications set in the guidelines for community participation. The qualifications are as follows: - Duly registered association with a registering body such as the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) - Resolution/Minutes of the Meeting approving the implementation of the project by the member of the organization; and -An active bank account Table 1 No. of LOAs/MOAs contracted by Peoples Organization, Region 2, CY 2020-2022 PENRO/CENRO YEAR TOTAL 2022 2021 2020 MOAs Family Involved BATANES 3 3 CAGAYAN 7 287 429 436 Alcala 2 52 81 83 Aparri 2 88 133 135 Sanchez Mira 104 104 Solana 1 45 37 38 Tuguegarao 2 102 74 76 ISABELA 3 136 282 32 317 Cabagan 1 36 45 7 53 Cauayan 54 2 56 Naguilian 1 74 95 9 105 Palanan 9 2 11 Roxas 25 11 36 San Isidro 1 26 54 1 56 NUEVA VIZCAYA 3 78 143 26 172 Aritao 1 50 78 10 89 Bayombong 1 18 34 11 46 Dupax 1 10 31 5 37 QUIRINO 9 232 773 175 957 Diffun 3 113 430 158 591 Nagtipunan 6 119 343 17 366 TOTAL 22 733 1,630 233 1,885 24-hectare National Greening Program (NGP) plantation at Sitio Gattac, Darubba in Quezon, Nueva Vizcaya.

PRIORITY PROGRAMS 7 b. COMMUNITY-BASED FOREST MANAGEMENT A two-day Regional Community-Based Forest Management-People’s Organizations (CBFM-PO) Summit cum Trade Fair organized by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in region 2 was successfully conducted on September 22-23, 2022 at the Cagayan State University Andrews Gymnasium, Caritan, Tuguegarao City. The event was divided into three (3) main segments: (1) CBFM presentations and discussions; (2) a RED’s Hour devoted to address issues and concerns in the implementation of CBFM program; and (3) the exhibition and sale of various agroforestry and timber products of the participating CBFM-POs. The activity was attended and participated by 103 CBFM-PO President or Chairpersons, 26 DENR CBFM Coordinators, and guests from the different government agencies in the region. + Also, DENR Region 2 has recognized Don Mariano Perez Consumer’s Cooperative (DMPCC), a People’s Organization (PO) in Diffun, Quirino, as 2022 best CommunityBased Forest Management (CBFM) implementer. Awarded during the CBFM Regional PO Summit cum Trade Fair on Sept. 22 in Tuguegarao City, the DMPCC bested over 100 CBFM organizations in the region after garnering 96% performance rating based on Forest Management Bureau (FMB) Technical Bulletin No. 18 known as “Documentation of Good Practices in Forest Resource Management.” The selection criteria focus on the CBFM project impacts in environmental, economic, and social aspects. The CBFM is implemented as a national strategy to achieve sustainable forestry and social justice as embodied in Executive Order No. 263 s. 1995. DENR Regional Executive Director Gwendolyn Bambalan highlighted that one of the CBFM objectives is to increase the income of upland communities through livelihood activities that support the enhancement of our natural resources as she commended the PO members for the gains of the project through their good practices for over 2 decades. The DMPCC has been helping the community to uplift its economic condition through enterprise development and agroforestry establishment. Among other recognized CBFM POs sustaining forest management good practices were Federation of Vista Hills, Kalongkong, and Kakilingan Upland Farmers Assosciation, Inc. in Nueva Vizcaya; Tumauini Upland Farmers Greeners Association, Inc. in Isabela; and Three Diamonds Upland Farmers and Developers Association in Cagayan. Don Mariano Perez Consumer’s Cooperative (DMPCC), a People’s Organization (PO) in Diffun, Quirino, as 2022 best Community-Based Forest Management (CBFM) implementer.

ENSURE FOOD SECURITY 8 Director Bambalan encouraged the PO forest managers to prepare for the evolving challenges in CBFM implementation brought about by climate change. She said the CBFM is one of the programs that support the President’s call to improve agricultural productivity through agroforestry plantation establishment. The regional environment chief also directed technical field officials to extend assistance to the POs for a science-based crop production as climate change mitigating measure. “We need to adapt to the new climate situation. We have to revisit the kind of crops we plant and follow planting calendar,” she advised. In his message, FMB Director Tirso Parian said the bureau is currently updating the CBFM strategic plan for CY 2023-2032 to review programs and policies that are suitable for and adaptable to the changing climate. Meanwhile, Undersecretary for Field Operations and Environment Juan Miguel Cuna thanked the POs for supporting the DENR not only in enriching the environment but also in improving the country’s economic development through their livelihood activities. Aside from exchanging forest resource management good practices during the summit, the POs were equipped with organizational and marketing strategies to further empower their associations. A specialist from the Department of Trade and Industry taught the participants on packaging development, labeling of products, and other marketing strategies; while Yakap Kalikasan Tungo sa Kaunlaran ng Pilipinas, Inc. Project Development Director strengthened the POs by teaching them on how to develop a resilient and more functional CBFM-PO governance. In the two-day summit, a trade fair was launched showcasing various products such as fruits, vegetables, furnitures, handicrafts, softbrooms, coffee, fruit wine, and other processed goods in support of the organizations’ livelihood. The Summit was also graced by Cagayan State University President Urdujah Alvarado, National Economic and Development Authority Regional Director Dionisio Ledres Jr., representatives from other government agencies and local government units and DENR officials and personnel

PRIORITY PROGRAMS 9 c. COASTAL AND MARINE ECOSYSTEMS MANAGEMENT PROGRAM Biodiversity-Friendly Social Enterprise Component Region 2 was able to extend necessary technical assistance to a total of nine people’s organizations (POs) within the region: two in BPLS; two in PIPLS; two in PPLS and three in NSMNP. Appraisal activity, rapid assessment and conduct of trainings were undertaken to enhance the capacity of these POs. The table below presents the summary of regional accomplishments for the whole year. Table 10: Summary of BDFE Accomplishment in Region 2 NSMNP Brgy. Bicobian, Divilacan Isabela Divilacan Handicraf t Association Handicraft Y Y Y Y Y -Conducted consultation meetings (2022) -Conducted business planning workshop (2022) -Conducted packaging and labelling workshop (2022) -Conducted Community Organizing and Leadership Training (2022) Brgy. Dimapula, Divilacan, Isabela Bilai-Ikan Association Fish processin g Y Y Y Y Y -Conducted consultation meetings (2022) -Conducted business planning workshop (2022) -Conducted packaging and labelling workshop (2022) -Conducted Community Organizing and Leadership Training (2022) Centro West, Palanan, Isabela Sabutan Weavers Association Handicraft Y Y Y Y Y -DOT enhancement training on sabutan weaving (2022) PA/Location of PO Name of PO Type of Enterprise Masterlist (Y/N) Rapid Assessmen t Score PO Profiled (Y/N) PO Inventory (Y/N) Ecological Impact Form (Y/N) Apprais ed (Y/N) Assistance Provided (Year) BPLS Brgy. Sumnanga, Sabtang, Batanes United Sumnang a Civic Organizat ion (USCO) Handicraft making out of coconut midribs and nito Y 85 Y Y Y Y -Business Planning Workshop (2022) -Training on Financial Management (2022) Brgy, Radiwan, Ivana, Batanes Infant Young Child FeedingBSG Seaweed chips and noodle making Y 85 Y Y Y Y -Training on Seaweed Processing (2022) -Business Planning Workshop (2022) -Training on Financial Management (2022) PIPLS Punta Verde, Palaui Island, Brgy. San Vicente, Sta. Ana, Cagayan Palaui Environmental Protector s Association 1. Pandanweaving; 2. Culinary enterprise/ catering services; 3. Tour guiding; and 4. Reef guiding Y PW – 89 Cul – 96 TG – 85 RG – 90 Y Y Y Y -Conducted training on basic bookkeeping (2022) -Assistance in securing permit documents (2022) Punta Verde, Palaui Island, Brgy. San Vicente, Sta. Ana, Cagayan Agta Digit Association - Y N Y N N -Conducted meeting with Franciscan Apostolic Sisters to coordinate with the PO (2022) PPLS So. Bagui Pt., Brgy. Lapi, Baguio Pt. Upland Farmers Handicraft making out of rattan, nito Y Y Y N N - Conducted reorganization (2022)

ENSURE FOOD SECURITY 10 Conduct of Consultation Meeting with Infant and Young Child Breastfeeding Support Group (IYCF-BSG) A consultation meeting was conducted with IYCF-BSG on January 12, 2022 at the MSWD Office Conference Hall in Radiwan, Ivana, Batanes. The activity was to inform the members on the funding of the project proposal by the organization. Since the financial assistance awarded was downloaded to the bank account of DENR PENRO Batanes, the organization was advised to open an account carrying the name of the PO for official purposes. The president, Ms. Lani Barbara Vaso committed to open an account for the use of the organization. The work and financial plan for the financial assistance was also presented. They were advised to conduct market research in the procurement of the equipment stated in their plan. Other activity stated in the plan is the conduct of educational tour outside the province, however, due to lack of fund and the present condition due to the pandemic, it has been agreed that the fund allotted for the activity will be used for the procurement of projectors, sound system, filing cabinets and other essential fixtures to be used in the processing center. Remaining funds for the purpose of the tour were also suggested to be utilized for the conduct of hands-on training to innovate other products using seaweeds. Consultation Meeting with United Sumnanga Civic Organization (USCO) A consultation meeting was conducted on February 16, 2022 at USCO Roundhouse in Sumnanga, Sabtang. The following are the discussions during the meeting: • Brief appraisal on the status of USCO enterprise during the pandemic • Updated organizational profile • Status of MOA between USCO and BLGU regarding the lease of parcel land • Improvement of USCO Roundhouse • Scarcity of raw materials for handicraft making It was mentioned by the PO president that they acquired weaving techniques from previous trainings and their products will be available when they will be provided with the requested raw materials. Training on Introduction to Seaweed Culture and Post-Harvest Handling for Infant and Young Child Feeding- Breastfeeding Support Group cum Second Quarter Monitoring Training on introduction to seaweed culture and post-harvest handling for IYCFBSG was conducted on June 2-3, 2022 at the Municipal Conference Hall, Ivana, Batanes. PENR Batanes invited a learning service provider Mr. Rolando C. Andres of BFAR regional office.

PRIORITY PROGRAMS 11 Second quarter monitoring was also conducted through monitoring of the utilization of the granted financial assistance specifically the procurement of materials needed for the processing of seaweed chips and noodles. Financial Management Training for United Sumnanga Civic Organization PENR Batanes provided assistance in the enhancement of USCO through the conduct of Financial Management Training on June 2022 to equip the PO with technical knowledge on financial book keeping and preparation of comprehensive annual financial reports. The learning service provider for this training is the accountant of PENRO Batanes Ms. April Faye B. Tangonan, CPA. Ms. Tangonan presented less complicated financial statement format for easier comprehension of the audience. She discussed the use of TAccount format as an easy tool for the presentation of gains and expenses incurred by the enterprise. As an output of the training, USCO prepared a simple financial statement covering the months of January to June 2022 which will be submitted to the BDFE focal person. Conduct of training on seaweed processing and post-harvest handling Conduct of training on financial management for USCO

ENSURE FOOD SECURITY 12 Training on Financial Management for IYCF-BSG The training is conducted to capacitate the officers on the preparation and management of financial reports which was conducted at the Ivana Municipal Civil Registrar Office. It was participated in by ten officers of IYCG-BSG, the learning service provider is Ms. April Faye Tangonan, accountant of the PENRO Batanes. The LSP shared here knowledge on simple financial recording which include the following topics: overview of financial terminologies, journal and t-balance entry, financial statement, cash/financial positioning, trial balance and cash flow. Business Planning Workshop cum 3rd Quarter Monitoring for USCO and IYCF-BSG Business Planning Workshop was conducted for IYCF-BSG and USCO on August 3 and 11, 2022 with the following objectives: • To capacitate the PO members on business planning; • To thresh out issues and concerns encountered during the utilization of financial assistance of IYCF-BSG; • To follow-up the liquidation report on the utilization of financial assistance of IYCF-BSG; • To thresh put issues and concerns regarding business permits and registrations for USCO; and • To discuss possible technical support that the DENR may provide to the Pos The training was conducted in Ivana Municipal Hall for IYCF-BSG while in Sumnanga, Sabtang for USCO. Engr. Fausto L. Rico who attended the Business Planning Workshop hosted by the Biodiversity Management Bureau facilitated the event. The following topics were discusses: business development services, business and entrepreneurship, personal entrepreneurial competencies and outline and parts of a business plan. Photo 46: Conduct of Financial Management Training in Ivana Municipal Civil Registrar

PRIORITY PROGRAMS 13 BMB BDFE Core Group Validation for PEPA The Biodiversity Management Bureau conducted BDFE validation in Palaui Island Protected Landscape and Seascape with the Palaui Environmental Protectors Association. The following are the result of validation: Enterprise Recommendation PEPA- mother organization • Training on financial management; • Training on bookkeeping (at least 2 members); • Cross visit with other POs with the same enterprise to strengthen and broaden their knowledge and adopt their best practices. Pandan weaving • Training on product development (design); • Training on operating electric sewing machine Reef guide • Training on open water diving (at least 2 members); Photo 47: Conduct of Business Planning Workshop for IYCF-BSG and USCO

ENSURE FOOD SECURITY 14 Enterprise Recommendation • First aid training; and • Training on bookkeeping. Catering/Culinary • Training on proper meal handling and preparation; and • Conduct quarterly inventory of tools and equipment or as necessary Tour Guide • Refresher on tour guiding; • Standard First Aid Training Refresher; • Recruit younger members for continuity; and • Advise to use biodigester for the food waste. The result of validation will serve as basis in the provision of assistance that will be provided to PEPA for the third and fourth quarters of CY 2022. Meeting with Franciscan Apostolic Sisters for Agta Diget Association Discussion for Agta Diget Association with Sister Mini with regards to the registration of the association to the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). As the association is already registered, a proposal for a business was formulated, the following were conceived as viable enterprises for the association: • Development of Eco-tourism site as such the Agta Museum, where it would showcase a cultural exchange to non-agtas on the different cultural practices of Agtas through IEC, photos, videos and role playing. • Development of Indigenous Culinary Dishes To fully equip the association in implementing the proposal, a training was proposed and provision of equipment as start-up for the association is needed. Training on simple bookkeeping to some PEPA members Through the suggestion of bMB BDFE validation team, some of the members were capacitated in simple bookkeeping to record the association’s cash flow and in order to clearly track their income and losses. Conduct of meeting with Sister Mini of Agta Diget Association

PRIORITY PROGRAMS 15 Ms. Racianne Cabatbat, Credit Officer of CENRO Aparri served as the learning service provider. The training was conducted on October 26, 2022 and was participated by the secretaries, treasurers and auditors of the association. Discussion include recording cash receipts from everyday transactions, cash donations and property donations, as well as recording of the daily expenses, cash outs and other disbursement. Through recording cash receipts and cash disbursement monthly, it will be easier to track if the association/business has profited or not. Lastly, to measure if the participants had understood the process of recording cash receipts and disbursement each livelihoof program of the association were givern situational task. It was agreed that records will be checked monthly as a form of monitoring. Formal Meeting with Agta Diget Association The Agta Diget is an association of Agta, an indigenous people, in PIPLS. On November 11, 2022, the group had their regular monthly meeting together with the assistance of the Franciscan Apostolic Sisters. During that time, the concept of BDFE was introduced to the Association for their enterprise development and tapping other government agencies for technical assistance. The possibility to apply for financial grant was also discussed. With their profile, the Association has members of 38 families, and it is already registered at the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). On pre-discussion made, a proposal in establishment of a circuit tour package was discussed to the members, wherein the package was composed of orientation of their origin, museum tour, culinary, and cultural show only on Saturdays. The Association will have to finalized yet their proposed enterprise aside from their existing honey products and home stay enterprise. Conduct of simple bookkeeping training Conduct of meeting with Agta Diget Association

ENSURE FOOD SECURITY 16 Baguio Point Upland Farmers and Forest Protectors Association Personnel from PENR Sub-Office Cagayan conducted meeting and focus group discussion and provided technical assistance by presenting and liquidation their finances as well as in strengthening their association through reorganization. Re-election of a new slate of officers was conducted, the goal of the re-election is to strengthen and empower the members to be more productive, effective and efficient in preparation for the activities of the PO. Chief Tito Mangantulao will discuss each of the function of the officers in the next meeting. Also, the CMEMP focal person Siony F. Bambalan reminded the members of their obligation and responsibilities. She emphasized that members should be proactive and empowered. She encouraged the members to be more vigilant in monitoring of any illegal activities within their jurisdiction as they are blessed with so much resources in their area. Finally, the members of the association committed to protect and conserve the natural resources for their children and for future generations. They also vowed to regularly patrol and be proactive in monitoring their coastal and forest resources to prevent from any illicit activities. Sta. Marina-Baguio Point Fisherfolk Association Some of the members signified their interest in rattan weaving and soft broom production. Conduct of meeting with the members of POs within PPLS Conduct of re-election of Baguio Point Upland Farmers Association

PRIORITY PROGRAMS 17 Provision of tools to Bicobian Weavers Association To ensure the safety of the members in gathering raw materials and ease the challenge in creating products, the officials of Bicobian Weavers Association requested tools and equipment from the BDFE facilitators. The tools and equipment were purchased in the first quarter of 2022 and was distributed in February through the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office of Divilacan. BWA was also able to register and open a bank account that could ease the process and downloads of future grants needed for the4 development of the organization. CENR Office of Palanan also asked assistance from certified public accountants for the formulation of Business Plans for BWA and Bilai-Ikan Association. The business plan template provided in DAO 2021-13 will be the basis in the formulation of the business plans. The plans will be used as guide for the proper utilization of future funds, marketing strategies development and identification of financial assumptions and trainings. The following are the list of tools awarded: Table 36: List of Equipment and Materials Awarded to BWA Item Unit Quantity Boots Pairs 10 Gloves Pairs 15 Cutter Pieces 10 Prunning Shears Pieces 10 Carbonrundun Pieces 5 Knife Pieces 10 Torch Connector Pieces 4 Spray Gun Pieces 4 Varnish mL 3- 950 mL Awarded materials and equipment to BWA

ENSURE FOOD SECURITY 18 Conduct of meeting with Bilai-Ikan Association The Bilai-Ikan Association (BIA) was provided with financial assistance in CY 2018. The grant was designed to support the establishment of the fish processing center located in Dimapula, Divilacan, Isabela. BIA conducted assembly meeting to discuss issues and concerns summarized in the table below. ACTIVITY STATUS ACTION TO BE TAKEN Improvement of the OTOP building The association decided to utilize their budget by purchasing plywood for the ceiling, tiles for the floor and paint for the improvement of the OTOP. However, there was a conflict with the number of improvements allotted since LGU Divilacan has allotted budget for the OTOP building which also needs to be utilized. The DENR personnel advised the association to make a draft of Memorandum of Agreement Operation of Bilai-Ikan Association Due to pandemic, the production of BIA was halted. This year, the association was able to resume production of smoked fish or tinapa and were able to package their bagoong on June 3, 2022 The personnel advised the association to sustain their fish processing and production to attain high profit since the season of their raw materials was already on the peak season Members and product of BIA

PRIORITY PROGRAMS 19 Monitoring of Bicobian Weavers Association Team from CENR Palanan conducted monitoring on Bicobian Weavers Association on May 6-7, 2022. Prior to the meeting, the association attended a training sprearheaded by the Department of Industry wherein it was mentioned that an elected association officer/member must be knowledgeable in handicraft. Thus, some of the members decided to leave the group. A meeting was organized to provide clarification on the matter. EMS II Cherish Holongbayan mentioned that their association has its own rules and regulation with regards to membership and officer election. Formulation of BDFE Business Plan BIA established in 2018, was awarded with a financial grant on the same year. Meanwhile, BWA was formed on CY 2021 and is planning to apply for a financial grant to support their handicraft weaving enterprise. A business plan is a document that defines in detail a company’s objective, and how it plans to achieve its goals (Investopedia.com accessed on September 2022). The plan aims to develop all the procedure and strategies necessary to improve an enterprise or business, or to convert the business opportunity into and actual business project. It shall act as a guide for BIA and BWA in identifying the activities needed for the improvement of their associations, properly manage awarded financial assistance, and apply for future financial support from other organizations. With this, a set of consultation meetings and trainings were conducted on August and September 2022 with CENRO Palanan BDFE Facilitators, LGU Divilacan – Cooperative Development Office (CDO) Representatives, and Officers, members, and board of directors of BIA and BWA. Summary of activities conducted is presented below: Meeting with members of BWA

ENSURE FOOD SECURITY 20

PRIORITY PROGRAMS 21 Community Organizing and Leadership Training The CMEMP – BDFE component aims to capacitate, improve economic activities, and provide income and equal opportunity to communities while protecting and conserving the environment and its natural resources. However, necessary groundworks are needed to ensure readiness of the people’s organization (POs) to manage and sustain their identified livelihood programs. Thus, Community Organizing and Leadership Training (COLT) program was organized to offer partner-POs the opportunity to gain experience, knowledge, and skills to become stronger and enterprising community leaders. The COLT program is a four (4)-day activity organized to develop committed and capable leaders with strong conviction for good governance and management, and enhance the knowledge base, skill sets and desired attitude of PO leaders for improved governance and management towards biodiversity-friendly enterprises. Two POs supported by DENR- CENRO Palanan and two POs supported by LGU Divilacan namely, Bilai-Ikan Association (BIA), Bicobian Weavers Association (BWA), Ditarum Lady Farmers Association (DLFA) and Dipudo Fisherfolks Association (DFA), participated in the activity. The participants were trained on different techniques and methods of community organizing, leadership, and effective communication. They were also capacitated on how to handle a good facilitation and documentation during small group meeting including how to take or record a minute of meeting on different process. Department of Tourism Enhancement Training on Sabutan Weaving The Department of Tourism (DOT) Region 02 conducted a 3-days workshop training entitle “Enhancing Sabutan as Part of the Palanan Tourism Related Livelihood and Experiences for the Palanan Upstream Women Weavers Association and Sabutan Weavers Association” on July 25-27, 2022 at Palanan, Isabela. The training aims to enhance the knowledge and upgrade the skills to upscale the existing sabutan weaving industry towards a tourism respondent woven product and to maximize the income and benefits of Palanan community. It was participated by members from both association, as well as various agencies such as the DENR- CENRO Palananan. Conduct of Community Organizing and Leadership Training

ENSURE FOOD SECURITY 22 It’s an important activity since the Office is implementing the Biodiversity Friendly Enterprise (BDFE), under the Coastal and Marine Ecosystem Management Program (CMEMP), which aims to provide livelihood to communities while promoting conservation and sustainable use of natural resources, wherein the Sabutan Weavers Association is enrolled. Through the enhancement training on sabutan weaving, it was observed that the lack of basic knowledge and understanding of an effective organization causes problems which affects the performance of the associations despite and exporting products to municipalities outside Palanan, and established name in handicraft and weaving industry within the region. The activity concluded with both associations awarded with weaving kits and four (4) weaving machine to ease and hasten their production process. Conduct of DOT training on Sabutan Weaving

PRIORITY PROGRAMS 23 a. Improving bureaucratic efficiency a.1 Program to Institutionalize Meritocracy and Excellence in Human Resource Management (PRIME-HRM) The Civil Service Commission (CSC) has recognized the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Region 2 for obtaining Maturity Level 2 in four core areas of Program to Institutionalize Meritocracy and Excellence in Human Resource Management (PRIME-HRM). These core areas include recruitment, selection and placement; learning and development; performance management; and rewards and recognition. In her message during the recent awarding ceremony, Regional Executive Director (RED) Gwendolyn Bambalan of DENR expressed her gratitude to the Commission for the accreditation of the Department’s PRIME-HRM Maturity Level II or process defined in all core areas. She emphasized that having an excellent human resource is an assurance of excellent service delivery to the people. “I believe in the power of PRIME-HRM to transform public service. We uphold innovative, strategic and more systematic human resource management programs to fulfill our obligation to conserve and develop our natural resources,” Director Bambalan said. Under the leadership of RED Bambalan, the Department has crafted customized guidelines and mechanisms to ensure equality, diversity, fairness and transparency in recruitment, selection and placement. Human resource interventions through learning and development program were provided for continuous improvement on performance where all employees are given at least one learning and development intervention per year. The performance of the offices from the region down to the field and the performance of every individual is regularly assessed and monitored. ENSURE SOUND MACROECONOMIC FUNDAMENTALS

ENSURE SOUND MACROECONOMIC FUNDAMENTALS 24 Through the rewards and recognition program, outstanding and high performing employees are recognized. Aside from these milestones, DENR Region 2 developed automated systems to promote transparency and improve efficiency at work. “We in the DENR Region 2 will remain steadfast in our pursuit for excellent human resource management to provide the highest quality of service to the public,” the regional environment chief emphasized. The awarding of the certificate of recognition was held during the 2022 Parangal at Pasasalamat Regional Recognition Rites of the CSC in celebration of its 122nd Anniversary graced by CSC Commissioner Atty. Ryan Alvin Acosta. DENR Region 2 is one of the16 agencies and local government units accredited for HR Maturity Level 2. Joining the RED during the awarding ceremony were Assistant Regional Executive Director Ismael Manaligod and Administrative Division Chief Patricia Liban. PRIME-HRM is a mechanism that empowers government agencies by developing their human resource management competencies, systems, and practices toward HR excellence. It entails greater engagement not just of the human resource management officer but also of the officials and the rank-and-file employees of the agency. a.2 Conduct of Client Satisfaction Survey The Client Satisfaction Survey (CSS) is a Feedback mechanism which aim to gauge the level of satisfaction of customers on the service/s availed at the Office in terms of responsiveness, reliability, access and facilities, communication, costs, integrity, assurance and outcome. There are two types of Clients being catered by our Office. Employees coming from other Offices, private individuals, NGOs, and those representing their Business are considered External Clients while employees of our own Agency coming to our Office to transact business with us are considered Internal Clients. The conduct of the survey for External clients is in the Form of a Questionnaire where clients may opt to give their Feedback on the quality of service rendered by our Office. For those coming to inquire, seek advice or follow up, they may accomplish the Feedback Form. Client Satisfaction Survey Form is for those clients who availed of our service and have received the finished product, be it a Certification, Check Issued, Documents, Permits, etc.

PRIORITY PROGRAMS 25 For Internal clients which are our personnel, they may undergo the Survey by connecting to the link duly provided. The result of the CSS shall be the basis to further improve the services offered by the Office both for the internal and external clients. a.3 Streamlining and Process Improvement of Critical Services (SPICS) In line with DENR MC No. 2020-09 “Guidelines on the Ranking of Delivery Units for Grant of FY 2020 Performance Based Bonus and MC No. 2019-001 or the IRR of RA No. 11032, otherwise known as the “Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Delivery Act of 2018”, we are then required to Streamline Critical Services and Improve those Processes as contained in the DENR’s Citizen’s Charter. A total of fifteen (15) processes contained in the Citizen’s Charter plus additional nineteen (19) processes of Critical Services served to clients were enrolled for SPICs. Biannual report of this activity is submitted to the Regional Office for validation prior to submission to higher authorities. During the 5-day training/workshop, participants were provided an in-depth understanding on the ISO 9001:2008 QMS concepts, principles, and requirements; Guidelines in developing the structure and format of DENR’s QMS Documentation; and ISO mandatory procedures. a.4 Quality Management System Government offices are making necessary internal improvements in compliance to Executive Order No. 605, s. 2007 as one of the National Competitiveness Summit (NCS) Agenda to effect actual improvements in public governance by adopting the ISO 9001:2008 Quality Management Systems as part of the implementation of a government-wide quality management program. The DENR has made its first step to comply with the creation of its own QMS. As the Pilot province representing Region, our personnel attended numerous training courses which were conducted by the Central Office and Regional Office. This resulted to our Certification last 2019. Another validation purposely for recertification not only of our Office but for the whole DENR nationwide was conducted last 2021 which turn out to positive result. With our re-certification last year, under ISO 9001: 2015 our Office endeavors to improve more our Quality Management System thru review of QMS required Documentation and ISO Mandatory procedures. Moreover, our personnel have been sent to training for more in depth understanding of Quality Management System.

PURSUE BLUE AND GREEN ECONOMY 26 PURSUE A BLUE AND GREEN ECONOMY Coastal and Marine Ecosystems Management Program (CMEMP) The Coastal and Marine Ecosystems Management Program (CMEMP) or Agos ng Buhay concludes its 6th year of implementation by successfully accomplishing all the targeted activities set for CY 2021 under its seven components, namely: Marine Protected Area Network (MPAN) Establishment and Strengthening; Biodiversity-Friendly Social Enterprise; Capacity Building; Knowledge Management; Technical Assistance; Social Marketing and Mobilization/ Communication, Education and Public Awareness (CEPA); and Monitoring and Evaluation. These activities were conducted within the four National Integrated Protected Areas System Marine Protected Areas (NIPAS MPAs), namely: Batanes Protected Landscapes and Seascapes (BPLS); Palaui Island Protected Landscape and Seascape (PIPLS); Peñablanca Protected Landscape and Seascape (PPLS); and Norther Sierra Madre Natural Park (NSMNP). Under Component 1 (MPAN Establishment and Strengthening), a total of 711.33 hectares of coral reefs, 153.11 hectares of seagrass and 77 hectares of mangroves were assessed and mapped by all implementing PENROs and CENROs regionwide. Water quality monitoring was also undertaken to all NIPAS MPAs for wet and dry seasons. Further, the two established MPA networks, the Ivatan Marine Protected Area Network and Northeastern Isabela Coastal Enforcement Network in BPLS and NSMNP, respectively have conducted milestone activities under the establishment and strengthening phase of MPA networking. Maintenance and protection activities such as conduct of patrolling, habitats survey/threats observation, maintenance of equipment and direct activities, and approval of response plans were also successfully carried out. For BDFE component, enhancement training activities were undertaken for the Infant and Youngchild Feeding/ Breastfeeding Support Group and United Sumnanga Civic Organization in BPLS; Palaui Environmental Protectors Association in PIPLS; Bilai-Ikan Association, Divilacan Handicrafts Association and Sabutan Weavers Association in NSMNP. Meanwhile, a rapid assessment was conducted to the Baguio Point Upland Farmers and Forest Protectors Association in PPLS. Series of meetings and focus group discussions were also done with the members of the people’s organizations (POs) to leveloff on BDFE-related concerns while activities such as trainings, provision of materials for their enterprises were conducted as part of the enhancement of the PO enterprises. To intensify and strengthen the capacities of the implementers in the conduct of water quality monitoring and assessment of coastal and marine ecosystems, 17 implementers (7 Female; 10 Male) underwent the training on water quality monitoring and assessment. Moreover, 19 (9-F; 10-M) participated in the five-day Geographic Information

PRIORITY PROGRAMS 27 System (GIS) Training and Database Management. Apart from these major learning events targeted for this year, several trainings/ workshops were also attended by the regional and field implementers, i.e. Water Quality Monitoring, MPA Network Consultation and Networking, Cascading of Technical Bulletin 2022-02 and Gender and Development Training, among others. Results on the assessment of coastal habitats were integrated in the CMEMP Agos Database. Other data were also uploaded to the Google Drive link provided by the BMB under the Knowledge Management component. Technical assistance was also provided to all local government units regionwide on coastal and marine related concerns while two LGUs were assisted with the implementation of activities indicated in their respective Strategic Plans under the MPA network establishment. These locally-managed MPAs are Gonzaga Marine Protected Area Development Federation and Sta. Praxedes-Claveria Marine Protected Area Network, both in the province of Cagayan. Additionally, preparatory activities under technical assistance on mainstreaming Integrated Coastal Management to local government units’ Comprehensive Land Use Plans such as ENR profiling, ground truthing of river systems and creation of regional technical working group for the purpose. For the Social Marketing and Mobilization, several IEC campaigns and promotional activities were undertaken to promote the Program. These include the conduct of citizen science, Kampo Kalikasan para sa Kabataan and Youth Congress. Special events such as Month of the Ocean, Coral Triangle Initiative Day and International Coastal Cleanup Day were also celebrated by the PENROs and CENROs all over the region. To keep track on the targets for this year, continuous monitoring and evaluation of accomplishments were conducted by the Regional Office and PENR Offices. A total of nine coastal extension officers were also hired to complement the manpower of the regional and field offices. Water Quality Training conducted by CRFMS on March 21- 25, 2022 at Country Inn, Sta. Ana, Cagayan. Training on Geographical Information System Mapping and Database Management conducted by CRFMS on March 28- April 1, 2022 at DENR Regional Office, Carig Sur, Tuguegarao City

PURSUE BLUE AND GREEN ECONOMY 28 Enhanced Biodiversity Conservation PAMB Meetings Protected Area Management Board meetings were held to discuss concerns and issues relative the management of their protected areas. A total of 52 meetings were conducted with 148 resolutions reviewed and passed. PAMB meetings were conducted through face-to-face, virtual and blended platform. (Table 1) Table 1: List of PAs and number of PAMB Meetings conducted. Name of PA Number of Meetings conducted Number of Approved Resolutions 1. BPLS 5 33 2. PIPLS 4 14 3. PPLS 1 4. BWFR 4 13 5. WWFR 6. MPL 4 12 7. FSNP 4 4 8. NSMNP 4 17 9. TWNP 4 9 10. QPL 4 7 11. BHNP 5 7 12. SNM 5 12 13. DWFR 4 10 14. CPL 4 10 TOTAL 52 148 The minutes of the regular and special meetings were reviewed by this Office and endorsed to the Secretary giving emphasis the salient points as well as agreements on conservation and protection, ecotourism developments, cave and wetland management and other issues and concerns within the PA. (Photo 7) Unified PAMB Meeting A unified PAMB Meeting in the province of Nueva Vizcaya was conducted on November 29, 2022 wherein the PAMB of four PAs were convened namely: Casecnan Protected Landscape (CPL), Salinas Natural Monument (SNM), Bangan Hill National Park (BHNP) and Dupax Watershed Forest Reserve (DWFR). Figure 1. PAMB Meetings were conducted through face to face, virtual or blended platforms

PRIORITY PROGRAMS 29 RED Bambalan underscored on putting value to natural resources, which is one way to conserve PAs'. She also emphasized the importance of valuing the environment and natural resources as one strategic initiative to counter environmental threats and abuses. The PAMB chairperson lauded the support and cooperation of the Board constituting the CPL, SNM, BHNP and DWFR. These Protected Areas (PAs) in the province contribute the region's enhanced watershed resources and sustainable ecotourism serving as one of the major solutions to climate change. Part of park protection and conservation measures within the PAs are development and improvement of facilities and natural attractions that tourists would enjoy such as view deck, garden and forest landscapes, creative pathways, information center, comfort rooms, cottages, water falls, springs, diverse flora and fauna, and other scenic spots and facilities. In the meeting, Protected Areas Superintendents (PASus) presented the status and implementation of their respective ecotourism management plans; proposed projects and programs to be funded from the Integrated Protected Area Fund (IPAF); and intervention on communication, education, and public awareness campaign. The regional environment chief ordered an orderly and organized operation flow within the PA by passing a resolution endorsing to the PAMB guidelines on collection of fees and charges specifically for entrance and ecological services. She also instructed the PASus to include in their plan the establishment or improvement of a Protected Area Management Office per legislated PA as mandated in Republic Act No. 11038 or the Expanded National Integrated Protected Area System (ENIPAS) Act of 2018 which amended RA 7586 known as the National Integrated Protected Areas System Act of 1992. The meeting also discussed monitoring and regulation of PA natural resource user's fee and to encourage them to apply for appropriate tenurial instrument. Collection of fees must be properly implemented to increase the earnings deposited in the IPAF. Joining the environment officials in PA development discussions were representatives of the local government units, national government agencies, nongovernment organizations, academe, and civil society organizations. (Photo 8) Figure 2. Unified PAMB Meeting on November 29, 2022 at Lower Magat Ecotourism Park in Diadi, Nueva Vizcaya

PURSUE BLUE AND GREEN ECONOMY 30 Preparation of Ecotourism Management Plan Site Evaluation The one (1) Ecotourism Management Plan (EMP) target for this year which is the Salinas Natural Monument EMP was endorsed to Biodiversity Management Bureau this December 2022. Inventory of Existing Facilities A total 13 facilities was targeted this year for inventory with report to be submitted this 4th quarter. This year, the 13 facilities were inventoried with corresponding report submitted or equivalent to 100% accomplishment. Management of Integrated Protected Area Fund The reports on the Integrated Protected Area Fund (IPAF) were also submitted every quarter to Biodiversity Management Bureau. Accomplishment as of this year is 4 out of 4 or equivalent to 100%. Name of PA Total IPAF Collection (Php) Total No. of Visitors 1. Batanes Protected Landscape and Seascape 1,030,713.68 410 2. Palaui Island Protected Landscape and Seascape 172,160.00 3. Peñablanca Protected Landscape and Seascape 260.00 4. Northern Sierra Madre Natural Park 43,520.00 5. Tumauini Watershed Natural Park 6,762,283.55 33,565 6. Fuyot Spring National Park 84,140.25 3,533 7. Dupax Watershed Forest Reserve 1,340.00 49 8. Casecnan Protected Landscape 181,500.00 9. Bangan Hill National Park 163,939.92 10. Salinas Natural Monument 11. Quirino Protected Landscape 7,586 TOTAL 8,439,857.40 45,143 PAMO Operationalization Procurement of Equipment This year, through the capital outlay fund, the PAMO has procured four (4) units of laptop computers, 1 unit of RTK to be used for the PA boundary demarcation and one (1) unit Watercraft/Motorboat for PA habitat Protection.

PRIORITY PROGRAMS 31 Wildlife Resources Conservation Sub-Program Protection and Conservation of Wildlife Management of Wildlife Rescue Center For this year, the regional office has a target of one (1) Wildlife Center to maintain which is the Rogelio B. Baggayan Nature Park and Wildlife Center which is located at Carig Sur, Tuguegarao City, Cagayan. Other Activities The Regional Ecotourism Committee (REC) Executive Order No. 111, series of 1999 mandates the creation of National and Regional Ecotourism Committees with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the Department of Tourism (DOT) as the lead agencies having each a three-year term on rotational basis. Members include representatives from the Environment Management Bureau (MB), Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB), Provincial Local Government Units, academe, and non-government organizations (NGOs). Four regular quarterly meetings were conducted that served as an avenue for the TWG members to discuss the progress of Ecotourism activities in the region. The Ecotourism Management Plan of Salinas Natural Monument in Nueva Vizcaya was favorably endorsed by the REC via Committee Resolution No 6, Series of 2022, during its Meeting on November 7, 2022. Further, a Resolution No. 5 was also passed or the resolution expanding the membership of the REC to include the Department of Public Works and Highways, Department of Interior and Local Government and Department of Trade and Industry as committee members. REC meeting conducted through blended platform

PURSUE BLUE AND GREEN ECONOMY 32 The Regional Wildlife Management Committee (RWMC) Department Administrative Order No. 2004-55, or the DENR streamlining/procedural guidelines pursuant to the joint DENR-DA-PCSD implementing rules and regulations of Republic Act No. 9147, or the “Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act” mandates the creation of a National and Regional Wildlife Management Committees. The RWMC is being chaired by the Assistant Regional Executive Director for Technical Services, Engineer Marcos G. Dacanay. The Committee has conducted four regular meetings from first quarter to fourth quarter of Calendar Year 2022 that resulted to the realization of its accomplishment. The Regional National Integrated Protected Areas System Review Committee (RNRC) Pursuant to section 6.6.7 of the DENR Administrative Order No. 2008-06, or the revised implementing rules and regulations of RA 7586, or the National Integrated Protected Areas System Act of 1992, the RNRC was created to administer and facilitate the review and endorsement of all remaining initial components of RA No. 11038, or the ENIPAS Act of 2018 as proposed for protected area establishment. One of the proposed PA, the Palali-Mamparang Mountain Range (PMMR) in the province of Nueva Vizccaya has gone series of consultation thereby having qualified for endorsement to the Office of the Secretary for National Review and recommendation to the Office of the President. However, the Biodiversity Management Bureau has minor comments on its Initial PA Plan (IPAP). On December 15, 2022 the RNIPAS conducted its last quarter meeting via zoom and per recommendation; it is now ready for resubmission to BMB. Meanwhile, the IPAP of Fuyot Spring National Park, Dupax Watershed Forest Reserve and the proposed North Western Cagayan (NORWESCA) Protected Landscape were also presented to the RNRC on Dec 15 with the presence of commentator/critique from the National Economic and Development Authority. The IPAPs of the three PAs were returned for revision by the Regional Committee on Sustainable Development of the Regional Development Council. For CY 2022, significant accomplishment was recorded in Cagayan Valley in terms of reforestation activities conducted. Twenty-two (22) Memorandum of Agreements (MOAs) were signed with 733 families involved. Peoples Organization, Local Government Units, Modernized and Mechanized Forest Nursery, Clonal Nurseries and the compliance of the RMC 2014-01, produced a total of 2,590,581 seedlings of which our partners planted 1,089,335 indigenous forest tree seedlings and quality bamboo propagules within the 1,976 hectares. The 8,020 hectares established plantations in CY 2020-2022 were maintained and protected. Other activities include establishment/rehabilitation of fourteen (14) nurseries. These nurseries will be used to grow seedlings in compliance to RMC 2014-01. Likewise, these will be used to stock seedlings from tree cutting permittees.

PRIORITY PROGRAMS 33 For the monitoring and evaluation, field officials visited 811 sites for CY 2022. Also, 2,741 hectares were validated with an area of above 100 hectares and 2,636 hectares were validated with an area below 100 hectares. Other agencies also participated in the greening initiative of the Department. A total of 6,744 planters were engaged in the planting activities wherein 33,194 seedlings and bamboo propagules were planted within the 113.53 hectares. The 4,000 Individual Plus Trees maintained and protected are the source of indigenous seeds for the production of quality seedlings in the Modernized and Mechanized Forest Nursery and sown in the respective PENRO nurseries. Regionwide, a total of 235.99 kilograms of seed were collected. On the other hand, the ENGP has targeted Survey, Mapping and Planning within the two (2) provinces, the Province of Isabela and Cagayan wherein a total of 2,650 hectares was surveyed and assessed. Also, an additional area of 1, 607 hectares was developed under the continuing appropriations. Mining and private companies also established 573 hectares as part of their environmental obligations. As directed under the Government Accounting Manuals, all reforestation projects shall be properly recorded in the book of accounts. All projects shall be recorded as Construction-In-Progress (CIP) and reclassified to Land Improvements (LI) upon completion. In the case of the implementation of the Enhanced National Greening Program from CY 2011 to CY 2019, a total project amount of ₱1,115,560,316.12 was already reclassified as LI leaving a total project amounting to ₱653,646,740.15 under the CIP classification. Nonetheless the field offices are continuously making efforts to complete the reclassification.

PURSUE BLUE AND GREEN ECONOMY 34 ENHANCED NATIONAL GREENING PROGRAM Denuded forest land is primarily seen as the cumulative impact of deforestation. In the Philippines, deforestation is the major factor in the loss of biodiversity. Land-use conversion activities, including illegal and unreported logging, kaingin or slash and burn farming, building dams, urbanization, and more significantly a rapid rate of population expansion is also contributing factors. Along with these human-caused denudation elements, there are also natural phenomena such as typhoons, earthquakes, forest fires, pest and diseases that induce forest degradation. Deforestation increased the severity and frequency of floods, droughts, erosion, landslide, siltation of coral reefs and reductions in ground water supplies, with serious consequences affecting the human being and other living organism. Due to the continuing problem of environmental degradation, it has claimed lives, damaged properties, destruction of habitat and extinction of endangered species. Regardless of the hurdle faced, our agency dauntlessly continues the development, conservation and protection of our environment and natural resources. Region 2 made incredible progress due to the DENR personnel’s and partners passionate dedication to our massive greening efforts. The department engages in collaborative partnership with other national government agencies (NGAs), academe, civil society organizations and other stakeholders in the implementation and formulation of plans and programs pertinent to the National Greening Program (NGP). The department undertakes the use of Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), Memorandum of Agreements (MOA), Letter of Agreements (LOA) to entice the general public to engage in conserving and protecting the NGP planting areas. The program's ambitions extended beyond restoring the country's ravaged forests back to their former splendor, and also guarantee that it will have an impact on the live of the people particularly the program beneficiaries. The program has been successful and continues to be driven by dedication, responsibility, and commitment; it will soon bear fruit as a result of a greener and healthier Cagayan Valley Region. IMPLEMENTATION SCHEME 1. Social Mobilization The conduct of Information, Education Communication (IEC) campaign is important in the implementation of the program to understand the details of the program and thier responsibilities. This aims to strengthen partnership and assures the commitment of PO’s/partners and to bring closer the concept and objectives of the program which is a contributory factor for the success of the project. For CY 2022, through effective IEC, the participation of Peoples’ Organization with 733 family beneficiaries were encouraged and further strengthened as manifested by the signed Memorandum of Agreements. The partners will implement the complete site development of the identified sites to include activities on seedling production, plantation establishment and three (3) years

PRIORITY PROGRAMS 35 maintenance and protection activities to ensure the good quality and high survival rate of the plantation established. The partners are also compliant to the requirements and qualifications set in the guidelines for community participation. The qualifications are as follows: - Duly registered association with a registering body such as the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) - Resolution/Minutes of the Meeting approving the implementation of the project by the member of the organization; and - An active bank account - No. of LOAs/MOAs contracted by Peoples Organization, Region 2, CY 2020-2022 PENRO/CENRO YEAR TOTAL 2022 2021 2020 MOAs Family Involved BATANES 3 3 CAGAYAN 7 287 429 436 Alcala 2 52 81 83 Aparri 2 88 133 135 Sanchez Mira 104 104 Solana 1 45 37 38 Tuguegarao 2 102 74 76 ISABELA 3 136 282 32 317 Cabagan 1 36 45 7 53 Cauayan 54 2 56 Naguilian 1 74 95 9 105 Palanan 9 2 11 Roxas 25 11 36 San Isidro 1 26 54 1 56 NUEVA VIZCAYA 3 78 143 26 172 Aritao 1 50 78 10 89 Bayombong 1 18 34 11 46 Dupax 1 10 31 5 37 QUIRINO 9 232 773 175 957 Diffun 3 113 430 158 591 Nagtipunan 6 119 343 17 366 TOTAL 22 733 1,630 233 1,885

PURSUE BLUE AND GREEN ECONOMY 36 2. Survey, Mapping and Planning The preliminary activity conducted for the enhanced National Greening Program was the Survey Mapping and Planning (SMP). The activity was conducted based on FMB Technical Bulletin NO. 1- B or the Revised Guidelines on Surveying, Mapping and Planning. Activities undertaken were site delineation, site assessment and community consultation. Site assessment activities were thoroughly done to ensure that the plantation to be established is suitable in the area so that high survival rate will be attained. As part of the requirement for the SMP, soil analysis has been included in the activity to estimate the plant-available concentrations of nutrients, in order to determine the fertilizer recommendations or may be needed for optimum plant growth and yield potential.

PRIORITY PROGRAMS 37 SMP target and accomplishment of plantable areas, CY 2022 PENRO/CENRO LOCATION TARGET (hectares) ACCOM. (hectares) % ACCOM. CAGAYAN 1,350.0 1,350.0 100% ALCALA Tagtay, Baggao, Cagayan Pussian, Alcala, Cagayan, Amulung Cagayan 270.0 270.0 100% APARRI Pina Weste, Gattaran, Cagayan Ballesteros, Cagayan 270.0 270.0 100% SANCHEZ MIRA Brgy. Dibay and Brgy. Zitanga, Ballesteros, Cagayan 269.0 269.0 100% SOLANA Brgy. Calassitan, Sto Niño, Cagayan 271.0 271.0 100% TUUEGARAO Brgy. Cabasan, Nannarian, Callao, Malibabag, Nababbalayan, Peñablanca, Cagayan 270.0 270.0 100% ISABELA 1,300.0 1,300.0 100% CABAGAN Brgy. Antagan, Tumauini, Brgy. Carmencita, Delfin Alban, Isabela 200.0 200.0 100% CAUAYAN Brgy. Burgos, San Guillermo, Isabela, 100.0 100.0 100% NAGUILIAN Brgy. Dibuluan, San Jose, San Mariano and Brgy. Sindun Bayabo, Ilagan City, Isabela 300.0 300.0 100% PALANAN Brgy. Villa Robles, Didiyan, Dicadyuan, San Isidro, Palanan, Isabela 200.0 200.0 100% ROXAS Brgy Abut and Santos, Quezon, Isabela 200.0 200.0 100% SAN ISIDRO Brgy. Taliktik, Cordon, Isabela 300.0 300.0 100% TOTAL 2,650.0 2,650.0 100% 3. Seedling Production For CY 2022 a total of 2,590,581 seedlings were produced. Source of seedlings in the implementation of the project were produced by Peoples Organization, Modernized and Mechanized Forest Nursery located at Lannig, Solana, Cagayan and Clonal Nurseries in Diadi, Nueva Vizcaya and Tuguegarao, Cagayan. Local Government Units were also tapped as partners in the production of bamboo propagules for the stabilization of riverbanks under the Build Back Better program of the Department. Employees support to the implementation of the program was also manifested through initiatives to produced seedlings in compliance to RMC 2014-01. These seedlings were used in replanting graduated sites and in other planting activities initiated by the Department. Part of the production were also distributed to client requesting for seedlings.

PURSUE BLUE AND GREEN ECONOMY 38 Figure 3: Summary of Seedlings Produced by source, CY 2022 a. People’s Organization For CY 2022, Region 2 produced a total of 1,125,054 indigenous forest tree species such as Apitong, Bitaog, Dao, Kalumpit, Kupang, Molave, Narra, Yakal, and White Lauan. The 10% excess production is to augment the mortality rate. The different forest tree seedlings were planted within critical watersheds and protected areas. Table 2: Seedling produced by partner implementers in the field offices PENRO/CENRO TARGET NO. OF SEEDLINGS NO. SEEDLINGS PRODUCED ACCOM (%) CAGAYAN 375,000 412,590 110% Alcala 93,750 103,125 110% Aparri 125,000 137,500 110% Solana 93,750 103,125 110% Tuguegarao 62,500 68,840 110% ISABELA 156,250 171,875 110% Cabagan 31,250 34,375 110% Naguilian 93,750 103,105 110% San Isidro 31,250 34,375 110% NUEVA VIZCAYA 175,000 196,839 110% Aritao 58,125 65,000 110% Dupax 58,750 67,000 110% Bayombong 58,125 64,839 110% QUIRINO 312,500 343,750 110% Diffun 109,375 120,312 110% Nagtipunan 203,125 223,438 110% TOTAL 1,018,750 1,125,054 110% 0 200,000 400,000 600,000 800,000 1,000,000 1,200,000 1,125,054 80,773 1,084,976 53,908 245,870 Number of Seedlings Produced By Source Peoples Organization Local Government Unit MMFN Clonal Nurseries RMC 2014-01

PRIORITY PROGRAMS 39 Figure 4: Photo documentation showing the produced seedlings of Peoples Organization under the National Greening Program for CY 2022 P.O Name: Orang Greeners Association Location: So. Orang, Brgy. San Fernando, Bambang, Nueva Vizcaya P.O Name: San Martin Farmers Agriculture Cooperative Location: Brgy. San Martin, Maddela, Quirino P.O Name: San Manuel Forest Developers Association Location: Brgy. San Manuel, Aglipay, Quirino

PURSUE BLUE AND GREEN ECONOMY 40 b. Modernized and Mechanized Forest Nursery Modernized and Mechanized Forest Nursery was designed for the mass production of seedlings. The facility is located at Lannig, Solana, Cagayan which supplies the demand/request for seedlings of different government agencies and private entities such as individual/firm, association, incorporation and more. Part of the production was also utilized for the replanting of NGP graduated sites. Some facilities of the MMFN have encountered some glitches in its operation particularly the program of the machine, thus making it not fully functional. Despite of this, the expected production was overshoot resulting to a total production of 1,084,976 of different timber and agroforestry species. Figure: Graph showing the monthly seedling production of MMFN 49,900 149,790 97,008 65,389 31,896 150,195 142,712 351,668 0 21,623 24,815 0 50,000 100,000 150,000 200,000 250,000 300,000 350,000 400,000 Number of Seedlings Months Number of Seedlings Produced Photo documentation showing the seedlings produced in the Modernized and Mechanized Forest Nursery, CY 2022’

PRIORITY PROGRAMS 41 c. Clonal Nurseries Cloning is important in plant propagation because it carries the original traits of the trees being cloned and it is entirely identical to the parent tree/mother tree. In region 02, there are two (2) clonal nurseries being managed namely the Rogelio B. Baggayan (RBB) located at Carig Sur, Tuguegarao City and Magat Clonal Nursery situated in San Luis, Diadi, Nueva Vizcaya. Species produced in the nurseries were Narra, Tuai, Molave, Kalomata and bamboo such as Kawayang Dilaw and Kiling. Seedling Production in Clonal Nurseries Clonal Nursery Target Accomplishment % Cloned Germinant Wildlings Total Accom. RBB Clonal Nursery 20,000 22,824 1,814 1,341 25,979 130% Kawayang Dilaw 490 490 Kawayang Kiling 805 805 Kayali 700 700 Narra 8,300 1,341 9,641 Tuai 11,529 11,529 Molave 1,000 1,000 Ebony 1,050 1,050 Mabolo 764 764 Magat Clonal Nursery 20,000 27,929 27,929 140% Narra 11,936 11,936 Tuai 7,993 7,993 Kalomata 7,500 7,500 Dao 500 500 TOTAL 40,000 50,753 1,814 1,341 53,908 135% Photo documentation showing the different activities conducted in the clonal nurseries

PURSUE BLUE AND GREEN ECONOMY 42 d. Employees Commitment to National Greening Program The implementation of Regional Memorandum Circular 2014-01, mandating DENR personnel to produced indigenous seedlings to supplement the needs and demands of seedlings by the private individuals or group and in support to the implementation of National Greening Program, produced a total of 245,870 seedlings.

PRIORITY PROGRAMS 43

ESTABLISH LIVABLE AND SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITIES 44 ESTABLISH LIVABLE AND SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITIES a. Water Security Program Water Resources Utilization The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is mandated to implement several environment and natural resources laws of the country. In line with this, the National Water Resources Board (NWRB) as the national regulating and coordinating agency on water resources management and development is tasked to implement the Water Code of the Philippine. In the performance of its mandate, the NWRB is called upon to conduct monitoring and enforcement activities all over the country. However, due to lack of personnel and field offices, the NWRB exercised its power to deputize any official or agency of the government to perform any of its specific functions or activities. The NWRB Resolution No. 15-1116 was approved adopting the deputation of the DENR Regional Offices on certain functions of water use regulations. Factors Influencing Program Implementation The DENR Regional Office No. 2, particularly with the Licenses, Patents and Deeds Division (LPDD) is on its seventh (7th) year serving as NWRB’s Deputy in the DENR Regional Office to perform some function relative to regulation of water use to complement the existing deputized agents such as the DPWH, NIA and some water districts. The Water Resources Utilization Section (WRUS) was created under the LPDD to undertake these specific functions enumerated in the NWRB Resolution No. 15-1116 entitled, “Deputation of DENR Regional Offices on Certain Functions of Water Use Regulation”. The specific activities of the DENR Regional Office included the following: 1. Conduct of continuing of inventory of water users 2. Identification of water sources for inventory map 3. Acceptance/verification of water permit application (WPA) 4. Conduct of Information, education and communication (IEC) campaign on the Water Code of the Philippines 5. Conduct of re-echo training for PENR/CENR Office and coordination meeting with the other deputized agencies. CONDUCT OF CONTINUING INVENTORY OF WATER USERS The conduct of continuing inventory of water users was within the scope of the region. Despite the limitations brought by the pandemic, the WRUS was able to cover the four provinces of Region 2, namely Cagayan, Isabela, Nueva Vizcaya and Quirino in its inventory conducted.

PRIORITY PROGRAMS 45 During the inventory, some water users were not aware of the salient provision of the Water Code of the Philippines. This scenario provided the opportunity for the Office to inform them of the important provisions of the Water Code. The region was able to accomplish 130% of its target having inventoried 195 water users against an annual target of 150 users.

ESTABLISH LIVABLE AND SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITIES 46 CONDUCT OF WATER SOURCES INVENTORY The conduct of inventory of water sources was conducted simultaneously with the inventory of water users and inspection, acceptance and verification of water permit application. Water source such as rivers, springs, creeks and small water impounding system are not yet fully tapped as water sources for development. However, DENR R02 thru its Soil and Water Conservation tapped such water source and constructed Small Water Impounding Project (SWIP). Some private individuals were also utilizing springs as water source for domestic use and business enterprise. With an annual target of 45 water sources inventory, the region was able to accomplished 59 inventories representing a 131% accomplishment.

PRIORITY PROGRAMS 47 ACCEPTANCE/VERIFICATION OF WATER PERMIT APPLICATION The most tangible accomplishment of the WRUS is on the acceptance/verification of water permit application. This is significantly manifested with the eventual Issuance of Water Permit by the National Water Resources Board (NWRB). As compared to other local permit, the Water Permit is also very important, as this will regulate the use of our water resources in a sustainable manner. The annual target of the section in this activity was 32 water permit application to be endorsed to NWRB. The section was able to accomplished 116% with 37 application accepted/verified and endorsed to NWRB. The accomplishment was significant as most of the enterprise related to appropriating water are slowly returning to business and LGUs are implementing water system projects for their constituents in the rural areas which implementation are affected during the pandemic.

ESTABLISH LIVABLE AND SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITIES 48 CONDUCT OF TRAINING ON WATER RESOURCE REGULATION AND UPDATES WITH OTHER DEPUTIZED AGENCIES. One of the specific function of the Water Resources Utilization Section (WRUS) under the Licenses, Patents and Deeds Division as deputized agent of the National Water Resources Board (NWRB) is the conduct of re-echo training for PENROs and CENROs and coordination meeting with other deputized agents in the area. In line/compliance to this, the WRUS conducted training entitled “Reorientation on the Processing of Water Permit Application and Securing Documentary Requirements Including Small Water Impounding Projects (SWIP) of the DENR within CBFM, PA, NGP and NCIP Areas”, on November 11, 2022 through webinar using zoom application. The said learning and development activity aimed to re-orient participants on the different purposes of appropriating water and the requirements for water permit for each use including SWIP of the DENR. The learners that participated in the said learning session were the Chiefs and Staffs of the Permitting and Regulation Section (RPS) and Focal Persons of CBFM, PAs and NGP projects of the PENROs and CENROs within the region. The participants are frontliners in the field offices, hence their role is very vital in the implementation of the mandate of the DENR. The topics discussed by Learning Service Provider experts during the learning event/service were the following: • Overview and updates on the application of Water Permit on Government Project was discussed and presented by Engr. Zelda A. Vasquez, Asst. Chief, Licenses, Patents and Deeds Division (LPDD); • Water Uses and Water Permit Application (WPA) Requirements and Legal Fees was discussed and presented by Ms. Merlinda T. Taccad, Cartographer I/NWRB Deputized Agent; • Process Steps on Securing Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) and Certificate of Non-Coverage (CNC) was discussed and presented by Engr. Penny John M. Cuaresma of the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) Regional Office No. 2, Tuguegarao City, Cagayan;

PRIORITY PROGRAMS 49 • Establishment of Small Water Impounding Project was discussed and presented by Mr. Jose G. Bueno, Development Management Officer II; and • Additional Requirements for the Issuance of Water Permit for SWIP Projects was discussed and presented by Engr. Splendor A. Cuarteros, Chief, Water Resources Utilization Section (WRUS). The re-orientation training was attended by a Total of sixty nine (69) participants/learners. After the training, Certificate of Attendance was awarded to the participants with an eight (8) hours learning event earned. Certificate of Appreciation was also awarded to the LSPs for sharing their invaluable knowledge to all the participants. CONDUCT OF INFORMATION AND EDUCATION CAMPAIGN (IEC) One of the specific activity of the WRUS is the conduct of information, education and communication (IEC) on the Water Code of the Philippine and its Implementing Rules and Regulation (IRR) to key stakeholders. This activity was contained in the CY 2022 Work and Financial Plan. The IEC was targeted to be conducted on the second quarter of the year on the month of June 2022. However, the IEC activity was conducted on May 26, 2022 via face to face at the Local Government Unit of Bambang, Nueva Vizcaya in coordination with the Hon. Pepito D. Balgos, M.D., Mayor and the Office of the MENRO, MPDC, Municipal Assessor’s and other concerned offices. Proper coordination with the LGU of Bambang, Nueva Vizcaya was extended by the PENRO of Nueva Vizcaya and CENRO Aritao that ensure the availability of the venue and the invitation of the participants. The participants on the said IEC activity were representatives from the MPDC, MENRO, Barangay Captains, Water Refilling Station owners and Hotel and Resorts owners of Bambang, Nueva Vizcaya. Other participants were the Regulations and Permitting Section Chiefs and Staff of PENRO Nueva Vizcaya and CENRO Aritao. Minimum health protocol was strictly observed during the conduct of the IEC activity such as wearing of face mask, using alcohol for sanitation and social distancing in response to the still prevailing COVID-19 in the country. The topics discussed during the IEC were the following: 1. Water Resources Situationer 2. Water Management Issues • Water Quality Deterioration • Increasing incidence and intensity of water related risks such as Typhoons, Floods, Droughts and Landslides. • Ground Water Contamination