LUNA, Apayao – The provincial government thru the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) conducted capability training and year-end evaluation for green guards from December 16-18, 2024 at Apayao Eco Tourism and Sports Complex (AETSC) Clubhouse in San Gregorio Luna.
This training was attended by over 110 participants aimed at equipping the guards with additional knowledge and skills, and to prepare them for additional tasks and challenges that may come in 2025.
Marcelo Menor, Environmental Planner, Safety and Environmental Management System, in his remarks, reminded the guards of their important roles and responsibilities, especially in safeguarding the environment. Menor also highlighted the importance of proper coordination.
Governor Elias C. Bulut Jr., meantime, encouraged the provincial green guards to work hand in hand in protecting the environment, underscoring the protection and conservation of wildlife and other plant species in the province. The Governor also thanked them for their efforts, saying “ Kitkitaen mi met ti mabalin nga maitulong mi wenno benepisyo para kanya yu ta ibudgetan mi para next year.”
During the activity, PENRO foresters Louie Vellez, Joseph Buyag and Angelica Dason shared their knowledge on various topics, such as Revised Forestry Code of the Philippines, Chainsaw Act of 2022 and Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act of 2001, to refresh the knowledge of the participants.
The event concluded with the presentation of accomplishments and Apayao Biosphere Reserve plans, tree planting at Payanan ground and signing of contract for 2025.
Additionally, participants were encouraged to voice out opinions and thoughts during the open forum. They also signed their contract for January 2025.
One of the guards, Marphy Gudayan form Cagandugan, Luna, Apayao, expressed gratitude, saying “agyaman kami ta naikkan kami manen iti gundaway nga ma-recontract as provincial green guards, nu man pay haan unay dakkel ti sweldo at least makatulong iti pamilya ti tunggal maysa kadakami.”
Gudayan added that “daytoy nga training ket nakaited iti adal tunggal maysa kadakami tapnu ammu mi ti functions mi iti masaksakupan mi ken ma-refresh ken nanayunan ti knowledge mi maipapan iti leadership ken agbalin nga role model iti sabali.” By Loremia Pareja
