LUNA, Apayao – The Department of Environmental Natural Resources (DENR) Apayao held an Environmental Forum at the Aliwa Gymnasium, Luna, Apayao on February 19, 2024, which was aimed to increase awareness on environmental conservation and sustainable practices.
More than 110 participants, including provincial department heads, local government officials, community leaders, educators, and environmental advocates, attended the said event.
The Province of Apayao was named the Philippines fourth Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 2024, thus the forum aimed to increase awareness and encourage environmentally friendly practices in the province. Among the main subjects covered were the environmental situation in Apayao, the achievements and programs of DENR, and the Fiscal Year 2026 budget consultation.
Congresswoman Eleanor Bulut Begtang highlighted the integral role of the environment in the province’s development plans. “Nagasat tayo iti probinsiya ti Apayao kasi marami tayong mga plano. Kailangan nating pagplanuhan ang agricultural development, tourism, disaster management. But if you look at them iisa lang ang common denominator natin the protection of the environment. This is how important the environment is, without a good environment we cannot do all these things,” she added.
The event also featured an open forum where attendees voiced their concerns and suggestions regarding local environmental issues. The DENR assured ongoing assistance and cooperation with stakeholders.
DENR Apayao and the different government agencies, local leaders, and environmental advocates, collaborated and aligned their strategies on sustainable environmental management. The initiative supports Apayao’s commitment to responsible development while preserving its rich natural heritage. By Joyce Arian Soria
