LUNA, Apayao – Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer (PENRO) Rainier Balbuena called for a unified approach to protect the ecological and socio-cultural integrity of the Biosphere Reserve of the yApayaos (BRyA) during the Management and Development Planning Workshop on September 18 at the LMP Building, Apayao Eco Tourism and Sports Complex (AETSC).
Balbuena opened his remarks expressing excitement over the gathering and underscored the shared purpose of the workshop. “We are all here gathered for a common purpose – to put flesh on this very designation as awarded by UNESCO Man and Biosphere Programme to the Province of Apayao,” he said.
The PENRO officer urged participants from various sectors to align their efforts with the goals of the BRyA, stating the need to integrate individual programs and merge estimates into a cohesive five-year plan.
“Dito natin ia-anchor yung lahat ng programa at proyekto or activities. In the long run, kailangan mag-merge yung ating mga target activities,” Balbuena said while noting the importance of cooperation among agencies.
The said workshop seeks to formulate strategies that will safeguard the ecological integrity of the biosphere reserve while promoting local socio-economic and cultural opportunities. It likewise harmonizes the efforts for sustainable development.
“It is time roll the sleeves to work together,” Balbuena stated, calling on all participants to engage in significant discussions.
The BRyA designation by UNESCO has placed the province of Apayao on the global map, but according to Balbuena, it comes with a responsibility to make sure that Apayao’s natural resources are managed sustainably for future generations. By Jess Christley Marquez
