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Harnessing modern technologies like artificial intelligence, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in Region 10, under the leadership of Director Henry A. Adornado, has significantly strengthened its efforts in environmental protection and monitoring. This strategic adoption enables more effective management of natural resources and enhances the department’s capability to safeguard biodiversity and ecological integrity.
Speaking at the Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas, Adornado highlighted these advancements as part of the department’s ongoing mission to protect, conserve, manage, and develop the country’s natural resources.
Director Adornado announced the establishment of a national environment and natural resources geospatial database through DENR Administrative Order No. 2023-01. This initiative aims to leverage satellite remote sensing, machine learning, AI, and geographic information systems (GIS) for effective policy-making, planning, and decision-making processes.
In addition to technological advancements, Adornado highlighted the region’s achievements in preserving natural heritage. The region boasts nine legislated protected areas, including four ASEAN Heritage Parks: Mt. Kitanglad Range Natural Park in Bukidnon, Mt. Malindang Range Natural Park in Misamis Occidental, Mts. Timpoong-Hibok-Hibok Natural Monument in Camiguin, and the recently designated Mt. Inayawan Range Natural Park in Lanao del Norte.
“These heritage parks are a testament to Northern Mindanao’s exceptional wilderness and biodiversity,” Adornado stated. He emphasised that these protected areas foster greater understanding, appreciation, enjoyment, and conservation of the region’s natural beauty.
The DENR-10 director also underscored the importance of protected areas in ensuring biodiversity conservation, supporting ecosystem services, and contributing to climate change mitigation and adaptation. These areas provide social, economic, and cultural benefits to surrounding communities, enhancing overall environmental health and community well-being.
In 2023, DENR-10 further advanced its digitalisation efforts by launching an online gratuitous permit application system, which complements existing online services such as wildlife local transport permits and free patent application tracking. This move has significantly improved the efficiency of permit processing, as noted by Jing Macaibay, a lumber trading business owner in Cagayan de Oro City. Macaibay praised the quick feedback and streamlined processes available through the online system.
DENR-10 continues to promote similar initiatives, striving for stronger partnerships with local governments, people’s organisations, the private sector, and other government agencies to protect and manage the country’s forests and forest lands. Adornado expressed his gratitude for the support from various stakeholders and reaffirmed the department’s commitment to innovative solutions and good governance.
“It is remarkable that the DENR-10 has achieved significant and sustainable outcomes in environmental protection and conservation through the notable support from our stakeholders,” Adornado concluded. “With this success, we remain determined and optimistic about creating innovative solutions through collaboration with our stakeholders and local communities.”
Environmental sustainability is a critical issue for the Philippines, particularly in the agriculture and fishing sectors, which are vital to the country’s economy and food security.
The government has developed several initiatives to modernise the agriculture and fisheries sectors, fostering collaboration, and promoting sustainability for socio-economic benefits and food security.
OpenGov Asia reported on the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) and the Department of Agriculture (DA) initiatives to improve the livelihoods of fisherfolk and farmers through modern technologies and support programmes. BFAR’s “Masaganang Pangisdaan Tungo sa Maunlad na Ekonomiya” trained 70 fishermen in new fishing technologies and government services. Various government agencies participated, emphasising collaboration and stakeholder engagement.
By adopting advanced digital technologies and sustainable practices, the Philippines aims to ensure long-term environmental resilience and productivity. This approach not only protects natural resources but also sustains the livelihoods of communities dependent on these ecosystems, paving the way for a sustainable future for the nation.
