Cabagan, Isabela – From July 8 to 12, 2024, an environmental governance training program was conducted at the Isabela State University Cabagan Campus. The training brought together department heads from the local government units (LGUs) of Isabela and Cagayan provinces, with the aim of strengthening their environmental management capabilities.
Participants included Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Officers (MENROs), Municipal Planning and Development Officers (MPDOs), Municipal Agriculturists (MAs), Sangguniang Bayan chairpersons on Environment and Agriculture, and ABC Presidents. This diverse group represented a wide range of departments and agencies involved in local environmental governance.
The training focused on equipping local officials with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively address environmental challenges in their respective municipalities, particularly those located in coastal areas. By enhancing their capacities, the training aimed to contribute to sustainable development and environmental protection in the region.
The training featured a series of learning sessions, including:
- Basic Concepts of Ecology, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Climate Change Adaptation (CCA), and Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR): Participants gained a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness between ecological systems and the broader global goals for sustainability and resilience.
- Resource Management Models: The sessions introduced participants to applicable resource management models tailored to their specific local contexts, equipping them with the tools to enhance sustainable practices in their municipalities.
- Basic Environmental Law Enforcement Skills and Procedures: Participants were trained in the fundamentals of environmental law enforcement, ensuring they are well-prepared to uphold and protect natural resources.
- Ordinance and Policy Drafting: Lawyers from Tanggol Kalikasan provided valuable insights into drafting ordinances and policies, with a particular focus on the DILG Memorandum Circular 2023-012. This circular guides the enactment and updating of municipal and city fisheries ordinances for coastal LGUs.
The training also included study tours to several notable sites:
- Arvyk Organic Farm in Sta. Elena, Isabela: Showcasing organic farming.
- Antolins Farm in Amulong: Highlighting innovative farming techniques.
- Bamboo Sanctuary in CSU Gonzaga, Cagayan: Demonstrating the environmental benefits of bamboo cultivation.
- Palaui Island Protected Landscape and Seascape in Sta. Ana, Cagayan: Offering insights into the conservation of protected areas.
As a culmination of the environmental governance training, participants developed Area-Specific Action Plans (ASAPs) tailored to address the unique environmental challenges and opportunities in their respective municipalities. These action plans focus on enhancing resource management and protection, promoting sustainable practices, and addressing environmental concerns.
To ensure successful implementation, the ASAPs will be closely monitored and supported by technical experts from the Integrated Environmental Governance (IEGs) program. This ongoing support will provide guidance, assistance, and resources to help local officials achieve their environmental goals.
This activity is part of EJSRP Phase 3 - Promoting Environmental Justice in the Pacific Seaboard facing the Benham Rise, in collaboration with DILG and DA BFAR. This is in partnership with US DOI ITAP, US INL and the Institute of Environmental Governance.