Lucena City, Philippines - October 27, 2025. Forest Foundation Philippines, in partnership with Tanggol Kalikasan, formally launched the "Safeguarding the Conservation & Ecosystem Network for the Resilient Inhabitants of Polillo (SCENERI Polillo)" project during an inception meeting held in Lucena City. The event brought together key stakeholders, local government partners, and technical experts, marking the official start of a multi-sector initiative aimed at strengthening ecosystem resilience and community well-being across Polillo Island.
The inception meeting gathered representatives from the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO) Polillo and the Municipal Agriculture Office (MAO) Polillo, underscoring the crucial role of local government units in environmental governance. Their presence demonstrated the LGU's commitment to supporting conservation efforts through policy leadership, community engagement, and on-ground implementation.
Officials from Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) CALABARZON also joined the discussions, contributing valuable insights on sustainable fisheries management and coastal resource protection areas considered vital to the long-term ecological stability and food security of Polillo Island's communities.
During the session, the project team presented the initiative's overarching framework, detailing its rationale, components, and strategic approaches. The discussion provided participants with a comprehensive understanding of how the project intends to advance habitat conservation, strengthen resource management, and empower local communities.
A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to clarifying the roles and responsibilities of each partner institution. Stakeholders reviewed the project work plan and implementation timeline, and they agreed on coordination mechanisms to ensure efficient, collaborative, and transparent execution of activities. Establishing clear communication channels was emphasized as essential to maintaining alignment throughout the project's duration.
The event also served as a platform for identifying potential challenges and aligning expectations among partners. Through open dialogue and shared planning, the meeting reinforced cooperation and strengthened the collective resolve to protect Polillo's ecosystems and support its people.
By the close of the session, the group had agreed on the next steps and outlined immediate priorities. With strong collaboration among Forest Foundation Philippines, Tanggol Kalikasan, partner LGUs from Polillo, and BFAR CALABARZON, the SCENERI Polillo project is now set to advance into full implementation - driven by a unified vision and a shared commitment to safeguarding the island's natural heritage for generations to come.