The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has given recognition to 15 “environmental frontliners” for their exemplary dedication toward environmental protection and conservation during the celebration of the 122nd Philippine Civil Service founding anniversary.
With the theme—“Alagad ng Kalikasan: The Untold Stories of DENR Environmental Defenders”—the event saw the recognition of forest rangers, science researchers, enforcement and field officers, mining engineers, geologists, communication officers, and other frontline service personnel from regional offices and bureaus for their utmost dedication and passion to fulfill the department’s mandate.
In his speech, Undersecretary for Field Operations—Luzon, Visayas, and Environment Juan Miguel Cuna expressed appreciation for the unsung heroes who “defend from degradation the air that we breathe, and the water that sustains us”.
“They selflessly put their lives on the line in the cause of environmental protection.”
“They selflessly put their lives on the line in the cause of environmental protection. Their examples should inspire more people to actively safeguard the quality of our environment,” Cuna added.
Certificates of Recognition were awarded to Forest Ranger Windel Adornado and Forest Technician Rexmel Telan from DENR-Region IVA, Forest Protection Officer Dennis Nudo from DENR-Region III, Ecosystems Management Specialist Cris Ann Villarante from DENR-Region V, Enforcement Division OIC Maricar Puno-Sanchez from DENR-National Capital Region, driver Richard Amores from DENR-Region VIII, Administrative Assistant Michael Matira from DENR-Central Office, and Records Officer Loribelle Lluz from the Land Management Bureau.
Also given recognition were Senior Science Research Specialist Rodessa Ortega and Environmental Management Specialist Jepp Farrales from the Environmental Management Bureau, Geologist Julius Vincent Umali and Senior Environmental Management Specialist Ivy Kimberly Batecan from the Mines and Geosciences Bureau, Senior Communication Development Officer Roservirico “Obing” Tan from DENR-Region IX, Engineer Donnie Mancera from the National Mapping and Resource Information Authority, and Ecosystem Management Specialist Joahnna Vargas from DENR-Region V.
DENR Undersecretary for Legal, Administration, Human Resources, and Legislative Affairs Ernesto Adobo Jr. related the Civil Service Commission’s thematic focus on resilience amid individual and organizational challenges during the DENR’s recognition event.
“We have expanded our service to environmental enforcement, thus, making the work of our frontliners seriously perilous than before.”
“Gone were the days when the role of the DENR was largely that of a regulator. We have expanded our service to environmental enforcement, thus, making the work of our frontliners seriously perilous than before,” Adobo said in his speech read by Assistant Secretary for Human Resources, Strategic Communication, and Sectoral Initiatives Hiro Masuda.
The event also coincided with a photo exhibit of the awardees at the DENR Central Office, giving the spotlight to each awardee and their essential services that primarily drive the fulfillment of the agency’s mandate.
The awarding ceremony and photo exhibit were spearheaded by the Development Communication Division of the DENR-Strategic Communication and Initiatives Service.
