We are sorry, the requested page does not exist
DENR to consult with United States Army Corps of Engineers about Manila Bay reclamation
he Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) on Wednesday said that it will conduct a community impact assessment of the Manila Bay reclamation projects. This comes after the United States Embassy, located along Roxas Boulevard fronting Manila Bay, expressed concerns earlier this week over the negative environmental impact of a massive reclamation project in the area and the involvement of a Chinese state-owned construction company. During the Malacañang Press Briefing, DENR Secretary Ma. Antonio Yulo-Loyzaga said that they will conduct the assessment in consultation with stakeholders from the affected communities. She added that the aim is to gather information on the potential impacts of the projects on the environment, the economy, and the culture of the affected communities. "We will be using the Manila Bay Sustainable Development Master Plan as a reference to the baseline condition for the Community Impact Assessment," said Loyzaga. "We will also be consulting with experts from the United States Army Corps of Engineers, who have extensive experience in conducting community impact assessments for reclamation projects," she added. Loyzaga explained that they are doing this assessment to see the impact of the reclamation projects on the communities and the environment, as any disturbance to the ecology will disrupt systems. The Manila Bay Sustainable Development Master Plan, which Yulo-Loyzaga said was developed in the previous administration, will be used as a reference for the assessment. The plan outlines several strategies for rehabilitating and developing Manila Bay, including reclamation. "There are concerns not just expressed by the US Embassy but by others as well, not just for the ecology of the possible impacts to the ecology, but also for the cultural and historical impacts of the changes that could take place given the history of Manila Bay," she said. In February, the Philippine Reclamation Authority (PRA) announced its intention to commence land reclamation in one of the three bay area projects during this year. The permits for these projects were obtained between 2019 and 2021, under the governance of the Duterte administration. A total of 13 reclamation projects have been approved, requiring approximately 5,000 hectares of land from Manila Bay. The post DENR to consult with United States Army Corps of Engineers about Manila Bay reclamation appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Exemplar firm delivering critical energy
Because the Philippines needs more energy resources, the country is almost dependent on imports of coal and fossil fuels to feed its energy requirement. Since 2021, petroleum prices have significantly increased because of the post-pandemic recovery and ongoing geo-politics tension in Europe with the war in Ukraine. The scenario exposes power consumers to corporate greed, with the energy market dominated by big players with eyes fixed on maximizing profits from their investments. Sounds fair. The same is particularly true in rural communities where Power is served by the more than 100 electric cooperatives nationwide, with higher power rates in Metro Manila. As a result, Congress did not renew the franchise of Panay Electric Company when it expired on 18 January 2019, paving the way for the Enrique Razon-owned MORE Electric and Power Corporation or MORE Power, which was granted a 25-year contract to serve and operate Iloilo city’s electricity distribution system. The decision brought relief to Iloilo consumers, with Sen. Grace Poe, chairman of the Senate Committee on Public Services, boasting of the benefits experienced by consumers in Iloilo enjoying lower power rates. MORE Power invested P1.5 Billion to replace the ‘aging, obsolete and dilapidated’ power distribution facilities in Iloilo City. Hence, in its first year of operation, MORE Power managed to address the frequent brownout, high electricity bills, significant system losses, and other power-related problems in the city. Residents in Iloilo City experienced a dramatic reduction in their electricity bills. From the previous P13 per kilowatt hour, the power rate significantly dropped to P6.40 kwh, and this is one of the lowest electricity rates in the entire country. MORE Power’s effort in rehabilitating the power facilities had brought remarkable progress as they addressed the systems loss factor, illegal connection, power interruptions, and overloading. MORE Power is living proof that modernization funds will provide accurate and efficient solutions to the problems in the power sector. This glaring reality haunts the 121 electric cooperatives in the country, which practically have no funds for modernization. Their facilities must keep up with the current demand resulting in better service. The power supply crisis is serious and widespread in the country. The Senate Committee on Public Services and the Committee on Energy are conducting a joint investigation into the rotational brownouts experienced in Panay, Negros, Nueva Ecija, Northern Samar, Pampanga, San Isidro, and San Jose in Nueva Ecija, Calaca in Batangas, Quezon province, Tabuk City in Kalinga, South Cotabato, Maguindanao, Ozamiz, Lumban in Laguna, Zamboanga City, Pangasinan, Tarlac, Marinduque, Camarines Norte, Echague in Isabela, Zamboanga Sibugay, Masbate, Davao Oriental, Southern Leyte, Casiguran in Aurora and Bicol. Most people ignore the problem unless the energy price shoots up and there are long queues at the gas station. During the Senate inquiry, Sen Poe pointed out that the electric cooperatives were being loaned with government funds. They were also given incentives to improve the service in rural communities. However, cooperatives still need to catch up with the demand. And this is unacceptable, for I could not fathom and comprehend why local government units still gave those electric cooperatives subsidies worth millions to operate. In the investigation, one essential thing has prevailed — modernization is necessary to address the decades-long power supply problem. Electric Cooperatives or ECs, are managed by the National Electrification Administration. Based on their website, as of June, NEA had extended P560.66 million in loan assistance to 18 Electric Cooperatives. But despite the large number of loans extended to the cooperatives every year to strengthen the technical, managerial capability, and financial viability of the ECs, the fact remains that their resources for infrastructure development still need to be increased and expanded. And because of limited resources, it is difficult for ECs to implement new technologies and innovations compared to significant private sector utilities with considerable financial resources. Hence, it is no surprise that the private sector has more capacity to implement immediate infrastructure upgrades, technological advancements, and operational efficiencies with reliable results and quality service. So one of the solutions that Sen. Poe sees is the entry of private players like MORE Power — for her, this is the key to improving the power service because of their large capitalization. The energy crisis is a complex and broad issue. Most people ignore the problem unless the energy price shoots up and there are long queues at the gas station. The energy crisis is ongoing and will worsen, despite all stakeholders’ concerted efforts. We must welcome all initiatives to manage the situation’s impact, including the privatization of electric cooperatives, because the Energy Regulatory Commission has regulatory oversight power to ensure quality standards and fair pricing and that monopolistic practices are avoided. The post Exemplar firm delivering critical energy appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
How companies are helping DENR ensure an ‘Environment for Life’
On the occasion of the global celebration of World Environment Day, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources held an “Environment for Life” event, led by DENR Secretary Toni Yulo-Loyzaga, that highlighted the department’s two-pronged blueprint for strategic and effective sustainable development and environmental action in the country. The key to these initiatives is to put in place comprehensive, whole-of-government and whole-of-society plans that are coupled with finding strategic partners in the form of LGUs and/or the private sector. Marubeni Philippines, a major integrated trading and investment business conglomerate from Japan; Holcim Philippines, a Swiss-based global building materials and aggregates company; the Razon-led Prime Infrastructure Capital Inc.; SM Supermalls of SMIC; San Miguel Corporation; DMCI Mining Corporation; HOPE/Century Pacific Food Inc.; Makilala Mining Company Inc.; and Basic Environmental Systems and Technologies Inc. shared the stage with the DENR and presented their respective efforts toward coherent, convergent and synergized environmental action. [caption id="attachment_149039" align="aligncenter" width="525"] PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF HOLCIM PHILIPPINES | Holcim Philippines decarbonized its operations and reduced carbon emissions per ton of cement by 7 percent.[/caption] A recurring theme in all the reports from these strategic partners was how their initiatives embodied the DENR mantra regarding natural resources: to protect, rehabilitate, restore and regenerate. And when it came to treating plastic waste, it was about reduce, reuse and recycle. Marubeni highlighted its carbon credit program through reforestation, a joint undertaking of Marubeni, DENR, Dacon Corp. and the University of the Philippines Los Baños. The initial site covers 10,000 hectares in Negros Occidental and aims to restore biodiversity, create employment in local communities and establish a carbon credit program. Holcim Philippines decarbonized its operations and reduced carbon emissions per ton of cement by 7 percent. In partnership with DENR, it will deploy a 100-percent solar powered catamaran, the Circular Explorer, operated by One Earth One Ocean, to clean up coastal areas from plastic waste in Manila Bay. There is a new project in Northern Mindanao to support coral and coastal ecosystems via a “marine bio-active concrete.” Prime Infra has a reforestation project, in partnership with DENR, covering a 1,800-hectare area within the Upper Marikina River Basin Protected Landscape. This project integrates water security and watershed protection with forest carbon and biodiversity management, with the MoU serving as a blueprint for the wider implementation of nature-based solutions programs. SM Supermalls embraces sustainability through initiatives on energy conservation, solid waste reduction and water conservation. Its adoption of green and resilient designs in its buildings promotes disaster mitigation and prevention measures, along with solid waste management. Initiatives such as Trash to Cash Recycling, EV charging stations, regular coastal clean-ups, incentives for bicycle riders and the use of recycled water for cooling systems are all part of the SM Supermalls commitment to environmental action. San Miguel Corporation showcased its dredging and river widening work in rehabilitating the Pasig River and its tributaries, which has been effective in reducing floods and overspill in several strategic localities along the river’s course that has historically been notorious for flooding. SMC partners with DENR, the Department of the Interior and Local Government, Metro Manila Development Authority and concerned LGUs on these initiatives. DMCI Mining shared its work in helping clean up the recent MT Princess Empress tanker accident and the resulting oil spill and expressed its appreciation for the opportunity to play a critical role in the cleanup of coastal areas in Caluya, Antique. Meanwhile, HOPE Foundation/Century Food Inc., a highly developed CSR sustainable program centered on coconut growing for its Vita Coco beverage, has generated livelihood opportunities for several targeted barangays and communities. It also joined the Plastic Exchange Program, which aims to reduce plastic waste and contribute to the implementation of the Extended Producer Responsibility Act. The Makilala Mining Company presentation offered a framework for the future of responsible mining, since the planned equity participation for the Balatoc indigenous community that owns the land can provide a regenerative sustainability model for the mining sector. The women in their senior management team also make Makilala a model of inclusion and diversity. Lastly, BEST highlighted its Trash to Cashback program and how it’s centered on a five-step program of Segregate, Exchange, Redeem, Collect and Recycle. The company’s Balik PET Bottle Program is in partnership with Coca-Cola Far East Limited and the Philippine Association of Stores and Carinderia Owners. The event was an effective showcase for how the DENR is developing new ways of working across several fronts to make the protection, preservation and regeneration of the country’s natural resources part of a comprehensive plan for resource development, to ensure that a sustainable future can be safeguarded for all. The post How companies are helping DENR ensure an ‘Environment for Life’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DENR eyes more biodiversity partnerships
Department of Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Antonia Loyzaga addressed over 150 World Wide Fund for Nature international leaders from 80 countries during the 2023 WWF Annual Conference held in Puerto Princesa, Palawan on 25 May. Loyzaga said her department is exploring a potential partnership with global conservation organization WWF to boost efforts toward preserving the country’s rich biological diversity and protecting threatened species and their habitats amid climate change. Founded in 1961, WWF is the world’s leading independent conservation organization. It aims to conserve and restore biodiversity and ensure the sustainable use of natural resources to support current and future generations. Leaders who attended the conference in Palawan included newly-appointed WWF international president Dr. Adil Najam, director general Dr. Kirsten Shujit, president ad interim Neville Isdell, WWF Philippines chairperson Maribel Garcia and executive director Trin Custodio. Joining them were WWF international board member and former Department of Energy chief Vince Perez. Loyzaga said that while the Philippines is one of the world’s 18 mega-biodiverse countries and considered the richest marine eco-region on the planet, it is also one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots with at least 700 threatened species. “We must now prioritize restoration of degraded areas to prevent and reverse species loss, and work together toward investing in the regeneration of life on land and below water to achieve a nature-positive world,” Loyzaga said during her keynote speech. “I would like to extend an invitation to WWF to work with the ASEAN Center for Biodiversity, the Manila Observatory and the DENR on climate change-related species vulnerability analysis by biogeographic region using high-resolution scenarios, and the adoption of threatened endemic species in order to move them away from the threat of extinction,” she added. Loyzaga also urged the WWF to work with DENR on innovative approaches for corporate responsibilities through the adoption of spatial finance. According to Loyzaga, a whole-of-society approach is needed to halt and reverse biodiversity loss, accelerate climate action and strengthen disaster resilience, which are key components of the Philippine Development Plan. “We must ensure a balance between advancing human development and protecting biodiversity, and the DENR is committed to investing in urgent and transformative change to address the intersecting crises of biodiversity loss and climate change,” she said, noting that achieving resilient and sustainable development can only be realized through concerted efforts and the sustained commitment of all. In 2010, the DENR issued its Administrative Order No. 2010-16 which established the “Adopt-A-Wildlife Species Program” pursuant to the Republic Act No. 9147 or the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act. The order aims to ensure the perpetuity of threatened species and protection of their habitats; promote biodiversity conservation and prevent species extinction through the active participation of stakeholders; and raise awareness on the country’s threatened wildlife species, among others. The DENR and its partners in government, the private sector, development bodies and civil society groups are also implementing programs to fulfill the country’s global commitments under the Global Biodiversity Framework, the Sustainable Development Goals, the Paris Agreement on Climate Change, and the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction. These include the USAID Philippines Sustainable Interventions for Biodiversity, Oceans, and Landscapes; Protect Wildlife Project; and collaborations with private sector organizations. This includes collaboration with Energy Development Corporation, Ayala Group, and Prime Infra on GHG and biodiversity inventories, climate disaster risk management programs, research, monitoring, reforestation, watershed area protection, and remote sensing technologies, to name a few. The post DENR eyes more biodiversity partnerships appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
EMB eyes approval of all solid waste management plans in 2023
MANILA - The Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is eyeing the approval of all solid waste management plans (SWMPs) of local government units (LGUs) nationwide by the end of the year as envisioned in Republic Act 9003, otherwise know.....»»
Pagkakasama ng Boracay sa “50 World’s Greatest Places of 2022” ipinagmalaki ng DENR
MANILA, Philippines – Ipinagdiwang ng Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) ang pagkakasali ng Boracay Island sa Time Magazine ‘50 World’s Greatest Places of 2022.’ Ayon kay DENR OIC Secretary Ernesto D. Adobo Jr. ang parangal mula sa award-winning publication ay patunay ng tagumpay ng pagsasaayos ng Boracay Island sa ilalim ng Duterte administration. […] The post Pagkakasama ng Boracay sa “50 World’s Greatest Places of 2022” ipinagmalaki ng DENR appeared first on REMATE ONLINE......»»
DENR eyes more trash traps in Calabarzon rivers
Forty-two additional trash traps will be established along major rivers in Cavite, Rizal, Laguna and Batangas in line with the Manila Bay rehabilitation program......»»
DENR stops operation of Chocolate Hills resort
MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) issued a cease and desist order (CDO) against the controversial Chocolate Hills resort operating in a protected area in Bohol province. DENR Undersecretary for Field Operations Juan Miguel Cuna said the CDO was issued on March 14, putting Captain’s Peak Garden and Resort under close monitoring.....»»
House eyes bigger wage hike of up to P350 a day
MANILA, Philippines — The House of Representatives is considering a daily minimum wage hike for all private sector workers higher than the P100 proposed by the Senate, including a bill seeking a P350 increase. In a statement on Sunday, House Majority Leader Manuel Jose Dalipe pointed out that the chamber’s members arrived at a consensus.....»»
WATCH: Jonas Brothers perform When You Look Me In the Eyes during Manila 2024 concert
Filipino fans caught a glimpse of heaven after the Jonas Brothers performed several of their greatest tracks in Manila, including their hit single "When You Look Me In The Eyes.".....»»
Manila-based shipping firm eyes resumption of Davao-Lupon ferry services
DAVAO CITY (MindaNews/February 20) – A Metro Manila-based shipbuilding company is eyeing to resume the Davao City – Lupon, Davao Oriental ferry boat operation in October, a City Council official said Tuesday. Councilor Conrado Baluran, Committee of Transportation and Communications chair, said that shipping firm Pinoy Catamaran proposed the possibility of servicing the stalled ferry […].....»»
Government eyes e-bike regulation
After receiving complaints from motorists, the government plans to regulate e-bikes and electric tricycles by banning these vehicles from major thoroughfares in Metro Manila......»»
No exact air pollution numbers in MM – DENR
An official of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) admitted yesterday that the 138 monitoring stations in Metro Manila do not reflect the actual air pollution in the metropolis......»»
MMDA eyes more stations for Pasig River Ferry
The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority plans to build more stations for the Pasig River Ferry Service, an official said yesterday......»»
PCG eyes transfer to Bilibid
The Philippine Coast Guard is looking into the possibility of transferring its headquarters from Port Area, Manila to the New Bilibid Prison reservation in Muntinlupa City, a PCG official said yesterday......»»
DA eyes SRP on rice as retail prices still over P50 per kg
MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Agriculture (DA) is looking at the possibility of issuing a suggested retail price (SRP) for rice to temper price fluctuations across the country. But with global prices surging to 15-year highs in late December last year to around $620 a metric ton from $400 in January, mainly due to.....»»
Piston eyes SC relief on PUV co-op deadline
MANILA, Philippines — Besides waging a weekslong strike, a transport group is also considering a petition before the Supreme Court to stop the Dec. 31 deadline for public utility vehicle (PUV) operators to form cooperatives with consolidated franchises. Pagkakaisa ng mga Samahan ng Tsuper at Operator Nationwide (Piston) president Mody Floranda said the group is considering a.....»»
Toledo City chess team eyes victory in Batang Pinoy National Championships
CEBU CITY, Philippines—- The Toledo City chess team is poised to make a statement in the upcoming Batang Pinoy National Championships on December 16, 2023, in Metro Manila. Toledo’s chess team, which secured a gold medal in last year’s Batang Pinoy National Championships in Vigan City, Ilocos Sur, will receive a significant boost heading into.....»»
DENR greenlights Pasay reclamation projects
The DENR confirmed on Wednesday that it has allowed two Pasay City reclamation projects to continue — among the first reclamation activities to resume in Manila Bay since the president ordered a suspension in August......»»
DENR launches search for most improved Metro Manila estero
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources yesterday launched the search for the most improved estero in Metro Manila as part of the government’s campaign to clean waterways in the metropolis......»»