The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) MIMAROPA, along with key agencies and community groups, officially established the Provincial Multi-Sectoral Forest Protection Committee (PMFPC) in Romblon on September 6.
This committee aims to enhance forest conservation and promote sustainable management across the province.
During the program held at Dob’s Events Place in Odiongan, officials from DENR MIMAROPA and partner agencies such as the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), Philippine National Police Maritime Group (PNP-MG), and local indigenous organizations signed a Pledge of Commitment.
This pledge solidified their joint mission to protect Romblon’s forests through strategic planning and sustainable practices.
Romblon’s forest cover has shown significant improvement, increasing by 50.4% between 2010 and 2020, from 16,277 hectares to 24,360 hectares, according to PENRO Cesar Odi.
However, illegal activities such as timber poaching, charcoal production, and unlawful gold mining remain persistent threats, highlighting the importance of the newly formed PMFPC to address these issues while supporting the socio-economic needs of the local communities.
The formation of the PMFPC follows DENR Administrative Order No. 17 (1995), which mandates the creation of multi-sectoral forest protection groups, and Executive Order No. 23 (2011), establishing the Anti-Illegal Logging Task Force.
Key officials, including DENR MIMAROPA Regional Executive Director Felix Mirasol, Jr., emphasized the need for unified efforts to protect Romblon’s forests and ensure sustainable development.
