JASMINE D. JASO
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) recognized Pampanga for its unwavering dedication, steadfast commitment, and tireless efforts in protecting and restoring Manila Bay.
The province was hailed as one of the Manila Bay-ani Award regional awardees during the DENR awarding ceremony held at the Diamond Hotel in Manila on Tuesday, June 14.
This came after the province remarkably scored during the assessment conducted by the department among all the local government units (LGUs) included in the Manila Bay area.
In a letter addressed to Pampanga Governor Dennis “Delta” Pineda, Engr. Paquito Moreno, Jr.—DENR Central Luzon regional executive director—lauded Pampanga for its efforts and initiatives towards the rehabilitation and clean-up of the Manila Bay.
On behalf of Governor Delta, Atty. Charlie Chua—provincial administrator—and Engr. Arthur Punzalan—provincial environment and natural resources officer—personally received the award from Senator Cynthia Villar, Acting DENR Secretary Jim Sampulna, former DENR Secretary Roy Cimatu, Palawan 3rd District Rep. Edward Hagedorn, and Atty. Antonio Oposa, Jr.
“This is the fruit of our regular clean-up drives and waste management programs and activities led by Governor Dennis Pineda and Vice Governor Lilia Pineda in the province. With our continuous and collaborative efforts, we have drawn the attention of the national government,” said Engr. Punzalan.
Meanwhile, Governor Delta thanked the DENR for recognizing the contribution of the province to the rehabilitation and clean-up of the Manila Bay.
“I would like to extend my sincerest gratitude to the DENR for this award. We assure you that we will strive even harder to further improve our projects and programs in the management of our natural resources,” he said.
The Manila Bay-ani Award is aimed at recognizing LGUs that have shown exemplary performance in the implementation of their mandates and responsibilities under environmental laws that support the rehabilitation of the Manila Bay.
