Environmentalists Criticize DENR Forest Land Program

By Dolly Yasa

BACOLOD CITY – The Group of Environmental Socialists (GOES) has raised serious concerns over the Department of Environment and Natural Resources’ Sustainable Forest Land Management Agreement (SFLMA), urging the agency to consider alternative approaches.

In a statement Monday, GOES said, “While we understand the government’s aim to promote economic growth and sustainable forest management, we believe that there are alternative solutions that can be explored without allowing private individuals to encroach on forest lands.”

The group urged DENR to broaden its approach and look into carbon trading as a sustainable option that can yield economic benefits without harming forest ecosystems.

“By adopting innovative and sustainable practices, we can achieve a balance between economic interests and environmental conservation,” the group added.

GOES said DENR must realize there are ways to create jobs and revenue without exploiting forest resources, and called on the government to explore greener alternatives that do not involve habitat destruction.

They warned that DENR’s recent moves may trigger further environmental degradation and increased violations by large corporations.

“We urge the government to prioritize forest protection and seek sustainable solutions that support both the environment and the economy,” they said.

GOES, along with Green Advocates of Nature (GAN), also criticized DENR’s inaction in issuing self-demolition orders for illegal structures inside Mt. Kanlaon Natural Park (MKNP) and Northern Negros Natural Park (NNNP).

Despite visible growth in unauthorized establishments, the groups said no Special Authority in Protected Areas (SAPA) agreements have been granted, allowing illegal structures to persist.

“It is troubling to see that while local communities or indigenous peoples are being asked to self-demolish structures, known environmental violators continue operating without consequence,” they said.

They claimed this double standard only accelerates the decline of already fragile ecosystems.

The groups said continued illegal construction in MKNP and NNNP threatens not only biodiversity but also communities that depend on these areas for livelihoods and essential resources.

They emphasized that these parks are vital for mitigating man-made disasters, and their protection must be a top DENR priority.

“We call on the DENR to reassess its policies and prioritize forest preservation for both current and future generations,” GOES said.

“Our forests are essential for survival, and it is our duty to protect them for the sake of our planet and all its inhabitants,” the statement added.