Visayas launches biodiversity workshop for 2024–2040 roadmap

1 of 3

The Visayas Cluster consultation workshop on the Philippine Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan 2024–2040, along with the preparation of the 7th National Report to the Convention on Biological Diversity and the amendment of the Expanded National Integrated Protected Areas System Act, officially opened recently at The Vermillion Hotel in Iloilo City.

Department of Environment and Natural Resources Region VI Executive Director Raul L. Lorilla expressed gratitude in his opening remarks, saying, “The Philippines is blessed with a rich biodiversity.”

“As a signatory to the Convention on Biological Diversity, our country takes into account its progress in the implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and the PBSAP through the 7th National Report,” he added.

“I do encourage each and every one, considering the collective experiences of all the participants, to share our various experiences and lessons learned to meet our global and national commitments on biodiversity conservation,” he said.

“Our ongoing efforts in the Visayas in protected areas, local conservation areas, marine sanctuaries, critical habitats, watersheds, and other conservation areas are crucial to prevent species extinction and further degradation of natural ecosystems,” he concluded.

Virtual messages followed from DENR Region VIII Director Arturo N. Salazar and Undersecretary for Legal and Administration and Supervising Undersecretary for the Biodiversity Management Bureau, Atty. Ernesto D. Adobo Jr.

BMB Chief Nancy R. Corpuz provided a comprehensive overview of the updated PBSAP, emphasizing the 23 Philippine targets and indicators.

Her presentation detailed the key strategies and outcomes aligned with the plan’s vision: “Biodiversity nurtured, resiliency improved, our future secured.”

The opening day also featured presentations on existing biodiversity initiatives in the Visayas from various organizations and local leaders.

Speakers included Glenn C. Ontolan from the Provincial Government of Negros Oriental, who discussed their Local Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan.

Teresita Jimenez of the Municipal Agriculture Office in Enrique Villanueva, Siquijor, shared the recent designation of the Bitaug Marine Protected Area.

Anson Tagtag from the Biodiversity Management Bureau presented the National Plans for Ecosystem Restoration and Extinction Prevention.

Dennis Calvan shared RARE Philippines’ work on community-led conservation campaigns in Antique.

The first workshop session centered on PBSAP stocktaking, a participatory process used to update the national roadmap for biodiversity conservation. (DENR-6)