ERDBINFO JOURNALVol 11 No. 4 July - August 2017

ERDB Bimonthly Newsletter

What’s Inside2 ERDB wins LBSCFI’s F. O.

Tesoro Technology Transfer Award

3 ERDB joins the 2017 NSTW celebration at the World Trade Center, Pasay City

4 LBSC holds Techno Forum on Water Security in Los Baños

ERDB senior citizens and PWDs conduct environmental learning event

5 ERDB-CBT team trains LGUs of Bulakan, Bulacan

ERDB’s senior citizens visit Costales Nature Farms

6 Good Governance cum Team Effectiveness Program and Value Orientation Seminar for BCWERC held

7 Youth for Environment Schools (YES) Campaign and Ecotour

8 BCWERC conducts learning event in observance of the National Disaster Resiliency Month

9 MDARRC visits mining sites in Surigao del Norte, widens its scope in rehabilitation ofmined-out areas

10 UTHRC-TPPU conducts Hands-on Training on Plant Propagation

11 WWRRC celebrates National Disaster and Consciousness Month with an “Earthquake and Disaster Preparedness Learning Event”

12 MDARRC conducts in-house review of ongoing and completed projects/studies

13 BCWERC joins Cebu Garden Club in promoting urban ecotourism

14 Children with disabilities celebrate National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation Week at WWRRC’s Learn Ecopark

BCWERC researchers conduct information advocacy at Barangay Cabugao, Batan, Aklan

15 DENR officials and staff visit the rehabilitated mined-ou and waste dump areas of Bagacay Mines Hinabangan, Samar

16 PBSAP regional cascading workshop for the Visayas cluster held

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It was a Saturday when the newly-appointed DENR

Secretary Roy A. Cimatu made his first official visit to the ERDB office on July 29, 2017. Sec. Cimatu was warmly welcomed by ERDB Director Henry A. Adornado as well as the members of the ERDB Executive Committee, ERDB Employees’ Association and all the permanent and contractual employees.

Secretary Cimatu was accompanied by Undersecretary for Administration, Finance, Human Resource and Knowledge and Information Systems, Atty. Ernesto D. Adobo, Jr.; OIC Undersecretary for Field Operations and Staff Bureaus, Marlo D. Mendoza; Undersecretary for Climate Change Service,

ERDB welcomes new DENR Secretary Roy Cimatu

DENR-ERDB opens Congress to sustainably manage ASEAN’s mangroves

ERDB Director Adornado shows to DENR Sec. Cimatu the clonal seedlings produced in the ERDB clonal facility. Photo by Earl Vincent Escosura, TTD

Key personalities from the 2nd ASEAN Mangrove Congress hold hands to showcase “One ASEAN, One Mangrove”.

Atty. Ana Liza R. Teh;Undersecretary Demetrio Ignacio Jr., Assistant Secretary for Policy and Planning, Corazon C. Davis; Assistant Secretary for Field Operations and Staff Bureaus, Nonita S. Caguioa; Biodiversity Management Bureau (BMB) Director Mundita Lim, and Forest Management Bureau (FMB) Assistant Director Mayumi Quintos-Natividad and Director Rolando Castro.

During his address, he stressed that he will give importance on the following six areas of concern: Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, Solid Waste Management Act, Greening Program, Biodiversity and Mining.

When asked regarding his stand on the mining issue, Sec. Cimatu said, “DENR will continue to fulfill its mandate. We have different bureaus implementing the laws mandated by the DENR.” The Secretary also mentioned and recognized the research sector for providing reliable and science-based information which he used to clarify and answer issues being asked of him.

With more than two hundred participants

from Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam, along with partners from USA, UK, India, and Bangladesh, the 2nd ASEAN Mangrove Congress commenced on September 5, 2017 at the Forbes Hall of Conrad Hotel in Pasay City.

The second gathering of ASEAN researchers, government officials, policy makers, NGOs, and other

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DENR-ERDB opens congress... from page 1

environment managers aims to enhance public awareness on current pressing issues, impacts and threats to mangroves such as climate change. The event is spearheaded by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (DENR-ERDB) with funding support from the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA).

DENR Secretary Roy A. Cimatu, in his keynote address, pushed for the convergence of ASEAN countries’ research and development efforts for a sustainable regional-wide mangrove conservation.

“May I assure you that the Philippines, through the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, is giving serious attention in protecting and rehabilitating our ecosystems to attain our vision as one of the countries in the ASEAN region that enjoys and sustains

its natural resources and a clean and healthy environment. This is the reason why the DENR brings forth the 2nd ASEAN mangrove congress” said Sec. Cimatu.

Meanwhile, in his speech, ERDB Director Dr. Henry A. Adornado also urged the participants from the academe, government, and non-government organizations to work collaboratively in developing sustainable mechanisms and initiatives for mangrove ecosystems conservation, rehabilitation, and management.

Dr. Carmelita I. Villamor, Chief of ERDB’s Coastal Zones and Freshwater Ecosystems Research Division and the Overall Coordinator for the event emphasized that this year’s gathering also aims to review whether the objectives set during the first mangrove congress has been achieved.

The Congress’ exhibit also showcased ASEAN mangrove researches, including 32 poster papers

and 38 paper presentations. The paper presentations covered four key themes including: 1) mangrove ecology, functions, and fisheries; 2) mangrove restoration and rehabilitation; 3) climate change adaptation and mitigation; and 4) socio-economic and valuation studies.

The book entitled Mangroves and Beach Forest Species in the Philippines was also officially launched with DENR-ERDB as the publisher who commissioned Dr. Jurgenne Primavera, Dr. Resurreccion Sadaba, Dr. Junemie Lebata-Ramos, and Dr. Jon Altamirano as the authors.

The Day 1 of the event which was devoted for reporting of status of mangroves in Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam provided a venue for the exchange of in-depth learning and good practices on mangrove research, conservation, and management. Adreana S. Remo, TTD

ERDB won anew an award from the Los Baños Science Community

Foundation Inc. (LBSCFI). This time the ERDB received the F. O. Tesoro Technology Transfer Award through its Hi-Q Vam 1 technology which is a biofertilizer which has wide application for agricultural, horticultural, mangrove and forest species. The inventor of the technology is Dr. Evangeline T. Castillo, retired Supervising Science Research Specialist of ERDB with Ms. Carmelita Mojica, Senior Science Research Specialist of ERDB who continued doing research on the said technology.

The PARRFI R and D Award Research Category was given to the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) on the “Iron and Zinc Biofortification Project in Indica Rice”.

The awarding and closing ceremony was held on August 4, 2017 at the Umali Auditorium, SEARCA, College, Laguna. Students from the Philippine High School for the Arts also entertained the guests with song numbers.

SEARCA Director Dr. Gil C. Saguiguit, Jr. welcomed the guests during the occasion. He said, “The R and D Award is aligned with SEARCA’s objective of promoting cutting edge research to contribute to agricultural rural development of our country. Underlying this is our support for capacity building and developing a new breed of researchers and professionals to take up the challenge of contributing to nation building”.

In his inspirational message, Dr. Reynaldo Ebora, Acting Director of PCAARRD said, “Muli po nating napatunayan na ano mang gawain gaano man kahirap, kung gagawin nang nagkakaisa at nagsasama-sama, ito ay magiging magaan at kayang-kaya. Pinatunayan na po natin ito noon at muli nating pinatunayan ngayon na dahil sa pagkakaisa ng LBSCFI, walang duda na paulit-ulit po natin itong patutunayan sa mga darating pang panahon.”

Aside from the R and D Awards, the LBSCFI also paid tribute to outgoing LBSCFI representatives by giving plaques of appreciation to members

who have served the foundation for decades such as Dr. Danilo C. Cardenas, Deputy Executive Director of PCAARRD; Mr. Mario M. Movillon, Chief Science Research Specialist of the Philippine Rice Research Institute (Philrice), and Ms. Cleofe G. Cabauatan of the Philippine High School for the Arts (PHSA).

For the closing remarks, Dr. Alexander R. Madrigal, President of the LBSCFI and Director of DOST Region 4A recalled the activities during the 3-day event and thanked all the member-agencies for making the events a success. Marla V. Cambay, TTD

ERDB wins LBSCFI’s F. O. Tesoro Technology Transfer Award

Dr. Evangeline Castillo and Ms. Carmelita Mojica of ERDB as they receive the cash prize and plaque of appreciation from Dr. Ruben Villareal. Also in photo are: Dr. Alexander R. Madrigal, President of the LBSCFI (leftmost), Dr. Reynaldo Ebora, Acting Director of PCAARRD (3rd from left), and Dr. Bighani M. Manipula ERDB Asst. Director (rightmost).

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Another question was on what the DENR employees can expect from him as the new DENR Secretary, Sec. Cimatu said, “In my tenure as DENR Secretary, I will make it a point to give credit to whom credit is due. If you do good, then you will be a candidate for promotion.” He answered all issues and concerns raised during the forum and also assured his support on the ERDB’s request to retain the 67 coterminus with the incumbent (CTI) positions vacated by those who availed the early retirement during the rationalization plan.

During the visit, the Secretary took time to see the ERDB facilities including the laboratories, bamboo and rattan gallery, ERDB nursery and the Los Baños Experiment Station. A video was also presented on the short history of ERDB including its ongoing projects and the ERDB’s organizational structure.

At the end of the short program, Director Adornado expressed thanks to the Secretary and the entire DENR senior officials for finding time to visit ERDB. He assured the full support of ERDB as research arm of the DENR to all programs of Secretary Cimatu. Marla V. Cambay, TTD

ERDB joins the 2017 NSTW celebration at the World Trade Center, Pasay City

Left photo: Department of Budget and Management Secretary Benjamin Diokno and DOST Secretary Fortunato dela Peña together with the DOST’s Outstanding Young Scientist Awardees. Photos by Ann Valerie V. Gillado, TTD

For. Paul Cuadra explains the phytoremediation project with one of the viewers during the exhibit. Photos by Ann Valerie V. Gillado, TTD

Once again the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau

(ERDB) joined the Philippine Science Community together with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) in celebrating the 2017 National Science and Technology Week (NSTW) on July 11, 2017 at the World Trade Center in Pasay City. This year’s theme is “Science for the People”.

The celebration served as an opportunity for the public to understand how science and technology can help in generating livelihood opportunities especially in the countryside.

Dr. Carol M. Yorobe, Undersecretary for S & T Services, DOST and Chairperson, 2017 NSTW Steering committee delivered the welcome remarks. She said, “Through our interactive exhibits, S and T fora, career talks and hands-on demonstrations, we hope that the National Science and Technology Week 2017 will open the eyes of our “kababayans” in the outstanding outputs of the Philippine science and technology in reaching life saving applications to its target beneficiaries”.

Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Fortunato T. dela Peña introduced the keynotespeaker and gave a short message forthe occasion. He encouraged everyoneto view the exhibits and he said, “May thisgathering serve as an opportunity for oursupporters to meet and discuss the mostpressing issues affecting our science andtechnology”.

In behalf of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Benjamin E. Diokno gave the keynote address.In his speech, Sec. Diokno said, “I ampleased that over the last few years, theScience department and the country’s Sand T base have become more attentiveto the growing needs of its constituentsand stakeholders”.

Sec. Diokno further said, “The time has come that we put under the spotlight the transformative and limitless potential of science, technology and innovation and its vast potential for material growth and social development in support of the development imperatives under the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte”.

Awards that were given include the following: Outstanding Young Scientist Awards, Outstanding R & D Award for Applied Research, Outstanding R & D Award for Basic Research,

ERDB welcomes... from page 1

Outstanding Science Administrator Award and the Outstanding Technology Commercialization Award.

Among those present in the occasion were heads of government agencies like Dr. Henry A. Adornado, ERDB Director; President of Universities and Colleges, Senator Cynthia Villar, former DOST secretaries and some members of the diplomatic corps. Marla V. Cambay, TTD

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The Los Baños Science Community (LBSC) conducted the techno forum

titled “Maka-kalikasang Talakayan tungo sa Sustenableng Supply ng Tubig sa Los Baños” on August 3, 2017 at the W.D. Dar Hall in PCAARRD, Los Baños, Laguna.

The LBSC Techno Forum is one of the yearly activities of the LBSC which aims to increase the awareness of the Los Baños constituents on selected topics on the environment.

The ERDB spearheaded the said activity being the lead agency of this year’s forum. The participants were composed of resort owners, water refilling station owners, canteen/restaurant owners, homeowners’ association in Los Baños, LGU representatives from the barangays of Los Baños, policy makers and LBSCFI member agency representatives.

Los Baños Mayor Cesar P. Perez gave the welcome remarks. He said, “Ang hinahanap nating pagbabago ay magsisimula sa bawat isang mamamayan hindi lamang sa aming mga nanunungkulan. Magsimula tayo sa pangangalaga ng isang sustenableng tubig sa pamamagitan ng pangangalaga sa ating malinis na tubig na ginagamit natin sa araw-araw”.

ERDB OIC Asst. Director Bighani M. Manipula enumerated the rationale and objectives of the techno forum in behalf of ERDB Director Dr. Henry A. Adornado, Chair of the Techno Forum Committee.

UPLB Chancellor Fernando C. Sanchez, Jr. also gave a short message during the occasion. He encouraged everyone to actively participate in the forum and said, “I wish everyone an insightful and a productive forum and may we all be conscientious of how we consume our water resource.”

Dr. Alexander R. Madrigal, President of the LBSCFI and Director of DOST Region IV-A expressed his full support for the activity of the LBSC in giving importance to the issue on water security.

Dr. Nathaniel C. Bantayan, Director of the Makiling Center for Mountain Ecosystem (MCME) presented the UPLB’s mandate on watershed protection and the MMFR AHP Management Plan 2025. He likewise gave updates on the forest protection and monitoring, research activities and the continuing challenges of the MCME.

The second speaker was Engr. Fatima Jean R. Alvarez, Production Supervisor of the Laguna Water District Aquatech Resources Corporation

(LARC). She presented the topic “Water Demand and Water Supply”. She tackled the company background of LARC and the supply and demand of water in Los Baños.

Dr. Patricia Ann J. Sanchez, Associate Professor IV of the UPLB School of Environmental Science and Management (SESAM) discussed the following topics: water use, water quality, water-related agencies, Apex body, and

LBSC holds Techno Forum on Water Security in Los Baños

ERDB senior citizens and PWDs conduct environmental learning event

water-related environmental policies.Questions were then raised following

the presentations afterwhich the tossing of the mineral water bottles was done by all the participants signifying their commitment to protect and conserve water to make it sustainable.

For the closing remarks, Dr. Lydia S. Manguiat, Asst. Regional Directorof DOST Region IV-A congratulatedthe organizers of the forum and hopedto have an action plan and continuediscussing the issues raised during theforum in future activities of the LBSC.Marla V. Cambay, TTD

Engr. Fatima Jean R. Alvarez (center), Production Supervisor of the Laguna Water District Aquatech Resources Corporation (LARC) answers a question during the open forum of the LBSC’s Techno Forum on Water Security in Los Baños held on Aug. 3. 2017 at PCAARRD, Los Baños, Laguna. Also in photo are: Dr. Patricia Ann J. Sanchez (leftmost), Associate Professor IV of the UPLB School of Environmental Science and Management (SESAM) and Dr. Nathaniel C. Bantayan (rightmost), Director of the Makiling Center for Mountain Ecosystem (MCME). Photo by Gino Laforteza

In celebration of the 39th National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation

(NDPR) Week Celebration from July 17-23, 2017, with the theme “Karapatanat Pribilehiyo ng Maykapansanan:Isakatuparan at Ipaglaban”, the ERDBsenior citizens and PWDs (Persons withDisability) conducted an environmentallearning event.

The activity was held at the Los Baños Experimental Station (LBES). The area is currently under the Laboratory and Experimental Services Division (LESD) headed by Dr. Marilyn Q. Landicho. As the technical staff in-charge at LBES, Ms. Liza Condino was assigned as the resource speaker for the seniors and PWDs. She talked

about the history of LBES. Originally, LBES had 48 hectares but at present it has only 10.04 has with complete geographical map. This demonstration area is composed of different plantations such as medicinal genebank, agroforestry kamagong, bambusetum, palmetum, rattan genebank, tissue-cultured forest tree species and clonal plantation.

To date, there are enhancements and renovations made at the LBES to provide quality service for its clienteles.

The group of seniors and PWDs enjoyed the learning event and environmental tour at LBES. The activity increased their awareness regarding the environment and importance of its protection. Fe. F. Cortiguerra, FERD

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ERDB’s senior citizens visit Costales Nature Farms

ERDB-CBT team trains LGUs of Bulakan, Bulacan

The Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) through the Laboratory and Experimental Services Division

(LESD) and the Technology Transfer Division (TTD) conducted a capability building activity on the ERDB Charcoal Briquetting Technology (CBT) on July 5, 2017 at the barangay hall of Barangay San Jose,Bulakan, Bulacan. The activity was made possible through the request and coordination of PENRO Celia D. Esteban of Guiginto, Bulacan and MENRO Enrico Salapo of Bulakan, Bulacan. Twenty-five LGU representatives (mostly barangay councilors) from Barangays San Nicolas, Taliptip, San Jose and the MENRO Office of Bulakan,Bulacan attended and participated in the training.

The ERDB-CBT team headed by For.Kevin Philip Olaya with the assistance of Mr. Marvin Lobina and Mr. Jay Senson of LESD conducted lectures and hands-on demonstration on charcoal briquette production from waste materials. They demonstrated the proper use of the charcoal briquetting equipment and the step-by-step process in charcoal briquette production.

The LGU of Bulakan, Bulacan requested the training to utilize and make productive the complete set of briquetting equipment - a commitment made by Gov.Wilhelmino Sy- Alvarado of Bulacan. ERDB assisted the LGU through the fabrication of the equipment which was delivered to them in December 2016. The set of equipment include a drum kiln carbonizer, hot metal plate carbonizer, grinder, manual mixer, manual briquettor, and electric dryer.

Impressions given by the participants are: a) a worthwhile activity for they learned a lot in minimizing waste and turning it into something which could be a source of income in the future; b) re-echo the learnings to other barangaymates so that they could also earn later (source of livelihood) in the future; and c) they learned to convert biodegrable materials into charcoal briquettes which can be a good livelihood activity for their community.

According to MENRO Salapo, if this charcoal briquette project of them will materialize and be sustained, the municipality will be saving a lot in terms of payment made for waste disposal. Likewise, they will have a clean and orderly environment plus a possible source of income for the communities of Bulakan, Bulacan. The MENRO added that their municipality generates an estimated volume of one (1) ton of waste per day and pays P2.20/kilo/day for the tipping fee which is around P22,000/day- a huge savings for the municipality if the CBT project will be realized. Vienna O. Austria, TTD

A participant trying the manual briquettor as MENRO Salapo looks on.

The Costales Nature Farms in Majayjay, Laguna

For. Kevin Olaya of ERDB demonstrating the proper use of the drum kiln carbonizer.

In line with the Wellness and Health Program of the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB),

17 senior citizens composed of 11 females and 6 males visited the Costales Nature Farms in Majayjay, Laguna on 18 August 2017. It aimed to increase awareness on sustainable balance in agriculture organic farming and promote a healthy lifestyle.

A short briefing was held on the historical antecedent of how the Costales Nature Farms started. Afterwards, the various features of the 8-hectare organic farm and its technologies inside were visited. The tour guide demonstrated the processing of waste from zero-waste policy and imposed the loop system of agriculture wherein livestock animals are being raised organically and their manure are fed to worms. In return, the worms’ droppings, commonly called ”vermicast” becomes the fertilizer for the crops.

 

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Thirty-two technical and support staff of the Biodiversity, Coastal, Wetlands

and Ecotourism Research Center (BCWERC) recently participated in the learning event titled, ‘Good Governance cum Earth Warriors Team Effectiveness Program and Value Orientation Seminar for BCWERC’ last July 26-27, 2017 at the Sotogrande Hotel and Resort, Mactan Island, Lapu-Lapu City.

The two-day activity, spearheaded by the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB), College in Laguna, aims to capacitate the working staff of the Research Bureau and deepen the commitment in carrying out their tasks and responsibilities in the correct manner to promote effective governance. ERDB recognizes the importance of inculcating public service values to all personnel in the bureau including the research centers. The bureau believes that all employees, researchers or technical personnel including administrative and support staff must have the necessary

skills and values to perform in the effective delivery of service to the public.

Resource persons tapped were Atty. Carmelle Baybay-Suson and Ms. Mary Jane F. Concha from the Office of the Ombudsman for the Visayas. Topics discussed were the Roles and Functions of the Office of the Ombudsman; Rules of Procedures in the Office; Graft Prevention Programs/Projects and initiatives; and Common Crimes Committed by Public officials and employees, among others. The interactive lectures enabled to enhance a deeper understanding on the role of government employees and provided venue through which public service values are internalized. Participants had the chance to raise questions and clarifications after the lectures.

BCWERC Center Head, Dr. Alicia L. Lustica in her opening messageacknowledged the efforts of ERDB for coming up with an event that truly supports public service professionalism and ethics. She stressed the significance of human

Good Governance cum Team Effectiveness Programand Value Orientation Seminar for BCWERC held

Photo Ops with BCWERC ‘Earth Warriors’ participants and resource persons during the learning event on ‘Good Governance cum Earth Warriors Team Effectiveness Program and Value Orientation Seminar for BCWERC’ last July 26-27, 2017 at the Sotogrande Hotel and Resort, Mactan Island, Cebu City.

Resource person, Atty. Carmelle Baybay-Suson receives a certificate of appreciation from Dr. Alicia L. Lustica, BCWERC-Center Head and Ms. Marilou C. Arcillas, Chief of the Personnel and Records Section of ERDB

BCWERC workforce was attentive while Mr. Bimbo Cabrera from the DENR HRD Central Office facilitates and gives instructions on the rules of the game.

resource development, that is the value of capacitating and enhancing workforce for the development of work culture, thus help improve employee’s efficiency. Likewise, she emphasized that to become an earth warrior is not that easy. Dr. Lustica said that ‘One should equip him/herself with the necessary tactics and tips on how to get off the ground’.

Ms. Marilou C. Arcillas, Chief of the Personnel and Records Section of ERDB, correspondingly informed and reassured participants on the research center’s involvement in various learning and development events. ‘We need to empower everyone to improve the quality and efficiency of individual tasks, that’s why we assure you that research centers will from now on participate and will be part of the different learning events ERDB will organize,’ said Ms. Arcillas. She also shared a brief overview on House Bill 5707 or the Rightsizing Program of the National Government, which intends to abolish executive offices whose functions deemed either redundant or antiquated.

The ‘Good Governance’ event, which emphasized staff motivation, learning, and development, also capped with structured learning exercises, so-called ‘Earth Warriors Team Effectiveness’. Mr. Bimbo Cabrera from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Central Office in Quezon City facilitated the games and exercises. Participants altogether experienced entertaining games and exercises that develop and test the range of abilities, skills, and behaviors of the group. //alfj BCWERC

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Youth for Environment Schools (YES) Campaign and Ecotour

ERDB on-the-job trainees explored more! As part of

the ERDB Youth program and internship process, 20 college students taking different courses underwent the Youth for Environment Schools (YES) Campaign and Ecotour on July 13, 2017. Through the YES Campaign and Ecotour, they had a glimpse of the Bureau’s wide array of research endeavors in all ecosystems including the forests, coastal zone, freshwater and marine, and urban. They were also equipped with information on the youth environmental advocacies of the DENR, biotechnology, and gender roles in research. Further, they toured at the ERDB’s bamboo and rattan gallery showcasing various uses of these non-timber forest products. From these activities, the ERDB Youth Program Coordinators and the Human Resource Development sought to stimulate their interest on environment-related researches as future environmental stewards of the country. Donnabel A. Elpedes (FERD) and For. Ma. Kristina P. Orpia (OD); photos by Mr. Adriane Patrick G. Villegas

Governor Matugas was delighted to know of the Center’s plan to provide technical assistance to mining companies in their efforts to rehabilitate their mined-out areas. She even offered an office inside the Coastal Resource Management and Tourism Center in Brgy. Hayanggabon in Claver to MDARRC to be the Center’s sub-station in CARAGA Region.

In her message during the exit conference, For. Uddin thanked the mining companies for accommodating and allowing the group to visit the mining sites. “Through the mine visit, we were able to familiarize ourselves with the mining operations and the rehabilitation initiatives of the mining companies. As such, we are now equipped to perform

the mandate as the research arm of the DENR to rehabilitate the mined-out and degraded areas,” For. Uddin said. “I am looking forward to our collaboration to accomplish our common goal which is to rehabilitate mined-out areas through coming up with feasible and workable rehabilitation initiatives,” she added.

It can be recalled that MDARRC also visited the mining sites of Holcim Mining and Development Corporation and the Apex Mining Company in Davao Region in April and the Philex Mining Corporation in Sibutad, Zamboanga del Norte in May of this year. Research proposals on mined-out areas rehabilitation for possible implementation were already submitted for review of the mining companies. Jethrone M. Setenta, MDARRC

MDARRC visits... from page 9 WWRRC celebrates... from page 11

drill seriously because it can save lives, among others.

During the open forum, the WWRRC staff shared their experiences on the 1990 earthquake, when everybody wanted to immediately go home to check on their family members. Thus, it is important to designate an assembly area, where all members of the family will meet after an earthquake. Likewise, sharing of lessons learned and experiences from past earthquake occurrences may also help.

After the learning event, a certificate of appreciation was given to Mr. Frankie Cortez for sharing his knowledge and expertise on disaster and earthquake preparedness. Chita A. Hidalgo, WWRRC

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The month of July is commemorated as National Disaster Consciousness

Month, reframed recently as the National Disaster Resiliency Month. This year’s celebration observes the theme, “Kamalayan sa Kahandaan, Katumbas ay Kaligtasan”.

The Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) in its support for this year’s disaster consciousness advocacy theme organized a day-long learning event on fire and disaster risk preparedness and management for BCWERC personnel last July 28, 2017 at the DENR-7 Conference Hall, Banilad, Mandaue City. The event, designed to the needs of its employees aims to educate the BCWERC staff on the basic knowledge as well as provide important tips on how to prepare, manage, and respond during fire, earthquakes, and other hazards. The essence is to promote awareness on the natural and anthropogenic hazards and to disseminate information on the procedures or measures to be undertaken to address and reduce the adverse effects of such hazards.

Fire Officer 1 Julian R. Cabatingan Jr. of the Mandaue City Fire Department discussed the fundamentals on Fire Prevention and Control. He elaborated on the essential chemistry to generate a fire that feature the quintessential elements of heat, fuel and oxygen, in order to eliminate or minimize the effects of fire that may lead to the risk and loss of lives and properties. FO1 Cabatingan also demonstrated to the participants the proper method to extinguish a fire using

both, the 5-kg chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) and the halon type fire extinguisher. He reminded the participants to remember PASS that stands for Pull, Aim, Squeeze and Sweep as a proper procedure in operating the fire extinguisher.

The rest of the afternoon session was devoted to disaster resiliency with Assistant Training Officer Rizajoy A. Hernandez from the Office of theCivil Defense (OCD) as resourcespeaker. Ms. Hernandez detailed theanatomy of disasters in the country fromtyphoons, floods, volcanic eruptions,and earthquakes and how these riskscan be mitigated through preparation.She tackled on the salient provisionsof Republic Act No. 10121 or thePhilippine Disaster Risk Reductionand Management Act of 2010 thatshifted the national policy from mereresponse to preparedness as a way

BCWERC conducts learning event in observance of the National Disaster Resiliency Month

Left photo: Training Officer, Rizajoy A. Hernandez from the Office of the Civil Defense (OCD) lectures on disaster resiliency. Right photo: Fire Officer Julian R. Cabatingan Jr. (center) of the Mandaue City Fire Department receives his certificate of appreciation. Also in photo are Ms. Marilou Arcillas, ERDB’s Personnel Officer and other BCWERC personnel and senior officials

to manage disasters and the way the disasters are managed from mere response to preparedness. It provides a comprehensive, all-hazard, multi-sectoral, inter-agency, and community-based approach to disaster risk management through the formulation of the National Disaster Risk Management Framework that directs a coherent, integrated, efficient, and responsive disaster risk management approach at all levels. More importantly, R.A. 10121 provides for calamity funds to be used in support of disaster risk reduction or mitigation, prevention, and preparedness activities at all local government levels for the potential occurrence of disasters and not just for response, relief, and rehabilitation efforts. The lecture culminated with a Drop, Cover and Hold earthquake drill as the end-of- session exercise. L A. Corregidor-BCWERC8

FO1 Cabatingan demonstrates the proper method to extinguish a fire using both, the 5-kg chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) and the halon type fire extinguisher

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MDARRC visits mining sites in Surigao del MDARRC visits mining sites in Surigao del MDARRC visits mining sites in Surigao del Norte, widens its scope in rehabilitation of Norte, widens its scope in rehabilitation of Norte, widens its scope in rehabilitation of

mined-out areasmined-out areasmined-out areas

Engr. Roger A. De Dios, Regional Director of MGB XIII, presents the bureau’s core function and the status of mining operations in the region during the courtesy call and technical meeting.

MDARRC personnel visit the biodiversity area of Taganito Mining Company, a 10-year old reforestation project where Acacia mangium thrives.

As part of the Mining and Degraded Areas Rehabilitation Research

Center’s (MDARRC) initiative to widen its scope and to capacitate its technical personnel in the project implementation which focuses on the generation and transfer of technologies to rehabilitate mined-out and degraded areas, the Center visited three mining sites in Claver, Surigao del Norte on July 18-22, 2017. The activity was also in accordance with the Center’s effort to provide first-hand observation of the mining sites and know the current condition of the mining environment that will serve as inputs in developing appropriate Research, Development and Extension (RDE) activities and proposals for mined-out areas.

Twenty-two MDARRC technical personnel and support staff toured the mining sites of Adnama Mining Resources, Incorporated (AMRI) in Brgy. Urbiztondo, Platinum Group Metals Corporation (PGMC) in Brgy. Cagdianao, and the Taganito Mining Corporation (TMC) in Brgy. Taganito.

The three mining companies employ surface mining method to extract lateritic nickel ore that make large portions of soil surface bare and open. Such mining operation creates ground disturbance that results to sedimentation and erosion which leads to siltation of adjacent Kinalablaban Bay.

As part of their restoration efforts, the three mining companies employ different rehabilitation strategies as stipulated

in their Environmental Protection and Enhancement Program (EPEP). Some of their environmental management approaches include planting of Acacia mangium, agoho (Casuarina equisetifolia Linn.) and mankono (Xanthostemon verdugonianus) at the mined-out areas as these species are proven to be tolerant to low fertility soils and planting of grasses such as carabao grass (Paspalum conjugatum) as these are tolerant to lateritic conditions to aid in controlling

soil erosion. In addition, coco coir net is being utilized in disturbed steep slopes to prevent run-off and erosion from heavy rains. However, it was observed that rehabilitation efforts of the visited companies are not intensified.

Aside from the mining companies’ progressive restoration efforts in the disturbed mining areas, MDARRC identified some areas for collaboration through provision of RDE interventions. These include developing science-based rehabilitation strategies that are best suited for the area. Furthermore, the Center presented its RDE program on the rehabilitation of mined-out areas which focuses on the physical, biological and social aspects.

Before the mine tour, MDARRC personnel paid a visit to the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) - CARAGA Region in Surigao City and had a meeting with its Regional Director, Engr. Roger A. De Dios. During the meeting, Ms. Eva C. Bautista, MDARRC RDE Unit Chief, introduced the Center and presented its on-going and proposed projects in line with the Center’s area of excellence.

RD De Dios thanked MDARRC

for visiting Surigao del Norte and considering the mining companies in the province for possible collaboration in research undertakings. He expressed his utmost support in the Center’s desire to help mining companies come up with appropriate technologies and strategies in their rehabilitation initiatives.

Likewise, MDARRC Center Head Alma S. Uddin, who led the group, also visited the office of Governor Sol F. Matugas of Surigao del Norte for a courtesy call and meeting. Forester Uddin presented the mine visit’s agenda and mentioned the MDARRC initiatives that could possibly be applied to the mining companies the group will be visiting.

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Vol. 11 No. 410

On July 20, 2017, UTHRC-TPPU facilitates a hands-on training on plant propagation held at ERDB-UTHRC Clonal Nursery, DOST Compound, Bicutan, Taguig City. Participants comprises of four (4) males and nine (9) female representatives from

Brgy. Sucat, Muntinlupa City and staff of UTHRC-ARD. The activity was undertaken to ensure the success on the adoption of Brgy. Sucat, Muntinlupa City of the ENR technology on “Recommended pollution-absorbent plant species for vertical/urban greening” project. Forester Rey Abadiano, Science Research Specialist I, acted as Resource Person of the activity. Topics during the lecture include plant propagation by seeds and macro-somatic clonal propagation.

The highlight of the activity is on plant propagation through the use of cuttings. Actual processes of said procedure is undertaken by the participants. Afterwards the participants tour the entire DENR-NCR Clonal Nursery like the greenhouse, mechanized nursery and the net houses. In the end, Ms. Evangeline delos Santos, Brgy. Secretary, Brgy. Sucat, Muntinlupa City assures that they will ensure the success of the project pertaining to the establishment of vertical planting structure planted with pollution-absorbent plant species.

Sharing of updates on the ENR related activities being implemented by the LGU’s have been discussed. IEC campaign is the common project being implemented by the LGUs in line with solid waste management. In addition, all LGUs in NCR are aware of the DENR NGP projects. Accordingly, urban greening has been part of the LGUs main agenda.

After the meeting, field visit to the newly established vertical planting structure planted with pollution-absorbent plant species is undertaken. ELTAG members have an actual glimpse of the said project which is being promoted in line with ENR technology adoption. UTHRC

UTHRC-TPPU conducts Hands-on Training on Plant Propagation UTHRC-TPPU conducts Hands-on Training on Plant Propagation UTHRC-TPPU conducts Hands-on Training on Plant Propagation

Hands-on training on seedling production through cuttings and initial planting in Hiko trays

Field visit to the ENR technology project at BMB

For. Abadiano lectures on plant propagation

Vol. 11 No. 4 11

WWRRC celebrates National Disaster and Consciousness Month with an “Earthquake and Disaster Preparedness Learning Event”

The WWRRC in Loakan Road, Baguio City conducted an “Earthquake

and Disaster Preparedness Learning Event” followed by an Earthquake Drill in coordination with the Office of the Civil Defense, Department of National Defense (OCD-DND) at the WWRRC Conference Hall on July 17, 2017. This year’s theme is “ 4K- Kamalayan, Kahandaan, Katumbas ay Kaligtasan” in relation to the PHIVOLCS warning on the possibility that a “BIG ONE” earthquake may occur any time based on earthquake historical records. Relative to this, PHIVOLCS is encouraging all public and private sectors, schools and other establishments to conduct a “Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill”.

The disaster preparedness and earthquake drill is relevant not only for individual safety but also necessary for other family members as well. This kind of preparedness is vital because everyone may experience negative effects when earthquakes and other calamities may arise like, fires, liquefaction, land subsidence, landslide and avalanche, road destruction, and tsunami in coastal areas, among others.

The learning event is timely, considering the recent recorded earthquakes in other parts of the country specifically in Bohol and in Visayas provinces. In addition, the country has recently commemorated the 27th year Anniversary of the July 1990 Luzon Earthquake that affected lives, properties and infrastructures mostly of Northern Luzon provinces.

Mr. Frankie Cortez, the Operations Officer from the OCD-DND served as the resource person, wherein he discussed disaster preparedness and earthquake drill for everybody’s safety. According to him, “SAFETY FIRST” is the keyword that must be borne in mind. Worrying too much would not help, instead it may aggravate the situation.

Included in the presentation were the scenarios after the 1990 Luzon earthquake with a 7.8 intensity that greatly affected Baguio City and adjacent provinces, like number of fatalities, collapsed hotels and buildings, roads, and bridges, among others. The same catastrophe may happen anytime, thus the need to be ready and to know what to do.

Mr. Cortez also presented simulation intensity in various existing fault lines in the Cordillera Administrative Region and adjacent provinces based on PHIVOLCS

historical data. He gave some important reminders during an earthquake which include the following: • Be alert in observing the safe areas

and exit points wherever you are.Remember that calamity may strikeanytime and anywhere. Safe areasare free from falling objects, withinthe strong beams of buildings,tables or any place where you canimmediately duck and cover fromany harm.

• Don’t panic. We need to be on ourright senses, to be able to think right.

• Duck/Drop, Cover and Hold duringearthquake protecting particularlyyour head especially the back of yourneck as the most delicate part of thebody.

• Find a way out. Just after the firstshake or an earthquake, walk calmlyand find a way out. Make sure tokeep out from dangerous areaslike high-rise buildings, electricalposts, hanging objects/frames, glasswindows, electrical posts and the

The WWRRC personnel together with the resource speaker.

Mr. Frankie Cortez, Operations Officer of the Office of Civil Defense of the Cordillera Regional Office gives a lecture on disaster preparedness.

like.• Share Information. Share the

important information “Duck, Coverand Hold”, to immediate familymembers & friends for awareness.

• Plan for a place where themembers of the family will meetafter an earthquake or calamity.Communication lines may be cut off.

• Proceed to the Assembly Point.After the earthquake, when more orless the situation has calmed down,immediately go to the designatedassembly point for head counting.After the lecture proper and

orientation, the office successfully conducted the actual earthquake drill under the supervision of the resource speaker. He then gave some important reminders such as; everyone must veer away from glass windows/doors as these might break during earthquakes and can cause wounds, hanging frames must be avoided so as not to cause undue injury, and must observe to take the

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Vol. 11 No. 412

The Mining and Degraded Areas Rehabilitation Research Center

(MDARRC) conducted an In-House Review of On-going and Completed Projects/Studies on July 5-6, 2017 at Molave Hotel, Tagum City, Davao del Norte to evaluate all on-going and recently completed projects/studies of the Center which was attended by its twenty-one technical and support staff.

Five ongoing RDE studies under the projects on Generation and Transfer of Technologies to Rehabilitate Degraded Ancestral Domain, Multiple-Use Zone in Protected Area and Community-Based Forest Management (CBFM) Area and Generation and Transfer of Technologies to Rehabilitate Mined-Out Areas, three projects under Client-Based Technology Transfer and Extension Services for Environment and Natural Resources (ENR) Management, one special project and two completed studies under the project on Generation and Transfer of Technologies to Rehabilitate Degraded Mangrove Areas were presented and evaluated.

Also presented during the two-day activity was status report on the maintenance of Seed Production Areas (SPA) and Individual Plus Trees (IPT) Sites in regions XI and XII and the Production of Quality Planting Materials (PQPM) under the National Greening Program (NGP).

Serving as evaluators were Dr. Ma. Lourdes Q. Moreno, Rosemarie P. Lansigan, For. Digno C. Garcia and Ann Valerie V. Gillardo of the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB). Also with them were OIC-Chief

Marie Abbie Gail L. Dela Cueva, Alvin Olvida and Jonathan Alexander Galang of the ERDB- Planning and Management Information Services Unit (PMISU).

Dr. Moreno, chairperson of the panel of evaluators, encouraged the MDARRC researchers to focus more on preparing research proposals that are in line with the Center’s area of excellence. She further encouraged the Center to intensify its IEC activities in all projects/studies to enhance MDARRC’s visibility and credibility and to promote and disseminate research-based information to encourage utilization of various ERDB-MDARRC technologies.

Meanwhile, MDARRC Center Head Alma S. Uddin took the opportunity to thank the evaluators for sharing their expertise and knowledge to improve the implementation of the projects/studies towards its aim as the Center of Excellence. She further challenged MDARRC researchers to identify more researchable areas related to the

MDARRC conducts in-house review of ongoing and MDARRC conducts in-house review of ongoing and MDARRC conducts in-house review of ongoing and completed projects/studiescompleted projects/studiescompleted projects/studies

Left photo: The MDARRC staff and ERDB in-house review team during the In-House Review of Ongoing and Completed Projects/Studies held on July 5-6, 2017 at Molave Hotel, Tagum City, Davao del Norte. Right photo: MDARRC Center Head Alma S. Uddin welcomes the participants during the in-house review.

Center’s area of excellence for future undertakings and to really put their best foot forward.

On the second day of the activity, evaluators, study leaders and some technical staff visited the two study sites in Compostela Valley province for the studies on the Generation and Transfer of Technologies to Rehabilitate CBFM Area and Generation and Transfer of Technologies to Rehabilitate Mine-Waste Area. The field visit aimed to monitor and offer first-hand observation of the study sites.

The in-house review of on-going and completed projects/studies is held annually to determine the progress of newly approved, ongoing and completed RDE programs and projects in terms of activities undertaken relative to the attainment of objectives and expected outputs and to identify problems met during the implementation and recommend specific courses of action. Jethrone M. Setenta, MDARRC

Vol. 11 No. 4 13

BCWERC joins Cebu Garden Club in promoting urban ecotourism

Photo opportunity with members of the Cebu Garden Club

Dr. Alicia L. Lustica lectures on “Urban Ecotourism and Gardening to Address Climate in a Changing World” to the members of the Cebu Garden Club.

To show their strong support to Cebu’s various environmental advocacies,

the Cebu Garden Club (CGC) recently collaborated with the Biodiversity, Coastal, Wetlands and Ecotourism Research Center (BCWERC) to provide its members relevant information on recent environmental issues, thus enable them to actively promote greener and healthier environments inside and outside their home.

In view of this, the Club invited Dr. Alicia L. Lustica, Center Head of BCWERC to promote environmental education and discuss the topic, ‘Urban Ecotourism and Gardening to Address Climate in a Changing World.’ The lecture cum CGC monthly meeting was conducted last July 3, 2017 at the Laguna Garden Cafē, Ayala Terraces, Cebu City. Thirty-six (36) members attended the activity led by Ms. Ely Carloman, the Cebu Garden Club President.

CGC, the green-thumbed women, according to Ms. Carloman have one thing in common. They love to putter around their gardens, nurture their plants, and in the process assist Mother Nature care for the environment. Aside from engaging themselves in several civic duties, the group is also involved in a range of activities that helped protect and conserve Cebu’s natural resources.

Members, although engaged in various forms of advocacy make it to a point to attend to their monthly meeting to keep themselves informed specially on social and environmental issues.

Dr. Lustica, during her lecture stated that it is very important to ensure that tourists will experience more than just the key urban landmark attractions. She emphasized that every city in this country should also provide alternative ecological destinations, such as attractive gardens and landscapes, that both local and foreign tourists will always look forward visiting. However, urban ecotourism destinations are not commonly available therefore, she challenged Cebu Garden Club members to look at some relatively simple way of developing sustainable urban ecotourism through gardening in a changing climate.

Included in Dr. Lustica’s lecture were topics on Urban and Traditional Ecotourism, Its Challenges and Opportunities, Gardening in a Changing Climate, Types of Urban Ecotourism Gardens, Creative Ideas in Maintaining a Garden, and Eco-Friendly Gardening Ideas, among others.

Aside from coastal and wetland resources management, BCWERC of the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) aims to continuously

boost its effort in providing technical assistance to clientele on biodiversity conservation, ecotourism development, which includes promotion of urban ecotourism. Ann F. Jumawan, BCWERC

Vol. 11 No. 414

Children with disabilities from SPED Center, Baguio City visited

the Learning Ecopark for Advocating Resources and Nature (LEARN) Ecopark in celebration of the 39th National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation Week on July 17-23, 2017. The visit was made possible through the joint effort and guidance of DENR-CAR and the Watersheds and Water Resources Research Center (WWRRC). A total of 22 hearing and learning-impaired students (14 males and 8 females) were welcomed at the research center. The children learned from the environmental videos on watersheds and water resources which were shown to them. They enjoyed the educational ecowalk activity which featured games such as “find and point at the national tree, leaf, and flower of the Philippines”, “getting to know local tree species, palm species and bamboo species of Northern Luzon” and “name that tree or technology”. The children also got to know the rescued monkey which WWRRC personnel named “Sabas”. The monkey is being cared for in the rescue center of DENR-CAR located inside the LEARN Ecopark of WWRRC.

To reinforce the connection of the students to the Benguet Pine Forest as part of their environment, WWRRC

Children with disabilities celebrate National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation

Week at WWRRC’s Learn Ecopark

BCWERC researchers conduct information advocacy at Barangay Cabugao, Batan, Aklan

Left photo: Ms. Minda Odsey of WWRRC facilitating the LEARN games through sign language. Right photo: Hearing- impaired students as they present a dance number to the WWRRC personnel.

One of the BCWERC science researchers conducting a lecture in Rizal Rodriguez National High School and Cabugao Elementary School in Brgy. Cabugao, Batan.

allowed the students to plant Benguet pine trees (Pinus kesiya) in an area within the arboretum of the LEARN Ecopark. The students plan to visit the area annually to monitor the growth of the trees they have planted and to clean and weed the surroundings.

To show their appreciation for the fun that they had, the hearing and learning-

impaired students presented a dance number. The WWRRC personnel were amazed to see them dancing to the music despite their disabilities. Their visit ended with a volleyball game between the hearing-impaired and the learning-impaired students. Minda S. Odsey, WWRRC

Science researchers from the Biodiversity, Coastal, Wetlands

and Ecotourism Research Center (BCWERC) of the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) organized an Information, Education and Communication (IEC) advocacy for the elementary and high school students in Batan, Aklan last July 12, 2017. Fifty (52) Grade-6 students from CabugaoElementary School and forty-nine (49)Grade-10 students from Rizal RodriguezNational High School participated inthe IEC campaign which supportsBCWERC’s project study, ‘Result-basedAssessment of Rehabilitated Disaster-Affected Mangrove and Beach ForestAreas in the Visayas.’

Ms. Dinah Favila, BCWERC Iloilo Station In-Charge led the team and presented relevant data and information on Global Warming/Climate Change, Mangroves Ecosystems, and the Results of Benchmarking Activities conducted in Brgy. Cabugao, Batan, Aklan. With Ms. Favila is Forester Emma Germano, In-Charge of BCWERC Tacloban Station, along with Mr. Jon Alfonso Horvidalla

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Vol. 11 No. 4 15

DENR officials and staff visit the DENR officials and staff visit the DENR officials and staff visit the rehabilitated mined-out and waste dump rehabilitated mined-out and waste dump rehabilitated mined-out and waste dump areas of Bagacay Mines, Hinabangan, areas of Bagacay Mines, Hinabangan, areas of Bagacay Mines, Hinabangan, SamarSamarSamar

Amongst new greenery. ASEC Nonita Caguioa (4th from right), ERDB Director Henry Adornado (3rd from right), BCWERC Center Head Dr. Alicia Lustica (center) and other ERDB and MGB staff pose for posterity amongst the new vegetation in a former mine waste dump site during a visit in Bagacay Mines, Hinabangan, Samar last August 8, 2017.

New greenery. This portion of the former mine waste dump site in Bagacay Mines, Hinabangan, Samar now teems with Mountain Agoho (Casuarina rumphiana), Narra (Pterocarpus indicus), Acacia auriculiformis, A. mangium and Vetiver grass found to thrive in the degraded mined-out areas.

The degraded environs of Bagacay Mines in the town of Hinabangan,

Samar appears headed for a new lease in life with the implementation of a collaborative rehabilitation project between the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) and the Mines and Geo-Sciences Bureau (MGB). This joint mined-out project by ERDB and MGB using science-based phytoremediation measures aimed to restore the productive potential and aesthetic quality of the site for copper and pyrite minerals for more than 35 years until 1992. DENR Assistant Secretary for Staff Bureaus Nonita S. Caguioa and ERDB Director Henry A. Adornado, together with BCWERC Center Head Alicia L. Lustica and the ERDB and MGB technical staff inspected and monitored the growth and status of revegetation done in the area by ERDB researchers last August 8, 2017.

Acacia mangium, Acacia auriculiformis, Mountain Agoho, Narra and Vetiver grass performed best in the mined waste dumpsites revegetation experiments that spanned from 2008 to 2015. Based on this development, the ERDB and MGB met to collaborate on the expansion of the rehabilitation using the successful phytoremediation technologies developed by the R&D study.

In view of this, ERDB, MGB and DENR Region 8 officials together with ASEC Caguioa agreed to meet last August 9, 2017 at the DENR Regional Office, Tacloban City following the Bagacay visit. Forester Gregorio Santos Jr. and Mr. Angelito B. Exconde of ERDB and Engr. Marcial Mateo of MGB presented the updates of the Bagacay Mines Rehabilitation Project and thoroughly discussed issues pertaining to said project. One vital concerns discussed involved unreasonable restrictions imposed by the Privatization Management Office, which holds ownership of the Bagacay Mines in terms of entry and conduct of reforestation and revegetation activities in the mined-out area. Director Adornado said that at the very least, pending the approval of the Memorandum of Agreement between the PMO and MGB, the PMO should allow ERDB to plant the remaining plantable 24,000 seedlings including care and maintenance within a certain period in 2017. Meanwhile, a higher-level discussion between the Secretaries of DENR and the Department of Finance, which has supervision over the PMO, was proposed. The discussion also includes other issues involving monitoring and financial concerns. L.A. Corregidor-BCWERC

Vol. 11 No. 416

A ‘Regional Cascading Workshop on the Philippine Biodiversity Strategy

and Action Plan (PBSAP)’ was conducted by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), spearheaded by the Biodiversity Management Bureau (BMB) last July 10-14, 2017 at Hotel Essencia in Dumaguete City. The activity is one among the series of ‘Cascading Workshops for PBSAP’ held in clusters to ensure that the specific action points integrates and mainstreams into the respective plans and programs of DENR.

Heads and representatives from the DENR Central Office and attached Bureaus joined the DENR Visayas team comprising Assistant Regional Directors (ARD) for Technical Services, Planning Officers, Conservation Development Division (CDD) Chiefs, and technical staff. Officials and representatives from other government agencies (OGAs), Indigenous People (IP), and the National Government Office (NGO), particularly the Philippine Biodiversity Conservation Foundation, Inc. also joined the event.

PBSAP, the country’s road map in conserving biodiversity and critical ecosystem, addresses biodiversity loss and focuses on specific action points across the nine (9) thematic areas of forest, inland wetlands, caves, coastal and marine, protected areas, access and

benefit sharing, urban diversity, invasive alien species, and agro biodiversity.

Dr. Alicia L. Lustica, head of the Biodiversity, Coastal, Wetlands and Ecotourism Research Center (BCWERC) of the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) attended the event and provided substantial inputs during the discussion-workshop and plenary sessions. Geared towards enhancing resilience of wetlands and coastal areas, BCWERC core functions primarily support biodiversity conservation and ecotourism development in the Visayas Region. Thus, ERDB-BCWERC activities will be included into some of the relevant thematic areas, according to Dr. Lustica. She reported that ERDB’s involvement as identified by BMB, would similarly involve projects on Capacity Building on cave assessment; water birds census; and bird, terrestrial, and marine identification. Commitments also include identification of lead agencies in terms of monitoring compliance to different aspects of PBSAP, exploration of additional wetland areas for designations as RAMSAR sites, and harmonization of functions among DENR unit such as mangroves. In addition, ERDB likewise commits to enhance studies on native species, which can sequester carbon and other toxic substances.

PBSAP regional cascading workshop for the Visayas cluster held

Dr. Alicia L. Lustica, BCWERC Center Head attended the ‘Regional Cascading Workshop on PBSAP’ last July 10-14, 2017. She commits on BCWERC activities to be included into some of the relevant thematic areas of PBSAP.

PBSAP envisions that “by 2028, biodiversity is restored and rehabilitated, valued, effectively managed, secured, maintaining ecosystem services to sustain healthy, resilient Filipino communities and delivering benefits to all.

The 3-day activity culminated with a learning visit at the Apo Island Protected Landscape and Seascape (AIPLS) in Dauin, Negros Oriental and BalinsasayaoTwin Lake Natural Park (BTLNP) in Sibulan, Negros Oriental. BCWERC

Contributions from all employees are welcome as per guidelines set in ERDB Memo dated Aug. 31, 2007. The ERDB Info Journal is produced bimonthly in coordination with all offices, Divisions and Units of the ERDB.

Executive Advisers : Henry A. AdornadoBighani M. Manipula

Editorial Adviser : Veronica O. SinohinManaging Editor : Marla V. CambayLayout : Liberato A. BacodCirculation : Marilou C. Villones

Catalina dM. AldemitaEduardo M. Tolentino

Photographer : Gino S. LafortezaPrinting : Celso A. Luna

Vol 11 No. 4

July - August 2017

JOURNALINFO

and Mr. Crispian David Castro. The advocacy-campaign was also attended in and supported by the School Head of Rizal Rodriguez National High School, Mr. Reginald C. Vanancio; Barangay Captain of Cabugao, Batan, Aklan, Hon. Rizal J. Rodriguez, Jr.; and Mr. Ronel D. Flaviano.

Prior to and after the lectures and presentations, the group required students to respond to the pretest-posttest questions to establish a base measure of student’s knowledge and understanding on topics such as climate change and mangrove ecosystems. Questionnaires contain the same set of questions and post-test results revealed higher marks, an indication that IEC advocacy has been effective.

The event culminated with some fun-filled activities such as games and icebreakers that provided a mood truly vibrant. Aside from being entertained, students also expressed positive remarks and appreciation as their knowledge

on climate change expanded and they as well understood the importance of mangrove ecosystem.

Cabugao was one among the barangays in Batan, Aklan heavily affected during Typhoon Yolanda. Barangay Cabugao is a beneficiary of the Mangrove and Beach Forest

BCWERC researchers conduct... from page 14

ERDB senior citizens... from page 14

Development Project and has been identified as the project site for the Results-Based Assessment of Rehabilitated Disaster-Affected Mangrove and Beach Forest Areas. The same advocacy campaign will also be conducted in the identified areas in Region 7 and 8 scheduled this 3rd quarter, CY 2017. BCWERC

The organic products were 95% sold to their different clients and 5% recycled for their own use. The farm raised 75% lettuce and 25% for other agricultural crops such as upo, string beans, Chinese pechay, sili, sayote, kangkong and other herbs (as additives for the food preparation).

The field visit was very informative and educational where the learnings of the participants can be shared with other senior citizens and co-employees. Aurora S. Jose, TTD