The provincial government of Negros Occidental, through the Provincial Environment Management Office (PEMO), joined Oceana Philippines at the opening of the exhibit, entitled “Our Coastal Greenbelts, Our National Treasure”, at the National Museum of Natural History in Manila July 16.
Negros Occidental is being featured as the first province to establish a Network of Coastal Greenbelt Zones in 10 local government units. It recently enacted an ordinance to expand the coastal greenbelt network to the entire province.
PEMO head, Atty. Julie Ann Bedrio, represented Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson at the opening of the exhibit Tuesday; it will run until Aug. 2.
In his message, Lacson said that Negros Occidental is proud and, at the same time, humbled to be at the forefront of the environmental mission.
He also thanked Oceana for giving the province a special citation during the 2023 Para El Mar.
“While it is true that our province is the first to establish a network of local greenbelt zones in the country, spanning 10 LGUs, for me, the recognition from Oceana, while commending our efforts, also serves as a reminder of the need to establish more greenbelt zones in other parts of our province,” Lacson said.
He said this journey has been one of learning, adaptation, and progress, and that establishing a network of greenbelt zones involved close collaboration with local governments, communities, and environmental organizations.
“We have worked hand in hand to plant and nurture mangroves, restore degraded areas, and ensure that these vital ecosystems thrive once again. The positive impacts of these efforts are already evident,” Lacson said in a Capitol press release.
“Coastal areas that were once vulnerable to natural disasters are now more resilient. Marine life is returning, and local communities are witnessing the benefits of healthier ecosystems. Our experience in Negros Occidental serves as a testament to what can be achieved when there is a shared vision and a collective effort.
“However, our work is far from complete. The challenges we face in coastal management are complex and multifaceted. This is why we support the passage of the legislation that will provide a comprehensive framework for the sustainable management of our coastal resources, ensuring that the gains we have made are not only preserved but also enhanced,” he added. ||
