The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) launched its Permitting on Wheels (POW) program nationwide, with the Environmental Management Bureau–Negros Island Region (EMB-NIR) rolling out environmental services in the province of Siquijor recently.
The initiative was aimed at bringing government environmental services closer to communities, making it easier for stakeholders to process permits and comply with environmental regulations without traveling to regional offices, the EMB-NIR said.
The Permitting on Wheels program primarily targets micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), that often encounter logistical and financial challenges in securing environmental clearances due to distance from processing offices.
Through this initiative, DENR aims to strengthen environmental compliance while supporting local economic growth by making regulatory services more accessible and efficient for stakeholders.
Numerous business owners and establishment operators actively participated in the two-day event held at the Siquijor Capitol to process their environmental permits, and seek technical assistance from DENR personnel.
The activity in Siquijor was led by EMB-NIR OIC director Vicente Losbañes, with DENR-NIR regional executive director Charlie Fabre, Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB)-NIR OIC director Engr. Benjamin Espejo, and other DENR and Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office officials. ||
