COTABATO CITY — Another set of Pollution Control Officers (PCOs) in the BARMM engaged in a training course spearheaded by the Environment Management Services (EMS) of the Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources, and Energy (MENRE) – BARMM, in collaboration with Al-Khalifa Environmental Consultancy Services, last 3-5 October 2022 to enhance their knowledge about the Philippine environmental laws and regulations and their application in their respective areas of practice.

The training course for the forty-two (42) PCOs focused on the implementation of environmental laws such as the Presidential Decree 1586 (Environmental Impact Statement System), Republic Acts 9275 (Clean Water Act), 8749 (Clean Air Act), and 6969 (Toxic Substances and Hazardous and Nuclear Wastes Control Act).

“More than learning something from this training course, I pray that you will put into practice and application the environmental concepts and knowledge that was shared to you by our speakers,” MENRE Bangsamoro Director General Atty. Badr E. Salendab said.

“Environmental protection can’t be done by MENRE alone. The help from our stakeholders is much needed for this cause,” he added.

EMS key officials, led by their Director Jalani M. Pamlian, successfully executed the capacity development and served as resource speakers on various environmental topics. Since most of the participating PCOs come from the health sector, as mentioned by DG Salendab, they are urged to maintain their environment clean to promote better health for everyone in or near that environment as well.

One of the basic qualification requirements for PCO accreditation includes a completed basic PCO Training Course by the EMB, or EMS for BARMM, or any EMB/EMS-recognized training institution. Pursuant to DENR Administrative Order No. 2014-02 (citing Letter of Instructions No. 588), all entities discharging or emitting pollutants are required to designate a PCO who shall be a technical person knowledgeable in pollution control or environmental protection.