COTABATO CITY – In an effort to enhance the capability of Forest and Palaw Rangers to effectively safeguard the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao’s (BARMM) natural resources, the Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources, and Energy (MENRE) – BARMM, through its Maguindanao Provincial ENRE Office (PENREO), conducted an orientation on November 16, at Diamond Hall, Em Manor, Cotabato City.

During the briefing, MENRE Minister Akmad A. Brahim underscored the collaborative nature of the event, saying, “Today, we have the opportunity to engage in a collaborative brainstorming session with representatives from various MENRE services who have gathered to provide valuable insights and expertise.”

Participants were introduced to the current state of Maguindanao’s forests during the orientation. The discussion also covered various forestry laws, such as the Revised Forestry Code of the Philippines, DENR Administrative Order No. 97-32, the Chainsaw Act of 2002, regulations governing the transportation of forest products, and the Wildlife Act. Overall, the orientation provided a comprehensive overview of the important topics related to forestry in the region.

Forester Lauban S. Abdul, the PENRE Officer of Maguindanao, delivered the opening remarks and provided useful advice to the participants on fieldwork. He highlighted the importance of being able to identify changes and potential threats as protectors of nature. “It is critical to be aware of changes and potential dangers to safeguard our environment,” stated PENREO Abdul.

Furthermore, the orientation shifted to an open forum in the afternoon, focusing on active discussions and enriching participants’ understanding.

The orientation was also graced by CENRE Officer – 1st District Forester Faisal U. Akmad, MPA, CENRE Officer – 2nd District Forester Datumama K. Makartur, MPA, and Chief Planning Officer Jessie C. Ondoy. Representatives from FMS, including Foresters Czarina M. Kunso, Datudaud B. Mangalangkat, Aladin Ismael, and Chief Guiamel D. Abdul, were also present. Additionally, Lady Ayessa Allon from BERDS joined the gathering, along with other PENRE personnel, foresters, and forest and palaw rangers from both districts.

MENRE remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting the region’s biodiversity by empowering its personnel through enhanced skills and fostering a collaborative environment, thereby ensuring the sustainable use of its natural resources for the benefit of the Bangsamoro people.