LAMITAN CITY, Basilan — The province of Basilan marked a major milestone in ENRE governance with the groundbreaking ceremony for the new Provincial Environment, Natural Resources, and Energy Office (PENREO) building in the Provincial Government Center in Lamitan City today, September 17. Spanning over 2,000 square meters, the modern facility aims to enhance the province’s capacity to protect its environment and natural resources, and explore potential energy resources.
Deputy Minister of Environment, Natural Resources, and Energy Muslima A. Asmawil, who hails from Basilan, and PENRE Officer Marietta S. Ladjiman led the ceremony, celebrating the project’s significance for Basilan’s sustainable development.
“[The new building] will be a physical manifestation of our shared vision, a place where ideas are born and collaboration thrives,” the Deputy Minister said.
“Nararapat na magkaisa tayo sa ating layunin kung paano mapa-improve ang ating probinsya at ating kalikasan,” she added.
The PENREO building, funder under the General Appropriations Act of the Bangsamoro (GAAB) for FY 2024, is expected to serve as a center for ENRE projects in Basilan, particularly those related to reforestation, land management, waste management, biodiversity conservation, geosciences development, and energy management. This facility will enhance the province’s capacity to enforce environmental laws and manage natural resources more effectively.
“This development is not only for us here in the provincial office but more importantly for the people of the Bangsamoro and our environment,” PENREO Ladjiman said.
Anticipating the fulfillment of these infrastructure developments for the Ministry, Administrative and Finance Services Director Al-Sharif M. Tamburani also envisions a workplace that’s conducive to better provision of quality public service.
Local leaders, represented by Provincial Administrator Manny A. Muarip from the provincial government, expressed hope that the new PENREO building will solidify Basilan’s position as a leader in sustainable environmental practices in the region.
Expressing their additional support during the groundbreaking ceremony were Chief Administrative Officer Rowaida D. Lalang, Chief Planning Officer Jessie S. Ondoy, Community ENRE Officers Ma. Pilar N. Tawasil and Ronie A. Hantian, and Bids and Awards Committee Secretariat Suad Nul and Noraisa Sangki.
The infrastructure project aligns with the broader goal of ensuring that the province’s economic development goes hand-in-hand with responsible stewardship of its environment and natural resources.
