COTABATO CITY — In response to the distinct challenges and context of the Bangsamoro region, the Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources and Energy (MENRE) presented the Regional Sustainable Forest Management Act (RSFMA) at the MENRE Executive Building on April 24.

In 2003, the Bangsamoro region enacted the groundbreaking Regional Sustainable Forest Management Act (RSFMA), also known as the Muslim Mindanao Autonomy Act No. 161. This pioneering legislation marked the Philippines’ first step towards sustainable forest management. Originally crafted for the now-defunct Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, the RSFMA was implemented with its accompanying Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR). However, the ratification of the Bangsamoro Organic Law presents new challenges for environmental and natural resource (ENR) management in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). Recognizing this, MENRE aims to update the provisions and legislation of the RSFMA to ensure its continued effectiveness within the BARMM conditions.

“If I can suggest what we need to do, that is to incorporate and align it with the provisions of Bangsamoro Organic Law and the unique structure of BARMM. Also, we have to reflect on the ‘moral governance,’ and the significant developments in the area of forest or the environment in general from the time of the passage of the law, which was in 2003, and now it’s 2024,” Bangsamoro Director General Atty. Badr E. Salendab suggested in his opening remarks.

The presentation delved into key topics, including the current state of BARMM’s forests, its challenges, and how conservation and rehabilitation efforts can be integrated with Islamic principles. Additionally, future directions and development plans were outlined.

Consultant Alindatu K. Pagayao expressed in his speech, “21 years after its enactment, we must assess if MMAA 161 remains relevant and aligned with RA 11054. Updates and adjustments are crucial to ensure the RSFMA effectively addresses BARMM’s current environmental needs within the RA 11054 framework.”

The RSFMA seeks to protect and conserve the remaining natural forests, rehabilitate the denuded forestland, and develop, utilize, and manage these resources sustainably, guided by the principles of Shariah customary Adat laws, and multi-sectoral participation, among others.

Director Abdul-Jalil S. Umngan of MENRE’s Forest Management Services (FMS) emphasized the forest sector’s pivotal role in shaping the community, region, and state. He highlighted the interconnectedness of forests and public lands with wildlife, biodiversity, mining, and illegal occupancy.

The RSFMA presentation convened the division/section chiefs and technical staff from the FMS and Consultants, facilitating a comprehensive update of the Regional Sustainable Management Act.

This initiative by the FMS, with the guidance of Minister Akmad A. Brahim, aims to bolster the Ministry’s effort toward sustainable forest management in BARMM. By updating RSFMA, MENRE aims to ensure a greener, healthier forest in the region while ensuring support for the well-being of the Bangsamoro people.