Laoag city: The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has awarded 1,015 land patents to qualified beneficiaries in the Ilocos Region, urging the new land title holders to use and manage their properties responsibly.

According to Philippines News Agency, the distribution event was held on Thursday in Laoag City, where Environment Secretary Juan Miguel Cuna emphasized the significance of the awarded patents. These patents, which cover agricultural, residential, and special categories, were granted to beneficiaries from Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, and Pangasinan under the department's Luntiang Bukas program. Cuna highlighted that these titles recognize the years of dedication and patience by families who have cultivated land, built homes, and raised families while awaiting formal ownership.

In his speech, Cuna conveyed, 'Your dream is also our dream for you. It is also the dream of President Bongbong Marcos for all Filipinos. Because when families have security, communities become stronger. When communities become stronger, local economies grow. And when people are empowered, the entire nation moves forward.' He stressed that securing ownership comes with the responsibility to properly care for the land and protect the resources that sustain them.

Cuna reminded the beneficiaries of their duty to care for forests, rivers, mountains, and coastlines, ensuring that future generations inherit not only secure property rights but also a healthy environment. He urged the new landowners to plant trees, protect water sources, maintain cleanliness, practice responsible waste management, and prevent illegal dumping.

Furthermore, Cuna called on the landowners to support conservation and greening efforts in their barangays and communities, teaching their children to appreciate nature. He emphasized that using land 'productively, responsibly, and sustainably' can contribute to creating greener and more resilient communities.

The event also introduced DENR Express, providing residents access to land-related transactions, environmental permitting and compliance assistance, geohazard assessment services, legal consultations, and other DENR services, all in one venue.