Masbate: The Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Environmental Management Bureau in Bicol (DENR-EMB-5) has introduced a year-round "Permitting on Wheels" program aimed at bringing essential government permit services to remote areas across the region. This initiative is designed to cater to communities with limited access or poor connectivity, thereby facilitating easier access to necessary permits.
According to Philippines News Agency, EMB-5 Director Geri-Geronimo Sa±ez emphasized that the program prioritizes underserved areas by streamlining the permit process. "This June 25-26, it will be in Palanas, Masbate. It's far from Masbate City. As long as there is limited access or poor connectivity, those are the areas we prioritize. This is a big help for them," he stated during an interview.
The "Permitting on Wheels" program will continue its scheduled activities through December, visiting various provinces: Siruma, Camarines Sur, on July 15-16; Bulan, Sorsogon, on August 12-13; Daet, Camarines Norte, on September 23-24; Caramoan, Camarines Sur, on October 14-15; Iriga City, Camarines Sur, on November 11-12; and Tabaco City, Albay, on December 2-3.
The initiative recently made its presence felt in Catanduanes, effectively addressing clients' permitting needs. "It includes how to access the online system. Someone will teach them in Tagalog or English. We tackle connectivity issues and explain the purpose of the company registration system. That is how 'Permitting on Wheels' works - to guide them. It's not that you go there and your permit will be approved on the spot; it's more about how to properly submit reports online," Sa±ez explained.
Clients in these areas can now avoid traveling to regional offices for permits and clearances. During the program's activities, they receive guidance on submitting necessary documentation for various permits, including tree-cutting permits, chainsaw permits, land-related concerns, foreshore lease agreements, among others. Sa±ez added, "So, it's good that it's a one-stop shop. That's why there is a table from PENRO, there's Mines, then EMB."
