Quezon city: Newly appointed Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Secretary Juan Miguel Cuna has committed to enhancing systems and streamlining processes as he assumes leadership from outgoing chief Raphael Lotilla. In a formal turnover ceremony, Cuna emphasized the importance of building on the department's existing foundations.
According to Philippines News Agency, Cuna highlighted that the DENR already has robust programs and dedicated professionals. His focus will be on improving efficiency and ensuring that the services provided align effectively with the needs of communities and the country. Cuna stated, "We are not here to reinvent the wheel. Our task is to strengthen these foundations, improve the efficiency of our systems, and ensure that the services we provide resound effectively to the needs of our communities and our country."
One of Cuna's priorities is to review and enhance internal processes to ensure that environmental governance supports both sustainability and economic development. He noted the critical role the DENR plays in projects requiring environmental permits, such as tourism development and infrastructure initiatives. "We have to start with re-evaluating our processes, definitely. I think Secretary Popo has already started this," Cuna remarked.
Cuna further emphasized the importance of environmental stewardship in tandem with national development, particularly as the country faces increasing environmental pressures and climate-related risks. He noted, "We have to make ourselves significant in that sense. There are so many ways, by improving our processes, taking care of our tourist destinations, anything that would end up job generation. Very important."
Outgoing Secretary Lotilla, in his farewell address, expressed gratitude to officials and personnel for their support. He referred to recent environmental incidents that tested the department's systems and reminded DENR personnel of the real-world impact of environmental protection. "Regulations that must not waver, standards that do not bend, and institutions that are prepared not only to respond, but to figure," Lotilla stated, as he transitions to his new role as Philippine Ambassador to the Holy See.
