DENR-PENRO Cotabato, NDKC Conduct 3rd Quarter Environmental Forum
By: Aecey Dano and Jian Rojo
KIDAPAWAN CITY, COTABATO — With the theme “Youth for Nature: Understanding Environmental Laws and Strengthening Environmental Stewardship,” the Department of Environment and Natural Resources–Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (DENR-PENRO) Cotabato, in partnership with Notre Dame of Kidapawan College (NDKC), conducted the 3rd Quarter Environmental Forum on September 18, 2026, at the NDKC College Library.
The forum brought together student leaders to deepen their understanding of environmental laws and strengthen their commitment to environmental stewardship.
The program opened with preliminary activities, followed by the opening remarks of Mr. Rico E. Nonles, OIC Director of Student Affairs. Ms. Aises Joy C. Abuyan, Land Management Inspector, provided an overview of the forum and its objectives.
The first session, facilitated by Mr. Johamed Penduma, Senior Environmental Management Specialist, focused on Republic Act No. 9003, or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000. The discussion highlighted the roles and responsibilities of the DENR, local government units, waste generators, and the National Solid Waste Management Commission, with emphasis on proper waste segregation and responsible solid waste management.
The forum continued with a discussion of Republic Act No. 9147, or the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act, presented by Ms. Noryaha D. Amantonding, Designated Information Officer of DENR Cotabato. She emphasized the importance of protecting wildlife and conserving the country’s natural resources.
Meanwhile, Atty. Ruby Deanne G. Turing, Legal Researcher of DENR Cotabato, discussed the Writ of Kalikasan, explaining its role as a legal remedy for the protection of the constitutional right to a balanced and healthful ecology. A question-and-answer session followed, providing participants with an opportunity to raise questions and clarify their responsibilities under environmental laws.
The forum concluded with key environmental messages from Mr. Forester Marson Gagit, Assistant Chief, RPS, who underscored the important role of young people in promoting environmental responsibility and translating environmental awareness into meaningful action.
Through the forum, NDKC and DENR-PENRO Cotabato provided student leaders with relevant knowledge of environmental laws while reinforcing the shared responsibility of individuals, schools, communities, and government institutions in protecting and preserving the environment. The activity further encouraged the youth to become informed and responsible stewards of nature and active partners in environmental protection.
Photos by: Zech Swelu N. Burcao and Jian Rojo
