Bauang, La Union, May 23, 2024 – Under the leadership of Mayor Eulogio Clarence Martin P. De Guzman III, the Municipality of Bauang, in partnership with the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO) headed by Mr. Marc Alvin Garcia (OIC MENRO), hosted a significant event for department heads from the provinces of Quezon and Aurora at the Bauang Bakawan Eco-Tourism Park.

The event was part of a comprehensive environmental governance training program organized by the Institute of Environmental Governance (IEGS) of Southern Luzon State University (SLSU) and Aurora State College of Technology (ASCOT), in collaboration with Tanggol Kalikasan (TK). This initiative aimed to enhance the practical knowledge and skills of local government officials in environmental governance and law enforcement.

During the visit, Ms. Diana Gapasin from the Municipal Information and Tourism Office presented the best practices employed at the Bauang Bakawan Eco-Tourism Park. Her presentation highlighted the Bauang Bakawan’s successful strategies in environmental management, including sustainable tourism practices, conservation efforts, and community engagement programs. These practices have turned the park into a model of environmental stewardship and a vital asset for local and provincial tourism.

The training provided a platform for participants to gain a deeper understanding of national government programs related to environmental governance. It also emphasized the crucial role of local government units (LGUs) in implementing and supporting these programs. Through interactive sessions and practical demonstrations, participants learned about effective strategies for environmental protection and natural resource management, which they could apply in their respective localities.

A highlight of the event was the Q&A session, where participants had the opportunity to engage directly with experts in the field. Ms. Faith B. Corpuz from MENRO and Prof. Celso H. Jucutan, IEG Coordinator from Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University-North La Union Campus (DMMMSU-NLUC), addressed a variety of questions on environmental governance. They provided insights on topics such as policy implementation, community involvement, and the enforcement of environmental laws.

SulongBauang! Trabahong maGandaIaalaySayoTGIS.

Cris Balbuena