Palawan Council for Sustainable Development Staff (PCSDS) ECAN Zones Management Division (EZMED) launched a five-day Deputation Training for Environmental Law Enforcement on March 13, 2023. The training currently takes place in Poblacion, San Vicente, Palawan. The Honorable Mayor Amy R. Alvarez of San Vicente, Palawan gave a warm welcome to the participants.
The training is specifically designed for San Vicente-based Bantay Gubat officers, who are responsible for ensuring the conservation and protection of the area’s forest and wildlife resources.
First day-morning session began with an introduction to the Background and Training Schedule by Ms. Sheena Rose Millendez (PCSDS-EZMED). Following that, Mr. Mark Española (PCSDS-EZMED) discussed the Strategic Environmental Plan for Palawan Act (RA 7611). Ms. Ofel Jemaimah Oblan (PCDS Legal Services Section) ended the morning session by discussing the Legal Framework for Wildlife Enforcement, Chainsaw Act (RA9175), and PCSD Administrative Order No. 07, as amended.
The afternoon session included discussions on the Wildlife Conservation and Protection Act (RA 9147) and related PCSD Administrative Order No. 12 by Ms. Aiza Arangorin (PCSDS-EZMED). Ms. Sheena Rose Millendez (PCSDS-EZMED) then discussed CITES and IUCN provisions and Philippine Biodiversity: Its state, values, and significance. Mr. Mark Española (PCSDS-EZMED) followed with a presentation on the List of Threatened Species (PCSD Resolution 15-521), different wildlife species commonly subject to domestic and international trafficking, and different techniques wildlife trackers use to conceal wildlife. Finally, Ms. Sheena Rose Millendez (PCSDS-EZMED) provided examples of permits and what to look for when examining permits in situ.
Now on its second day, the training moves on to the discussions of PCSD Administrative Order Nos. 5, 6, 11, Caves Act (RA 9082) by Ms. Ofel Jemaimah Oblan (PCDS Legal Services Section); Wildlife Species Familiarization and Wildlife Handling Techniques by Mr. Salvador L. Guion (PWRCC); Photo Documentation by PSSg Melchor Z Nangit (San Vicente Municipal Police Station); and Steps in the Application for Search Warrant by PSSg Ernesto P Paaco from (San Vicente Municipal Police Station).
The training aims to provide the participants with the necessary skills and knowledge to enforce environmental laws effectively. The training covers several topics that will enable them to identify and prevent environmental violations, including wildlife trafficking, illegal logging, and mining. The participants will also learn about the proper procedures and protocols in handling environmental cases.
The training is vital for the preservation of Palawan’s biodiversity, which is home to several endemic and endangered species. This is an essential program that provides Bantay Gubat officers with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively enforce environmental laws and regulations. The participants will also undergo practical exercises and simulations to prepare them for real-life scenarios.
The conduct of the PCSDS-EZMED in organizing this training underscores the agency’s commitment to promoting sustainable development and environmental protection in Palawan.