MIDSAYAP, COTABATO – In a significant move toward environmental conservation, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Region 12 and the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Alamada have officially signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to solidify their commitment to sustainable forest management. The signing ceremony took place on March 13, 2025, at Wiw’s Resto in Midsayap, Cotabato.
The agreement marks the launch of the Joint Forest Land Use Plan (FLUP) Implementation, which will span from 2025 to 2034. This initiative aims to integrate forest land use planning into Alamada’s Comprehensive Land Use Plan (CLUP) to combat climate change, promote food security, and ensure the sustainable management of natural resources.
Regional Executive Director (RED) Atty. Felix S. Alicer emphasized the significance of this partnership in protecting Alamada’s remaining forests and watersheds. He highlighted that the MOA signing is a proactive step in safeguarding natural resources for future generations, reinforcing the shared responsibility of both government agencies and local communities.
Mayor Jesus N. Sacdalan of Alamada echoed this sentiment, reaffirming the LGU’s commitment to sustainable forestland management. He acknowledged the vital role that these forestlands play in maintaining ecological balance and serving as a key source of livelihood for the community.
Alamada, a first-class municipality in Cotabato Province, encompasses approximately 79,203.53 hectares, with 57,767.36 hectares—or 72.82% of its total land area—classified as forestland, according to the DENR cadastral map.
The MOA signing was witnessed by key officials from both DENR-12 and LGU-Alamada, including Barangay Local Government Unit (BLGU) officials, Municipal Planning and Development Officer Engr. Evelyn F. Esleta, Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Officer Danilo A. Puno, DENR-12 Assistant Regional Director for Technical Services Engr. Mama G. Samaon, PENRO Cotabato Radzak B. Sinarimbo, CENRO Midsayap Shirley P. Uy, Community Development Division Chief Ali M. Hadjinasser, PhD, and other stakeholders.
The collaboration between DENR-12 and LGU Alamada signifies a crucial step toward ensuring that forestlands remain protected while balancing environmental sustainability with the needs of the local community.
