GENERAL SANTOS CITY – The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Region 12, in collaboration with various stakeholders, convened for a capacity-building activity aimed at addressing key environmental challenges affecting the Siguil River. The event, held on March 17 in General Santos City, focused on strategic planning and stakeholder engagement to promote responsible river resource management.
During the discussions, stakeholders identified deforestation as the primary challenge impacting the Siguil River’s ecosystem and sustainability. In response, plans are underway to establish a sub-management council dedicated to overseeing activities that will be integrated into the watershed management plan, ensuring a coordinated approach to environmental conservation.
The initiative was actively participated in by representatives from the DENR-Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Offices (PENRO) of Sarangani and South Cotabato, City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) of General Santos City, local government units (LGUs) of Maasim and Tboli, the Conrado and Ladislawa Alcantara Foundation, Inc. (CLAFI), Siguil Hydro Power Corporation, and barangay leaders from Bawing in General Santos City, Nomoh and Tinoto in Maasim, as well as members of the Malbang Coconut Farmers Association (MACOFA).
As part of their commitment, stakeholders pledged to develop and implement sustainable solutions that balance ecological restoration with the well-being of local communities. The collaborative efforts aim to mitigate deforestation, promote conservation initiatives, and ensure the long-term resilience of the Siguil River and its surrounding ecosystems.
The DENR 12 and its partners remain dedicated to fostering environmental stewardship through proactive measures that address ecological threats while enhancing the sustainability of vital water resources in the region.
