The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Region 12, through the Cotabato Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) headed by PENR Officer Radzak B. Sinarimbo, has strengthened its collaboration with the Provincial Government of Cotabato (PLGU) under the leadership of Governor Emmylou “Lala” Taliño-Mendoza to promote environmental development in the province’s 3rd District.
In a joint initiative, the DENR and the local government unit are working together to plant 74,868 bamboo and rubber seedlings as part of a broader campaign for environmental sustainability. The project, supported through a congressional initiative from the office of Congresswoman Ma. Alana Samantha T. Santos, aligns with the DENR’s Forest Development, Rehabilitation, and Protection Program.
The target is to plant 36,108 bamboo seedlings and 38,760 rubber seedlings across six selected towns in the district. The reforestation effort aims to combat soil erosion, serve as a carbon sink, and provide livelihood opportunities to local communities.
During a coordination meeting held on April 8, 2025, DENR-PENRO and the PLGU discussed the strategic planting sites. The meeting reflects the DENR’s active role in advancing meaningful environmental solutions by working closely with local governments and legislators toward a greener and more sustainable Cotabato.