As part of its continuing campaign against environmental crimes, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Region 12 conducted a two-day Training on Intelligence, Surveillance, and Enforcement Planning on May 14–15, 2025, in Kidapawan City. The activity was spearheaded by PENR Officer Radzak B. Sinarimbo of PENRO Cotabato and participated in by monitoring and enforcement personnel from PENRO Cotabato, CENRO Matalam, CENRO Midsayap, and representatives from the Protected Area Management Offices of Mt. Apo Natural Park (MANP) and Libungan River Watershed Forest Reserve (LRWFR).
The training aimed to equip participants with adequate knowledge and practical skills in surveillance, intelligence gathering, and proper enforcement of environmental laws. Topics discussed included the link between cybercrime and environmental violations, proper investigation procedures, the use of digital tools such as KoboCollect for heat mapping, and standard protocols in conducting arrests and gathering evidence.
Experts from the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Region 12, the Philippine National Police – Regional Anti-Cybercrime Unit 12 (RACU 12), and DENR 12’s Monitoring and Enforcement Division served as resource persons. The initiative reflects DENR Region 12’s commitment to building the capacity of its enforcement teams to better protect the region’s natural resources.
In a related development, the DENR formally awarded a Certificate of Commendation to the Glan Municipal Police Station on May 19 for its outstanding support in wildlife law enforcement. Glan Chief of Police PLTCOL Jovenson Bayona and seven other officers received the award during a flag-raising ceremony at the Glan Municipal Hall. The commendation was originally conferred during the 11th Wildlife Law Enforcement Awarding Ceremony held on March 3 in Quezon City.
Municipal Mayor Victor James Yap Sr., local officials, DENR staff, and police personnel witnessed the formal handover of the award, which recognized the Glan PNP’s exemplary performance in wildlife crime prevention, intelligence gathering, and community awareness efforts. These contributions reflect strong inter-agency cooperation in enforcing Republic Act 9147 or the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act.
CENR Officer Joy C. Ologuin lauded the partnership between the DENR and Glan PNP, emphasizing that such collaboration is crucial in protecting endangered species and enforcing environmental laws at the grassroots level.
The recognition and training activities underscore the DENR’s growing synergy with law enforcement units in promoting environmental stewardship and strengthening on-the-ground protection for the country’s rich natural heritage.