GENERAL SANTOS CITY – In a landmark step toward integrated environmental governance, key stakeholders signed a Multi-Party Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the creation of the Silway River Watershed Management Council (SRWMC) on May 20.
The Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) of General Santos City, acting as the council’s secretariat, facilitated the signing through a coordinated office-to-office approach. This ensured inclusive participation from partner agencies and institutions, reflecting a strong collective commitment to sustainable watershed management.
The newly formed council includes representatives from national government agencies, local government units, and partner institutions. Among the signatories are the Provincial Government of South Cotabato, represented by re-elected Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo, Jr., who will serve as the Council’s Vice Chairperson; the Municipality of Polomolok, represented by re-elected Mayor Bernie F. Palencia; the Protected Area Superintendent (PASu) of Mt. Matutum Protected Landscape (MMPL); the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB); and the Polomolok Water District.
The SRWMC is envisioned as a multi-sectoral body tasked with protecting, conserving, and managing the Silway River Watershed through policy formulation and implementation of programs focused on watershed conservation, climate resilience, biodiversity protection, and sustainable use of land and water resources.
The council’s creation is in line with the integrated watershed management approach advocated by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). It also signals increasing awareness of the value of collaborative governance in tackling environmental challenges in South Cotabato and nearby areas.
The Silway River Watershed, which traverses ecologically important areas including Mt. Matutum, plays a vital role in supporting biodiversity, agricultural productivity, and water supply in the region. The establishment of SRWMC is expected to strengthen efforts to preserve these essential resources for future generations.