CITY OF KORONADAL, South Cotabato – The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Region 12 has renewed its call for stronger environmental protection as it launched the 2025 Philippine Environment Month celebration on Monday, June 2.
Speaking during the kick-off activity held in this city, DENR-12 Regional Executive Director Atty. Felix S. Alicer urged communities, local government units, and partner organizations to intensify their efforts in promoting sustainable practices. He underscored that protecting the environment is a shared responsibility vital to the well-being of present and future generations.
Alicer echoed the guiding principles of outgoing DENR Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga, particularly her push for sustainable development anchored on science-based and data-driven decision-making. He stressed the importance of basing environmental actions on accurate information and a clear understanding of prevailing conditions to ensure effective resource management.
This year’s theme, “Ending Global Plastic Pollution,” highlights the urgency of tackling one of the most pressing environmental threats. Alicer emphasized the need for responsible waste management, especially the reduction of plastic use and improved disposal practices. He called attention to the growing threat of microplastics and stressed the importance of proper waste segregation at the source.
“We must take the lead in efforts to end plastic pollution,” Alicer said, urging stakeholders to support initiatives that minimize plastic waste and mitigate its long-term impacts on both land and marine ecosystems.
Philippine Environment Month is celebrated every June under Presidential Proclamation No. 237, signed in 1988 by then President Corazon C. Aquino. The month-long celebration aims to raise public awareness and strengthen collective environmental action across the country.
Throughout June, DENR-12 will spearhead a series of environmental activities in line with various global and national observances, including World Environment Day, Philippine Eagle Week, World Oceans Day, Coral Triangle Day, World Sea Turtle Day, World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought, and Philippine Arbor Day.