PWPA Visits New DENR Undersecretary Marlo Mendoza
Philippine Wood Producers Association Vice Chair Ramon Uy and Executive Director Maila Vasquez paid a visit to the new Department of Environment and Natural Resources Undersecretary for Policy and Planning Marlo Mendoza last August 23, 2016. Uy congratulated him on his appointment, saying that he was the right man for the job, as he is a forester with experiences both in the field and the academe.
They discussed several points of concern and interest to the wood industry.
Mendoza informed them that as DENR Secretary Gina Lopez’ core principle is social justice, she is willing to support the wood industry, and business should help the people as well. Zoning of production and protection areas was also discussed.
He also apprised them of the priorities of the current administration, which include the devolution of harvesting permit approvals in the regions, increasing the local government unit’s awareness of planted and natural or residual species, proper and correct implementation of policies, and the legality of source.
It was also mentioned that the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) will be continuing their research into alternative species for exotic or fast growing species; and that all Industrial Forest Management Agreement (IFMA) areas will be reviewed.
He said that they are considering an aggressive plantation development of different modality. Hence the need to review policies that will encourage investors and communities to plant. Holistic approach will be adopted which will consider site, species and market matching so that economic, environment and social aspects of development will be considered.