Provincial Board supports “Protect Wildlife Project”

CEBU, Philippines - The Cebu Provincial Board (PB) has expressed support for “Protect Wildlife Project” as a way to strengthen environmental management in the country.

Board Member Thaddeo Jovito Ouano, chairman of the PB committee on environment, sponsored a resolution supporting the project, which is being undertaken by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and United States Agency for International Development (USAID).

He said the DENR and USAID are working together for the enhancement, protection and conservation of our country’s rich biological diversity.

The “Protect Wildlife Project” is a five-year P1.2 billion initiative that seeks to address biodiversity loss and alleged rampant wildlife trafficking in the country.

DENR Secretary Gina Lopez and US Ambassador Sung Kim led the launching of this newest biodiversity conservation project in the country on March 6 at Sequoia Hotel in Quezon City.

According to Ouano, the project is part of the continuing collaboration between the governments of the Philippines and the United States, in cooperation with the private sector, civil society groups and individual communities to strengthen natural and environmental resources management in the country.

“This project will demonstrate that protecting and managing the Philippines’ diverse habitats and species lead to improved quality of life and sustainable development and protecting wildlife is not only the name of the project but it is also imperative for all to take care of the species which we share with the planet,” the resolution read.

He said the perspective of DENR is area development, or making sure that the resources — especially flora and fauna — are enjoyed by the people and that nurturing the country’s endemic species is the country’s contribution to humanity.

Ouano also said the “Protect Wildlife Project” would also focus on improving benefits provided by the ecosystem such as food, water, livelihood and eco-tourism. (FREEMAN)