DENR recognizes 28 officers for environmental enforcement

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has recognized 28 law enforcement officers for their contribution to government efforts to end illegal wildlife trade.

The DENR – through its Biodiversity Management Bureau – gave out gold, silver and bronze medals to officers from the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) who became its partners in enforcing wildlife laws and regulations during the past year. The awarding ceremonies coincided with the local celebration of World Wildlife Day last March 2 at the Biodiversity Management Bureau Training Center in Quezon City.

Environment Secretary Roy Cimatu commended the awardees for their vital role in the arrest and filing of cases against wildlife crime offenders, and the rescue of various wildlife species, most of them considered endangered.

Cimatu said the battle against wildlife crimes requires a combination of strategies, thus the DENR has been employing the 3Es: education, engagement and enforcement.

“The DENR is determined to fight wildlife crimes. However, combatting wildlife crimes requires a combination of strategies,” Cimatu said, adding that educating the public and engaging them are both crucial in the fight against wildlife crime.

“The third E is the reason why we are here – to give proper recognition to those who have distinguished themselves in enforcing the law to protect our wildlife,” Cimatu said.

The gold medalists are Abner Tecson, senior agent; Felix Odencio, special investigator III; and Wilfredo Atienza Jr., senior agent, all from the NBI- Environmental Crime Division.

The silver medalists are Dennis Bartolome, NBI – Photography and Publication Laboratory Division; Wilfred Umaming, special investigator III and lawyer Marvin Matamis, both NBI-Environmental Crime Division.