BAUKO,Mountain Province (PIA)--The local government of Bauko is among the environmental partners the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Cordillera conferred the Gawad Kalisan Award during its 35th Anniversary on June 30 at the DENR–CAR Regional Training Center in Baguio City.
The award is given by the DENR CAR to its partners who work with the agency for environmental protection, ecological stability and economic upliftment to attain sustainable development. It also expresses the appreciation of the invaluable activities towards establishing tree plantations, sustaining environmental awareness in information and education campaigns, leadership and quick response in the implementation of laws contributing to environmental awareness and protection.
Under the administration of Mayor Abraham Akilit anchored on “Gameng ya Kataguwan” that focuses on Watershed and Environment Protection, Tourism Development, Livelihood, Manpower and Skills Development, Health and Special Projects, the Bauko municipality saved hectares of watersheds which were eyed as agricultural expansion, practical waste disposal was implemented, and permanent plantilla position for environment works was created, among others.
Akilit, who ended his three year term as mayor, pleaded with the new set of officials during the turnover of responsibility ceremony, not to trade environmental protection over political mileage.
"I love Bauko so much that I am begging you not to trade the future of our children with temporary whims and stability of political image. Do not trade our forests and watersheds to nonchalance just not to get the ire of farmers who would like to expand their agricultural operations. Instead, continually teach them that water is life," he said.
Other Gawad Kalikasan awardees from Mountain Province are the Tadian Municipal Police Station, and the 1st Platoon, 2nd Mountain Province Police Mobile Force Company.
For DENR-CAR’s search for Best Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office, PENRO Mt. Province bagged second place while for the Best Community ENRO, CENRO Paracelis ranked third. (JDP/VJLT-PIA CAR with reports from LGU Bauko PESO)
