EDC BINHI’s forest protection deputation training aims to drive stakeholders across sectors, particularly the government and local communities, to safeguard their region’s natural forests and become defenders of their own environmental heritage.

Burauen, Leyte – Committed to forge collaborative pathways toward a decarbonized and regenerative future, First Gen-owned Energy Development Corporation (EDC) recently conducted their annual Deputation Training for Barangay Forest Protection Brigades (BFPBs) and Protected Area Park Rangers of the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) on March 13-14, 2024 at the Mahagnao Volcano Natural Park in Burauen, Leyte.

This annual event under EDC’s BINHI landmark forest restoration program  aims to equip BFPBs with the necessary skills and knowledge to serve as forest protection officers in Leyte. This year’s training, led by EDC-BINHI Forester Ronelmar G. Aguilar, saw over 40 participants benefiting from a series of workshops and sessions focused on forest protection, biodiversity conservation, wildlife handling and rescue, and snake identification and snake bite management, as requested by the CENRO of Palo, Leyte.

The collaboration between EDC, the Barangay Local Government Unit (BLGU), DENR-CENRO Palo-Monitoring and Enforcement Section (MES), and the Protected Area Management Office (PAMO) underscores a shared promise to safeguard the region’s natural resources. Protected Area Superintendent Benjamin O. Gonzales expressed his appreciation for EDC’s steadfast support, emphasizing the importance of such partnerships in advancing environmental protection efforts.

EDC BINHI’s forest protection deputation training aims to drive stakeholders across sectors, particularly the government and local communities, to safeguard their region’s natural forests and become defenders of their own environmental heritage.

“The Office of CENRO-Palo, through the Monitoring and Enforcement Section, is filled with gratitude for the resolute partnership that the office has with EDC, most especially on their aid to the Department’s programs on the protection of forest and law enforcement activities,” Gonzales said. “EDC is one of our oldest and consistent partners through time. We look forward that the same merger shall persist in years to come to achieve our parallel goals for a greener planet.”

Meanwhile, BINHI Forester Ronelmar G. Aguilar acknowledged the importance of forest protection and biodiversity conservation in preserving the delicate balance of the country’s ecosystem, which has always been one of their top priorities at EDC.

“Our forests are not merely vast expanses of trees; they are the lungs of our planet, and the home of countless species. However, they are facing unprecedented threats from deforestation and unsustainable exploitation, Aguilar reiterated. “EDC will always be here to support the government, NGOs, and other private agencies to develop innovative strategies to lessen deforestation, promote reforestation, and ensure the preservation of critical habitats for future generations.”

The success of this year’s deputation training in Leyte signifies yet another significant step towards enhancing the province’s forest protection efforts. With this, EDC reaffirms its dedication to nurturing awareness and empowering communities to contribute to the preservation of our planet’s invaluable natural resources for generations of Filipinos to come.

Energy Development Corporation (EDC) is First Gen Corporation’s 100% Renewable Energy (RE) subsidiary with over 1,480MW total installed capacity that accounts for 20% of the country’s total installed RE capacity. Its 1,185MW geothermal portfolio comprises 62% of the country’s total installed geothermal capacity, making the Philippines the third largest geothermal producer in the world. First Gen is the Philippines’ leading clean energy company.