In response to the growing threats in forests and forestland resources, the Department of Environment and Natural Resouces (DENR) CALABARZON Region, Local Government Unit (LGU) of Lucban, Quezon, and DENR-Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) Tayabas City gathered on March 9, 2023 to sign the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) ratifying the formulation of the municipality’s Forest Land Use Plan (FLUP).

The formulation of the FLUP is an important step towards sustainable forest management in the municipality, particularly in Lucban, Quezon. “Mag-uumpisa ito sa pagpaplano, pangalawa ang pagpapatupad, at ang pagme-mainstream nito sa kabuuang development plan ng Lucban.” DENR CALABARZON Regional Executive Director Nilo B. Tamoria said.

“Hindi lamang ito compliance sa pag-a-update natin ng Comprehensive Land Use Plan (CLUP), dahil karamihan sa mga CLUP na binabalangkas at isinusumite sa national ng lokal na pamahalaan ay bumabalik dahil sa absence ng Forest Land Use Plan.” he added.

Director Tamoria emphasized that FLUP should be a fundamental component of CLUP considering that the former provides a detailed analysis and understanding of forest resources and its probable uses within a larger context of land use planning.

The LGU’s role in FLUP formulation is critical to attain sustainable forest management within its jurisdiction. Based on the duly signed MOA, the responsibilities of the Lucban LGU are: setting the direction and priorities for the plan, providing policy support, extension services and participation, and ensuring its implementation once the FLUP has been formulated and adopted.

Lucban Municipal Mayor Agustin M. Villaverde emphasized the importance of a comprehensive and proactive approach to managing the municipality’s forestlands. Together with Municipal Vice Mayor Arnel C. Abcede and Municipal Administrator Engr. Maurito P. Nombrefia, they also expressed their gratitude to the DENR for its support and assistance in the formulation of FLUP, as both the government and the society will benefit from the outcome of said undertaking.

The process, thru this initial activity, seeks to incorporate diverse perspectives and ensure that FLUP reflects the needs and aspirations of Lucban community. “We have to meet para doon sa ating development, protection and rehabilitation of the remaining timberland. Napakahalaga nito, since this is the main source of water.” Tabayas City CENR Officer Cyril A. Coliflores said.

“We have to develop and craft kung ano ang ine-envision natin para sa timberland ng Lucban in relation to the CLUP and we still have to identify the issues and concerns relative sa collaborative operation sa timberland ng Lucban,” he added.

The processes and procedures to be undertaken under the MOA implementation shall be the main entry points in demonstrating improved governance that is consistent with the principles and practices of transparency, accountability, and participatory decision-making. With this collaborative effort, Lucban LGU can help ensure that forest resources are managed in a way that benefits both their community and the environment.

            FLUP formulation aims to provide a roadmap for sustainable forest management while balancing the need for economic development with environmental conservation goals.

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Published: 28 March 2023