New Leadership Commits to Science-Based Sustainable Development
Raphael Lotilla, the newly appointed Environment Secretary, has promised to advance the Department of Environment and Natural Resources’ (DENR) mission by building on the foundation set by his predecessor, Maria Antonia “Toni” Yulo-Loyzaga. At the turnover ceremony held on June 16 at the DENR Central Office in Quezon City, Lotilla emphasized his commitment to steering the department toward science-based sustainable development.
“The President’s instructions have been clear: we build on the strength that the Department of Environment and Natural Resources has accumulated over these three years and in the past,” Lotilla said. He expressed deep appreciation to Loyzaga and other senior DENR officials for their support and presence during the event.
Building on a Strong Institutional Foundation
A lawyer and seasoned public servant, Lotilla acknowledged the vast responsibilities ahead. He shared that the transition materials were extensive, joking that it would be nearly impossible to review everything before taking his oath. Still, he assured his openness and determination to collaborate with the DENR team to meet the department’s goals and uphold the constitutional and legal mandates on environmental protection.
Lotilla also recounted his role in drafting the 1987 Administrative Code, which forms the legal backbone of the DENR. “Many years ago, when the 1987 Administrative Code was being drafted, I led the team at the UP Law Center to put this together. We navigated the Executive Orders issued by President Cory Aquino’s office, which remain the basic structure for DENR,” he explained.
Continuing Science-Based Sustainable Development Policies
Recognizing the scientific approach established under Loyzaga’s leadership, Lotilla pledged to maintain and enhance evidence-based policies that align with presidential directives and the department’s priorities. He stressed that environmental and natural resource protection must be central to the nation’s development strategy.
“This is what we will be pursuing with you as a basic principle — sustainable development — ensuring economic, environmental, and social sustainability for our people and country,” he remarked. He acknowledged the challenge of balancing these pillars, noting that sometimes one may take precedence over the others.
Balancing Sustainability and Poverty Reduction
Lotilla highlighted the difficult decisions government leaders face in balancing sustainable development principles. “It is our elected officials who must make the sometimes painful decisions to balance these principles,” he said. He also emphasized the urgent need to reduce poverty while safeguarding natural resources for future generations.
“Our main sustainable development goal, if that is not clear to some of the public, is still the elimination or at least the reduction of poverty,” Lotilla stated. He noted that about 15 to 20 percent of Filipinos remain below the poverty line, making poverty alleviation a critical challenge.
In closing, Lotilla called on DENR personnel to unite in demonstrating to the nation and the world that the Philippines can be a leader in sustainable development. He expressed confidence in the department’s ability to protect the environment while promoting the welfare of its people.
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