By Marita Moaje, March 6, 2026; Philippine News Agency

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1270451

MANILA – Newly appointed Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Secretary Juan Miguel Cuna vowed to strengthen systems and streamline processes as he takes over the helm from outgoing chief Raphael Lotilla.

In a formal turnover ceremony in Quezon City on Friday, Cuna said the DENR has strong programs in place, and that the task now is on improving efficiency and building on existing programs.

“We are not here to reinvent the wheel. The DENR already has strong programs, dedicated professionals, and well-established mandates. Our task is to strengthen these foundations, improve the efficiency of our systems, and ensure that the services we provide resound effectively to the needs of our communities and our country,” Cuna said.

Among his priorities are to review and to improve internal processes to ensure that environmental governance supports sustainability and economic development.

Cuna noted the crucial role the DENR plays in projects, ranging from tourism development to infrastructure initiatives, that require environmental permits.

“We have to start with re-evaluating our processes, definitely. I think Secretary Popo has already started this. We need to ensure that all the actions of the department are able to improve our economy, able to boost the economy, especially now with everything that’s been happening globally,” he said.

“We have to make ourselves significant in that sense. There are so many ways, by improving our processes, taking care of our tourist destinations, anything that would end up job generation. Very important.”

Cuna said environmental stewardship must go hand in hand with national development, especially as the country faces increasing environmental pressures and climate-related risks.

Meanwhile, Lotilla, in his farewell address, thanked the officials and personnel for their support.

Referring to recent environmental incidents that tested the department’s systems, he reminded DENR personnel that environmental protection “affect real communities and carry real consequences”.

“Regulations that must not waver, standards that do not bend, and institutions that are prepared not only to respond, but to figure,” said Lotilla, who was appointed as Philippine Ambassador to the Holy See. (PNA)