On July 28, 2021, OIC PENR Officer Alejandra B. Boiser, CENRO Officer Ruel E. Efren of CENRO Tubod and OIC, Regional Director of Mines and Geo-sciences Bureau (MGB) Caraga Engr. Larry M. Heradez visited Surigao del Norte – District II Representative / Congressman Robert Ace S. Barbers for a courtesy meeting. This is to discuss the Programs, Activities and Projects of DENR particularly on Enhanced National Greening Program (ENGP), Land Management and Mining related concerns. Likewise, to tackle relevant issues and concerns that could be included in the upcoming Budget Hearing for Fiscal Year 2022.

During the short meeting, Congressman Barbers was particular of NGP project implementation and mining operations that could support the welfare of the community. PENRO Boiser and CENRO Efren immediately provided a brief details of NGP project status while MGB Caraga Regional Director Heradez also gives feedback with regards to operation of Manila Mining located in Placer, Surigao del Norte.

CENRO Efren also made a query regarding the pending House Bill No. 5177 filed during the 16th Congress on the conversion of certain parcels of land of the public domain situated within the City of Surigao. The Congressman confirmed that he was aware of the bill and assured to look into it.

In addition, CENRO Efren also mentioned his initiative project called “Project Green”. This aims to reactivate seedling production and distribution program with private individuals who wants to develop, rehabilitate and reforest their lands in support to the government’s flagship programs.

Overall, Congressman Barbers assures his full support to the existing and future projects of the DENR.