In a concerted effort to bolster air quality standards and foster environmental stewardship, the Environmental Management Bureau of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (EMB-DENR) orchestrated a pivotal assembly held on March 13, 2024.
The event convened a diverse spectrum of stakeholders, including national government agencies (NGAs), non-governmental organizations (NGOs), academia, and industry partners, to recalibrate the National Air Quality Control Action Plan (NAQCAP), underscoring an unwavering commitment to continuous improvement.
Addressing the imperative to adapt to evolving environmental challenges, the meeting was arranged to update the 24-year-old Integrated Air Quality Improvement Framework (IAQIF), a cornerstone of the Philippines’ environmental legislation landscape.
Under the directives of DENR Administrative Order 2000-82, the NAQCAP within the IAQIF mandates a strategic roadmap for mitigating emissions and fostering air purity, emphasizing the crucial role of collaborative policymaking among government entities.
During the session, partner agencies and stakeholders conducted a comprehensive assessment of the milestones achieved under R.A. 8749 of the Philippine Clean Air Act of 1999, charting a path forward for heightened environmental efficacy.
Integral to the deliberations was the delineation of a 10-year Air Quality Roadmap, aimed at aligning diverse agency objectives towards a unified vision of air quality excellence.
Reflecting on the significance of the gathering, DENR Undersecretary for Luzon Field Operations and Supervising Undersecretary for EMB for Luzon and Visayas, Atty. Juan Miguel
- Cuna underscored the necessity of adaptive policymaking to meet the evolving needs of stakeholders.
“In our pursuit of a quality environment, it is imperative to synchronize our policies with the dynamic demands of our constituents. This meeting serves as a test or trial for sharing insights and expertise, fortifying the resilience of our environmental frameworks,” remarked Undersecretary Cuna.
The collaborative synergy manifested in the formulation of six pioneering policies targeting mobile sources of air pollution, including a groundbreaking initiative addressing Noise Emissions from motorcycles and tricycles.
Furthermore, stakeholders contributed around the development of eight policies to address airshed and ambient air quality concerns, including guidelines targeting hazardous pollutants such as black carbon, dioxins, furans, and trace metals.
Additionally, the initiative has galvanized the establishment of eight policies delineating guidelines for market-based instruments and emission charges, epitomizing a multifaceted approach towards sustainable air quality management. These proactive measures underscore a collective resolve to champion environmental integrity and public health.
“As stewards of our nation’s environmental legacy, the collaborative endeavors between NGAs and our valued partners is a testament to our shared dedication to nurturing a healthier and cleaner environment for future generations. Through sustained cooperation and proactive interventions, we are committed to achieving and maintaining an ideal air quality standard nationwide,” affirmed Undersecretary Cuna. ###