Quezon City: Newly appointed Secretary Raphael P.M. Lotilla formally took over the leadership of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) during a ceremony held on Monday. In his speech, Lotilla expressed his gratitude to outgoing Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo Loyzaga, acknowledging her efforts in driving science-based policy reforms and advancing climate resilience programs that have benefited vulnerable communities across the country.

According to Philippines News Agency, Loyzaga emphasized the directives of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., which are to build on the strengths that the DENR has accumulated over the past three years. The turnover ceremony symbolized a significant transition from Loyzaga to Lotilla. Loyzaga highlighted the milestone in the journey towards ensuring that the organization is focused on science-informed environmental stewardship, stating that it is vital for building an inclusive and resilient nation.

Loyzaga also mentioned her pride in turning over a DENR that has worked to break down silos and collaboratively provide essential resources while conserving and enhancing forests and waters. Her leadership, beginning in 2022, is credited with embedding climate risk science into the DENR's decision-making processes, expanding environmental governance to include marine ecosystems, disaster resilience, and nature-based solutions.

Lotilla acknowledged the institutional gains made under Loyzaga and pledged to continue these advancements. He highlighted the challenge of lifting Filipinos out of poverty, noting that less than 20 percent of the population still lives below the poverty line, as supported by official statistics. Lotilla emphasized the importance of pursuing economic sustainability while ensuring that future generations are not deprived of environmental resources.

He also urged the agency's officials and staff to remain united in their purpose, encouraging them to demonstrate to the world that the Philippines can be an exemplar in sustainable development concerning the environment and natural resources.