The Department of Environment and Natural Resources on Thursday said it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the University of the Philippines Los Baños aimed at advancing science-based policies and decision-making, and developing and implementing high-impact forestry, natural resources and environment programs for the sustainable and resilient development of the country's natural resources.

The MoU was signed by Environment Secretary Antonia Loyzaga and UPLB Chancellor Dr. Jose V. Camacho, Jr. during the 4th International Conference on Integrated Natural Resources and Environment Management, themed "Future-proofing Sustainable Ridge-to-Reef Transformation through Integrated Natural Resources and Environment Management," held on 21 November in Manila.

"Our goal here with the MoU is to emphasize the DENR and UPLB's shared vision and goal of having a sustainable and resilient natural resource management and environmental protection for our country," Loyzaga said.

"It is our commitment to extend full cooperation and support to advance science and evidence-informed policy decision-making to revitalize the forestry sector, mindful of its effects on the adjacent environments including the coastal and marine sector, as well as maximizing these resources today, but also preserving them for generations to come," she added.

Under the agreement, both parties committed to further the development of more collaborative activities such as research programs and seminars; on-the-job trainings, practicum and internships; and scholarship grants.

Atty. Thomas Kabigting from the DENR-Forest Management Bureau, UPLB College of Forestry and Natural Resources Dean Marlo D. Mendoza, UPLB CFNR Forestry Development Center Director Dixon Gevaña and UPLB Interdisciplinary Studies Center for INREM Chair Juan Pulihin witnessed the signing of the MoU.