US gov't launches P28M-project for PH environmental justice program
The United States has launched the second iteration of its environmental justice program in the Philippines to provide P28 million fund to strengthen the persecution of environmental crimes in Palawan.
The US Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) announced on Jan. 22 the continuation of its “Environmental Justice Sector and Law Enforcement Support for the Philippines” before it turned over three new units of U.S. government-donated Starlink satellite internet terminals.
The equipment will boost PCSD’s law enforcement capabilities and case management operations, according to the US Embassy in Manila.
“The continuation of this environmental justice project will enable INL to provide more equipment and capacity building assistance to PCSD and its partners, including technical exchanges betweenlocal environmental law enforcement officials and U.S. Forest Service officials, training, support for the prosecution of environmental cases, and thedevelopment of training manuals and other guidebooks,” it said.
The project, which is in collaboration with the Palawan Council for Sustainable Development, is a testament to the US’ ongoing dedication to environmental justice, INL Deputy Director Luke Bruns said.
“We believe that through our shared experiences and resources, we can make significant strides in preserving our natural environment for future generations,” he added.
INL's engagement in addressing environmental justice issues in Palawan began in 2019 through a Php28-million ($500,000) partnership with the U.S. Forest Service that strengthened the institutional capacity of PCSD and its law enforcement partners to effectively combat and prevent environmental crimes.