DENR Secretary Maria Antonia 'Toni' Yulo-Loyzaga (JEL SANTOS/MB PHOTO)

Following President Marcos’ acceptance of her courtesy resignation, several of the country’s leading environmental organizations have expressed gratitude and respect for outgoing Environment Secretary Maria Antonia “Toni” Yulo-Loyzaga, lauding her science-based leadership, policy reforms, and commitment to climate resilience during her tenure at the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

Loyzaga was among the cabinet officials whose resignations were accepted as part of the Marcos administration’s revamp of key government posts.

She served as DENR chief from 2022 until May 2025.

In the wake of her departure, groups including Zoological Society of London (ZSL) Philippines, World Wide Fund of Nature (WWF) Philippines, and the Philippine Eagle Foundation (PEF) released separate statements commending Loyzaga’s accomplishments and highlighting the impact of her leadership.

“Secretary Yulo-Loyzaga exemplifies integrity-driven leadership with a genuine concern for people and the planet,” Edwina D. Garchitorena, the country director of ZSL Philippines, said in a Facebook post.

“Her steadfast commitment to science and the whole of society approach has led the DENR toward policies that serve not only the Filipino people but also safeguard and restore our nation’s rich biodiversity.”

Garchitorena cited Loyzaga’s work on advancing blue carbon ecosystem restoration and her efforts to promote nature-based solutions by working with communities and environmental groups.

“She strongly advocates for nature-based solutions and works closely with communities, environmental organizations, and other governmental bodies to implement these solutions,” she went on.

WWF-Philippines said Loyzaga’s “deep commitment to science, integrity, and collaboration has guided our country’s efforts in addressing climate and environmental challenges—with people and nature at the heart of every solution.”

“We remember clearly when she showed us a photo of a mother and young daughter pushing a kariton of trash down the street. ‘This is what we must fix together,’ she told us. That moment captured her philosophy: that environmental work is ultimately about improving the lives of those who bear the brunt of inequality and ecological harm,” the organization said.

WWF noted key institutional reforms under Yulo-Loyzaga’s leadership, including the development of a national geospatial database and a natural capital accounting system.

It stated these moves have “laid the foundation for a future that values ecosystems not just in principle, but in policy and practice.”

“In places closest to WWF’s mission, Secretary Toni’s grit and determination made possible the release of funds—long tied up in government processes—for the construction of the Tubbataha Marine Ranger Station, and brought a much-needed spotlight to the protection of critically endangered species and marine research,” it added.

Also, PEF acknowledged the secretary’s environmental stewardship and support for Indigenous communities.

“During her tenure, we witnessed a deeper alignment between science and policy, a stronger voice for Indigenous communities, and a renewed commitment to protecting our country’s natural heritage,” the foundation said.

“She consistently championed climate adaptation and mitigation as national priorities—recognizing the critical role of forests, biodiversity, and communities in building a more resilient and secure future.”

“As we await transitions in government leadership, the Philippine Eagle Foundation remains committed to working with DENR and all partners in pursuing our shared mission of saving the Philippine Eagle and restoring our forests,” it added.

The Marcos Administration said outgoing Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Raphael Lotilla will replace Loyzaga at the DENR.