Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Acting Secretary Juan Miguel Cuna said the agency will re-evaluate its processes to ensure that its actions contribute to economic growth and job generation as he formally assumed leadership of the department on Friday, March 6.

In his speech during the turnover ceremony at the DENR Central Office in Quezon City, Cuna said the agency must examine its systems to ensure that its programs and decisions support national development while fulfilling its mandate of protecting the environment.

“[W]e have to start with re-evaluating our processes,” Cuna said.

“We need to ensure that all the actions of the Department are able to improve our economy, able to boost the economy, especially now with everything that’s been happening globally,” he added.

Cuna said the DENR plays a crucial role in enabling development projects across various sectors.

“There are so many ways. Almost any program or project needs something from our Department in order to be pursued,” he said.

He noted that improving the agency’s processes could also help support tourism and employment opportunities.

“By improving our processes, taking care of our tourist destinations. Anything that would end up (to) job generation. Very important,” Cuna said.

The new DENR chief also underscored that the agency will build on existing programs rather than introduce sweeping institutional changes.

“We are not here to reinvent the wheel. The DENR already has strong programs, dedicated professionals, and well-established mandates,” Cuna said.

“Our task is to strengthen these foundations, improve the efficiency of our systems, and ensure that the services we provide respond effectively to the needs of our communities and our country,” he added.

Cuna also stressed the importance of collaboration within the agency and with external stakeholders to address complex environmental challenges.

“Effective environmental governance requires close collaboration among our bureaus, across our regional and field offices, and with our partners in government, the private sector, and the communities we serve,” he said.

The new DENR chief reiterated that environmental protection and economic development must go hand in hand.

“Environmental stewardship and national development must move forward together,” he said.

Moreover, Cuna highlighted the growing importance of the environment department’s role amid global environmental pressures.

“In a time of global uncertainties and evolving environmental challenges, particularly the growing impacts of climate change and the uncertainties arising from current developments in the Middle East, the mandate of the DENR becomes even more critical,” he said.

Meanwhile, Cuna expressed appreciation to outgoing DENR Secretary Raphael Lotilla, who will assume a new post as the Philippines’ ambassador to the Holy See.

“During his time with the Department, Secretary Lotilla guided the DENR with calm leadership, professionalism, and a deep sense of public duty,” he said. “The DENR family wishes you every success as you assume your new role as Ambassador of the Philippines to the Holy See.”