PROCEEDINGS
First National Convention on the Philippine Environmental Impact
Statement System (PEISS)
Manila Hotel, Manila, Philippines 19—21 June 2013
© 2013 Environmental Management Bureau-DENR
All rights reserved. Published 2013
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CONTENTS
ABBREVIATIONS ...... ACKNOWLEDGEMENT ...... EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ...... 5 Background ...... 5 Objectives, Key Accomplishments and Participation ...... 6 Preparatory Activities and Structure of the Convention...... 7 PROCEEDINGS ...... 10 Day 1: 19 JUNE 2013 ...... 10 OPENING CEREMONIES ...... 10 TECHNICAL SESSIONS ...... 13 Session 1: Historical and Regulatory Framework of the Philippine EIS System ...... 13 Session 2: Environmental assessment: an international perspective ...... 18 Session 3: Philippine EIS System- Compliance Assessment ...... 22 Day 2: 20 JUNE 2013 ...... 25 Session 4: Forging Partnership ...... 25 Session 5A: Setting the Standard ...... 27 Session 5B: Setting the Standards ...... 29 Day 3: 21 JUNE 2013 ...... 31 Session 6: Moving Forward ...... 31 Recognition and Awarding ceremonies ...... 34 Recognition of Individuals with Renowned Contributions to the PEISS ...... 34 Recognition of Good EIA Reports ...... 35 Synthesis and next steps ...... 38 Synthesis ...... 38 CLOSING PROGRAM ...... 38 ANNEXES ...... 41 Annex I – List of Committee members, convention partners, major sponsors, sponsors, emb and picapi iv-a secretariat ...... 41 Annex II - List of participants...... 43
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ABBREVIATIONS
ADB Asian Development Bank EA Environmental Assessment EIAMD Environmental Impact Assessment and Management Division ECA Environmentally Critical Area ECC Environmental Compliance Certificate ECP Environmentally Critical Projects EMB Environmental Management Bureau EMF Environmental Monitoring Fund EGF Environmental Guarantee Fund EIS Environmental Impact Statement EO Executive Order EEPP Environmental Enhancement and Protection Program FMRDP Final Mine Rehabilitation and Decommissioning Plan LGU Local Government Unit MMT Multipartite Monitoring Team NEPC National Environmental Protection Council NPCC National Pollution Control Commission NGO Non-Government Organization PCCI Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry PEISS Philippine Environmental Impact Statement System PEZA Philippine Economic Zone Authority PD Presidential Decree SEA Strategic Environmental Assessment UNCED United Nations Conference on Environment and Development
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FOREWORD
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources- Environmental Management Bureau (DENR – EMB) and the Pollution Control Association of the Philippines Incorporated– Region IV-A Chapter (PCAPI – R4A) wish to acknowledge the support from sponsors and all the companies, speakers, members of the working committees and participants who have contributed to the success of the “First National Convention on the Philippine Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) System” at Manila Hotel, City of Manila, Philippines on 19 to 21 June 2013.
ATTY. JUAN MIGUEL T. CUNA ENGR. FLORANTE A. PANGANIBAN
OIC-Director President Environmental Management Bureau-DENR PCAPI- IVA Chapter
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
BACKGROUND
Like in many other countries, Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is required by the Philippine Government prior to the implementation of undertakings with significant environmental impacts. EIA in the Philippines was originally conceived in 1977 with the issuance of the Philippine Environmental Policy (Presidential Decree 1151). This law mandates all national government agencies, including government- owned and controlled corporations, as well as private corporations, firms and entities to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for any project or activity that significantly affects the quality of the environment.
The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) System in the Philippines, officially referred to as the Philippine EIS System (PEISS), was established under Presidential Decree (PD) 1586 on 11 June 1978. Section 4 of PD 1586 provides that no person, partnership or corporation shall undertake or operate any such declared environmentally critical project or area without first securing an Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC).The National Environmental Protection Council (NEPC) under the Ministry of Human Settlements was designated as the lead implementing agency. Full implementation of the PEISS transpired after the issuance of Presidential Proclamation 2146 in 1981 where the technical definition of Environmentally Critical Projects (ECPs) and Environmentally Critical Areas (ECAs) was provided.
In 1987, Executive Order 192 merged the National Environmental Protection Council (NEPC), the National Pollution Control Commission (NPCC) and the Environmental Center of the Philippines (ECP) into what is now the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) and was put under the administrative jurisdiction of the renamed Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). EMB assumed the functions of the NEPC, NPCC and ECP that implements the Philippine EIS System.
After 35 years from its establishment, the PEISS has gone through a lot of developments as well as challenges and opportunities. The conduct of the First National Convention on the Philippine EIS System has been planned as early as on the 25thYear of the PEISS but only came to be realized with the preparation of a concept paper in April 2012.The concept paper became the working draft of EIA practitioners from the private sector, government sector, professional organization and the academe, which later convened to form the working committees for planning and organization of the Convention.
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OBJECTIVES, KEY ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND PARTICIPATION
The Convention highlighted the sharing of the local and international good EIA practices, experiences, insights, lessons learned and opportunities to promote a common understanding and appreciation of the Philippine EIS System among its various stakeholders for a heightened commitment on the proper use and practice of EIA in the Philippines.
The Convention served as a venue for:
(i) discussing the historical and regulatory framework of the Philippine EIS System; (ii) local EIA practitioners to have an international perspective on EIA ; (iii) the private sector, local government units (LGUs), other government agencies and other EIA practitioners and stakeholders to share insights and experiences with the PEISS; (iv) discussing suggestions on setting standards in EIA and current initiatives and plans in improving the PEISS; (v) recognizing sample good EIA Reports and key personalities with significant contribution to the development of PEISS; (vi) displaying exhibits on environmental services, initiatives and other related information; and (vii) initiating an official registry of EIA practitioners.
With over 600 participants from the private sector, national and local government, academe, non-government organizations, people’s organizations, development agencies, local and international EIA practitioners and the lively exchange of information and ideas, common understanding and appreciation of the PEISS was gained. Further, having identified gaps, challenges through sharing of practical experiences by various stakeholders, listening to suggestions on setting standards in EIA from practitioners and having initiated networking of EIA practitioners through the registry system, options to systematically enhance the effectiveness of the PEISS have been opened up. Likewise, donor organizations which have participated in the
convention expressed support to the initiatives to further improve the PEISS.
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PREPARATORY ACTIVITIES AND STRUCTURE OF THE CONVENTION
The Convention activities included:
Technical Sessions: Paper Presentations and Panel Reactions/Discussions Products and Services Exhibits Recognition of sample good EIA Reports Recognition of significant contributors to the development of the PEISS Registration of EIA Practitioners Survey on suggestions to improve the system and for the next Convention
Technical Sessions
To achieve the convention objectives, six technical sessions were identified to cover the significant developments, achievements, improvements and challenges in the system throughout its 35 years of existence as well as opportunities for setting standards. Specifically, session topics included the following:
Session 1: Historical and Regulatory Framework of the Philippine EIS System
Session 2: Environmental Assessment: An International Perspective
Session 3: Philippine EIS System – Compliance Assessment
Session 4: Philippine EIS System – Forging Partnership
Session 5: Philippine EIS System – Setting the Standards
Session 6: Moving forward
Presentors for Sessions 1, 2 and 6 on the Historical and Regulatory Framework of the PEISS, International Perspective on Environmental Assessment and Moving Forward were invited. Call for Papers was posted on the EMB Website and disseminated through the EIA Practitioners three months before the Convention for the following sessions:
Session 3: Compliance Assessment: This session focused on the strengths and challenges of the Philippine EIS System based on the experiences and insights of the private sector and other proponents of projects.
Session 4: Forging Partnership. This session dealt with the opportunities and challenges of participation in the Philippine EIS System as seen by national government agencies, local government units (LGUs), Non-Government Organizations (NGOs)/Peoples’ Organizations (POs), and other stakeholders.
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Session 5: Setting the Standards. This session focused on gaps, challenges, strengths and opportunities in the preparation, review and other regulatory aspects of the Philippine EIS System.
Paper abstract submissions were evaluated by the Convention Program Committee for appropriateness to specific session topics prior to deciding on the final presentors who were further required to submit full papers prior to the Convention. The full papers were reviewed and speakers were advised on the mechanics and suggested approach for the presentation of their papers by the members of the program committee.
During the Convention, a panel discussion/open forum was done after the presentations for each session.
Products and Services Exhibit
At the rear portion of the Convention Hall, there were a total of 18 exhibitors of environmental and related products, services and initiatives namely, EMB- Environmental Impact Assessment and Management Division (EIAMD), Asian Development Bank (ADB), PCAPI Region IV-A Chapter, Inc., Clean haul Environmental Services, Inc., Clean way Technology Corp. (HERMA GROUP), Basic Occupational Safety Supplies Philippines, Inc. (BOSS), Blue Sky Trading Co., Inc., San Miguel Corporation, HOLCIM Philippines, Inc., AECOM Phils. Inc., Sagittarius Mines, Inc., First Carbon Solutions Corp., Ostrea Mineral Laboratories, Inc., Maritrans Recycler, Inc., Energy Development Corp. (EDC), TADCHEM Marketing, SM Prime Holdings, Inc., and EMB– DENR. After the ribbon cutting as part of the opening program, the exhibit area was opened to the participants.
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Recognition and Awarding Ceremonies
The evolution of the PEISS in its 35 years of existence as one of the most mature environmental assessment systems in Asia in terms of administrative procedures and guidance was made possible through the contribution of personalities. These personalities including those who have been serving the PEISS for a long time, those who are currently working outside the country, those who are with international organizations and those who have passed away were given due recognition during the EIA Convention.
Further, in relation to continuing efforts of the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) to enhance its implementation by encouraging excellence in EIA Report preparation, samples of good EIA Reports were showcased during the First National Convention.
Six months prior to the convention, the Regional Offices of the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) were asked to nominate one sample of each of the different EIA Report types. With the Evaluation Criteria and Rating System formulated by the Recognition Committee and the Technical Evaluation Committee, good EIA reports were selected and given recognition during the Convention.
Registration of EIA Professionals
The issuance of EMB Memorandum Circular 2013-003 marked the Establishment of the Registry System for Individual EIA Practitioners as well as EIA Consulting Firms. The Registry System was launched during the EIA Convention where numbers of
9 | P a g e applications for registration were received: eight as Individual EIA Reviewers, 81 as Individual Preparers and 16 as EIA Consulting Firms.
Survey on suggestions to improve the system and for the next Convention
The well-participated National EIA Convention was an opportune time to solicit suggestions from various stakeholders for the continual improvement of the various aspects or elements of the Philippine EIS System. As such, survey forms were distributed to the participants to gather views on the following:
Improving the PEISS, Improving the integration of result of impact assessment in project feasibility/design, Contributing for the further improvement of the PEISS, The next convention
PROCEEDINGS
After several months of preparation, over 600 participants representing all regions of the country and various sectors of the society i.e., private, government, NGOs, POs, academe attended the National Convention on the Philippine EIS System on 19-21 June 2013 at the Manila Hotel. It was indeed a historical event, being a celebration of EIA’s 35th anniversary since its inception in the Philippines, and the first ever National Convention on EIA, gathering all sectors in one venue of historical relevance, and opened on a historical date for all Filipinos (Rizal Day). The three – day Convention was full of activities worth remembering as part of history of country’s efforts to balance economic progress and environmental protection.
DAY 1: 19 JUNE 2013
OPENING CEREMONIES
The cutting of the ribbon with DENR Undersecretary Analiza R. Teh and Atty. Joey D. Lina, Manila Hotel President - as guests of honor, assisted by Atty. Juan Miguel T. Cuna, EMB Director, Atty. Michael Drake P. Matias, OIC, EMB- EIA Management Division, and Engr. Florante A. Panganiban, President, PCAPI Region IVA marked the opening of the Convention as well as the opening of the booths/exhibits.
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Pastor Jonaver Luklukan rendered an offertory song which was enhanced by a dance number from the FEBC Dance Ministry. The program went on with Pastor Luklukan singing the opening prayer and the national anthem.
Pastor Wilfredo Dumpit and Ms. Soccoro Patindol, Advisers of PCAPI R4-A and masters of ceremony for the Convention, gave a brief introduction of the event and recognized the convention partners and sponsors.
WELCOME REMARKS BY: ATTY. JOEY LINA, FORMER SENATOR AND CURRENT PRESIDENT OF MANILA HOTEL
Atty. Joey Lina welcomed the participants, guests and speakers to Centennial Hall of Manila Hotel which happens to be a historical landmark, having celebrated its 100 Years of existence. Manila Hotel, he said, is a very ideal place to host this historic event, The first Philippine Convention on the Philippine Environmental Impact Statement System (PEISS). He assured that Manila Hotel supports the objectives of the Convention and offered services that the hotel can further do to make the convention successful.
OPENING REMARKS BY: ATTY. JUAN MIGUEL T. CUNA, OIC-DIRECTOR, ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT BUREAU-DENR
Atty. Juan Miguel Cuna’s opening remarks centered on the following:
The establishment of the Philippine EIS System as one of the oldest environmental laws, is seen as a vital tool to prevent environmental degradation and thus preserve the environment and is a prelude to enactment of other environmental laws dealing with specific aspects of environmental management.
The PEISS along with the process of securing Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) as the most dynamic yet controversial mandate of the DENR, is a manifestation of the increasing awareness and importance of EIA process as a planning tool to balance the socio economic demand of the society and the need to safeguard the environment.
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He enjoined the participants to actively participate during the Convention which aims to promote common understanding and appreciation of the Philippine EIA System and envisioned to heighten commitment for proper use and practice of PEISS.
KEYNOTE ADDRESS BY: ATTY. ANALIZA REBUELTA-TEH, UNDERSECRETARY, DENR
Atty. Analiza Rebuelta-Teh delivered the keynote message from the DENR Secretary Ramon J.P. Paje.
The protest of the movement that wanted to put an end to the worsening atrocities committed by humans to the environment echoed the walls of the plenary hall of the Stockholm Conference also known as United Nations Conference on Human Environment. With 113 countries and 400 governmental and non-governmental organizations in attendance to this first global environmental conference, global environmental awareness was triggered. It set the provisions for the modern-day international environmental law and laid the foundations to the concept of sustainable development.
The Philippines has always been a part of this movement which the United Nations Environment Programme describes as the movement that liberated man from the threat of environmental perils of its own making. Just about five years after the Stockholm Conference in 1977, our country was among the first countries in the world to lay an environmental law to put a rational balance between socio-economic development and environmental protection. The requirement for an environmental impact assessment to predict and evaluate the likely impact of the project to the environment was put into law. Simple as it may sound but the notion and process of complying comes with a lot of complications and complexities. First, tension between economic and environmental pillars of sustainability will always exist. While, private and business organizations are focused on finding profit, environmental impact statement is focused on ensuring environmental protection that could be seen as too costly or limiting to business operations. Second, the interpretations of the law were often influenced by individual judgements because of ambiguities and inconsistencies in the procedures and organizational concerns which results to corruption. Perhaps these were the reasons why the law has to undergo a lot of changes, streamlining and developments during its 35 years of existence. It needed to undergo meaningful experiences in order to realize and correct its shortcomings and loopholes. It needed to undergo redirections to cope with the changing needs of the changing times. We cannot afford to waste economic opportunities or compromise the integrity of our environment. That is why there is need to continuously upgrade the PEISS’ overall process to be more efficient and more effective.
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DENR now focuses on six major strategic policy thrusts for the Philippine EIS System as follows: 1. Formulation of a more objective screening system to be devolved from ambiguities and inconsistencies; 2. Streamlining of procedures to facilitate more development projects; 3. Simplification and standardization of the application requirements to have a more uniform enforcement across the country; 4. Enhancement of transparency mechanism for public disclosure and to free the system with corruption; 5. Enhancement of monitoring mechanism to regularly assess the performance of regulated communities; and 6. Institutionalization and enhancement of the capability program to ensure that the implementers and reporters have sufficient and sustained skills.
However, along with these thrusts, there is a need for various stakeholders to have a deeper understanding of what the system is all about which is among the key objectives of this convention. Implementers and various stakeholders must have a common understanding that the EIS system is not only about complying with the requirements nor about issuing or just getting the ECC. Proponents should be guided in their decisions on how to properly adapt to the environment where they plan to operate.
Moreover, in the succeeding days, all will hopefully have a deeper appreciation. From the government’s perspective, PEISS evolution, regulatory framework and challenges will be presented. For an international perspective, we will be shown how we are at par with the other EIS Systems and we will be given insights on the best practices of other countries. From a business sector’s perspective, we will learn about common problems and difficulties in preparing the Environmental Impact Statement. For key stakeholders’ perspective, will see that building partnerships with other government agencies, LGUs, NGOs, POs and other society groups can strengthen and make an efficient implementation of the EIS System.
TECHNICAL SESSIONS
SESSION 1: HISTORICAL AND REGULATORY FRAMEWORK OF THE PHILIPPINE EIS SYSTEM
The first session was on the historical and regulatory framework of the PEISS, its challenges, policy directions, current initiatives and ongoing efforts of the EMB to strengthen the system.
The speakers for this session were Ms. Amelia Dulce Supetran, one of the early Chiefs of the Adhoc Environmental Impact Assessment Division of the former National Environmental Protection council (now the EMB-DENR), who is considered as one of the pioneers and pillars for the development the Philippine EIS System, now with the
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United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Dr. Eva Ocfemia, who is currently the OIC-Assistant Director of EMB-DENR.
The session was facilitated by Atty. Brenda Jay Angeles- Mendoza, an Asian Development Bank (ADB) Consultant and lecturer at the La Salle University College of Law, teaching Natural Resources and Environmental Laws.
PHILIPPINE EIS SYSTEM: INCEPTION AND HISTORY BY: MS. AMELIA DULCE SUPETRAN, A PIONEER OF THE PEISS (NOW WITH UNDP)
Ms. Amelia Dulce Supetran presented the “Inception and History of the Philippine EIS System” by discussing both the international events, movements and initiatives that led to the inception of the practice of EIA and how these influenced the establishment of the system in the Philippines.
At the international scene, the following initiatives, movements and events led governments of various countries and international agreements to require EIA for development initiatives with potential significant impacts to the environment:
In the United States of America, the “Silent Spring” written by Rachel Carson published in 1962 led to the appreciation for the environment and growing concerns about ecological and wildlife well-being and grew more intense at the latter half of 1960’s with the public outcry after the 1969 Santa Barbara oil spill. With these, the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) was constituted as the first formal procedural requirements for EIA.
Huge controversy among scientists, scholars, and the general public was sparked by “The Limits to Growth, originally published in 1972, by Donella Meadows, which reflected that continuing with a “business as usual” growth model would likely lead to environmental and economic collapse within a century. The UN General Assembly decided to convene the Stockholm Conference in 1972, at the initiative of the Government of Sweden, recognized as the beginning of modern political and public awareness of global environmental problems. The OECD “Declaration on Environmental Policy” (1974) was the first international document to incorporate EIA. Article 9 of the declaration stated that it was critical that environmental impact of significant public or private activities be assessed prior to implementation. The oldest environmental impact assessment
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procedure was contained in the OECD “Council Recommendation on Assessment of Projects which may have Significant Effects on the Environment” (1979).
The emergence of sustainable development agenda sparked by the 1987 report of the Brundtland Commission (created by the United Nations in 1984) entitled “Our Common Future” was also an influential factor in the development and improvement of EIA Systems in developing countries. Building on the report of the Brundtland Commission, the United Nations launched an agenda for change, known as the Agenda 21, at the Earth Summit or UN Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED) held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The requirement of a state to conduct an environmental impact assessment (EIA) with respect to activities with the potential to significantly affect the environment is reflected in Principle 17 of the UNCED (United Nations, 1992) which recognized EIA as a key tool for environmental protection and sustainable development.
In the Philippines, the following reflects the historical perspective of how the PEISS evolved in relation to the happenings at the international scene:
As early as 1964, the National Pollution Control Commission (NPCC) was created to handle air and water pollution control in the country. The Philippine government then, seemed to have equated environmental management with pollution control as evidenced by enactment of the Pollution Control Law prior to the declaration of the National Environmental Policy. The administrative and regulatory machineries were focused largely on how to control pollution rather than on pollution preventive ways to improve environmental quality. The requirement for an Environmental Impact Statement was originally conceived along with the national environmental framework embodied in the Philippine Environmental Policy (Presidential Decree 1151) and in the Philippine Environmental Code (Presidential Decree 1152), both of which were enacted on June 6, 1977, five years after the Stockholm Conference, making the Philippines among the first countries to adopt an EIA concept after the US. The framework, working structure and procedures for the implementation were defined in PD 1586 with the establishment of the Philippine EIS System in 1978. With the sustainable development paradigm launched in the international scene through the Rio Summit in 1992 and adopted in the Philippines through national agenda and blueprint known as Philippine Agenda 21 (PA 21), EIA gained prominence as a tool in the country’s pursuit for sustainable development focusing on precautionary approach rather than pollution control.
As one of the pioneers in the development of the EIA System in the Philippines, she went on further by giving her view on EIA as it was originally conceived in the Philippines.
Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) are interdisciplinary analyses of the natural, human health, and socio-cultural effects which are expected to result from public and private sector actions such as development projects. The purpose of these studies is to comprehensively inform decision makers and the affected public about both the
15 | P a g e proposed action and its alternatives, so that wherever possible, significant negative impacts may be avoided, minimized, or mitigated. A fundamental concept of environmental understanding and stewardship is the need for an integrated holistic approach to knowledge building and decision making. EIA process is an information policy not a substantive regulatory one such as a pollution law.
Publics are often confused as to why, after participating (providing data, making comments), in an EIS analysis that concludes negative impacts will occur, a decision is made to issue an ECC. Public information regarding who makes the decisions and how they will make them is typically lacking at the start of the EIA process. The actual physical and socio-economic outcomes which result from the EIA process are poorly understood. Most program evaluations have focused on document outputs, such as the contents of the EIS, rather than studying the actual short and long-term outdoor environment. Questions remain regarding the implementation and effectiveness of the EIA.
More than three decades after the seedbed of environmental assessment has been planted, however, the Philippines seems to be “in no better shape as environmental degradation continued to escalate, threatening not only human health but undermining the development prospects” of the country. “Ironically, the momentum of development has conceivably overstepped the urgency of caring for the environment on which its future prospects ultimately depend (Philippine Council for Sustainable Development).”
REGULATORY FRAMEWORK: CHALLENGES, INITIATIVES AND POLICY DIRECTIVES BY: DR. EVA OCFEMIA, OIC-ASSISTANT DIRECTOR, EMB-DENR
Dr. Eva Ocfemia gave a brief history of EIA in the Philippines, having originally conceived in 1977 with the issuance of the Philippine Environmental Policy (Presidential Decree 1151) and with Presidential Decree 1586 issued on 11 June 1978 establishing the Philippine EIS System (PEISS).
She also gave an overview of the regulatory framework of the PEISS including its scope, requirements, procedures and standards for review and compliance monitoring.
In the last 10 years, she said that there was an increased awareness and appreciation of the Philippine EIS System on the part of other government agencies, financial and banking institutions, and local government units resulting to a significantly improved compliance rate. However, with the “high popularity” of the EIS System, the Bureau still faces the following implementation challenges:
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Significant increase in number of the regulated community compounded further with the demands for more thorough yet streamlined processes overwhelm DENR human power and budget resources. There is also a very high turnover rate of staff due to issues on the security of tenure as well as better paying work opportunities in the private sector. Misconceptions by a significant portion of our regulated community who still view the ECC as a permit or as a regulatory instrument. Hence, the real benefits of the EIA process have not been fully realized as the implementation veers away from the original intent, as also mentioned by Ms. Supetran, that the establishment of the PEISS is premised on the use of the EIA process as a planning/ management tool. Overlapping mandates with local government units have brought about political pressures and sometimes, institutional conflicts. There is a need to improve the disclosure mechanisms to address the proponent’s reluctance for public releases of information especially concerning business and proprietary information as well as NGOs’ criticisms on the difficulty in getting access to information about proposed projects. There is a need for sustained uniformity and standardized implementation/enforcement of the PEISS across the 16 EMB Regional Offices.
She said that facing the challenges head-on, the bureau has been continually implementing progressive enhancement and improvement initiatives for the PEISS consistent with DENR’s six major strategic policy thrusts as mentioned in the DENR Secretary’s Keynote Message delivered by Undersecretary Teh.
PLENARY FORUM Atty. Brenda Jay Angeles – Mendoza Facilitator
After the presentations, Atty. Angeles, gave a summary of the key points contained in the presentation and opened the floor for questions and reactions from the participants. Among the questions and reactions raised were regarding clarifications on existing policies and procedures, suggestions for improving the system, clarifications on the challenges, the participation of the community in the EIA Process, acceptability of the PEISS review process to international funding agencies and the capacity of the government agencies implementing infrastructure projects on environmental management.
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SESSION 2: ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT: AN INTERNATIONAL PERSPECTIVE
The second session was focused on emerging tools and approaches on EIA, both international and local including comparison among various country systems.
The first speaker for this session was Dr. Richard Morgan, Professor of Geography at the University of Ontago, Dunedin, New Zealand, former President and Board member of the International Association for Impact Assessment (IAIA) and Chair of the New Zealand Association for Impact Assessment (NZAIA) who discussed the good practice of impact assessment.
The second speaker was Ms. Helen Cruda, Senior Safeguard Specialist at ADB who discussed the Country Safeguards Systems.
The last speaker for this session was Dr. Peter King, Senior Policy Advisor for Institute for Global Environmental Strategies (IGES) in Bangkok, Thailand, former Director of the Asian Development Bank (ADB), Head Secretariat of the Asian Environmental Compliance and Enforcement Network (AECEN) who discussed comparative study of EIA Systems.
The session was facilitated by Atty. Angela Consuelo Ibay.
REAP THE REWARDS: THE CASE FOR GOOD PRACTICE IMPACT ASSESSMENT BY: DR. RICHARD K. MORGAN, CHAIR, NEW ZEALAND ASSOCIATION FOR
IMPACT ASSESSMENT (NZAIA)
Impact assessment is a significant decision- support process used in virtually all nations around the world. However, the current economic crisis has increased calls to cut “green tape” and streamline project approval procedures, in order to speed economic development.
Therefore, in many countries, impact assessment procedures are coming under increasing pressure, the implication being that they are impediments to economic growth. In contrast, the Green Economy movement promotes economic growth based on sustainable development principles as another route out of the economic crisis. Green economies will rely heavily on approaches such as impact assessment to ensure decisions meet the principles of Green Growth. In this presentation, he drew on current international thinking about good practice impact assessment to show that well-designed and well-implemented impact
18 | P a g e assessment is more likely to save costs and lead to better development outcomes in the long term, and that these are consistent with the messages of the Green Economy movement. Rather than blindly cutting “green tape,” governments need to focus on improving implementation and practice, and should consider signing up to the Green Economy approach. However, achieving those ends requires appropriate institutional arrangements, and a practitioner community willing to deliver substance, not merely compliance.
STRENGTHENING COUNTRY SAFEGUARD SYSTEMS: TOWARDS COMMON APPROACH AND BETTER RESULTS BY: MS. HELEN B. CRUDA, SENIOR SAFEGUARD SPECIALIST, ADB
The Asian and Pacific region is at risk of instability unless its recent dynamic growth becomes more equitable and environmentally sustainable. It is therefore critical that future economic growth is socially inclusive and environmentally sustainable. Safeguards are a cornerstone for ensuring socially inclusive and environmentally sustainable growth. Thus, strong country safeguard systems (CSS) - which refer to a country’s legal and institutional framework covering environmental assessment, involuntary resettlement and indigenous peoples— are central to achieving equitable and environmentally sustainable economic progress.
ADB’s experience in implementation of technical assistance in strengthening CSS focusing on environmental assessment in at least 15 countries in terms of its policy, instruments, initial outcomes, and lessons learned was discussed. The presentation highlighted what ADB is doing as regard to initiatives in improving the Philippine EIS System. In relation to this, partnerships forged by multilateral and bilateral agencies on safeguards in 2012, and ADB’s plans to move forward its CSS strengthening agenda aims to help ensure that countries like the Philippines, have robust environmental safeguard system, at par with international best practice and effectively applied to all projects regardless of source of financing.
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COMPARATIVE STUDY OF EIA SYSTEMS: PHILIPPINES AND OTHER COUNTRIES BY: DR. PETER KING, HEAD OF SECRETARIAT, ASIAN ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE AND ENFORCEMENT NETWORK (AECEN)
A brief overview of impact assessment process and requirements in the United States, Japan, Malaysia, China, Korea and EU was discussed and the following general observations were given:
With regards to international concerns, he said that the following should be considered:
Transboundery EIA treaties would ensure that extraterritorial impacts are given the same scrutiny as domestic impacts. To improve efficacy of international EIA systems, it would be necessary to either: (i) create matching international regulations analogous to the domestic ones that empower environmental ministries (ii) ensure that member-nations have EIAs for international ones. Capacity building and harmonization of EIA systems among countries. There are existing mechanisms for twining partnerships among interested countries.
Among the common challenges in EIA practice that was mentioned are loopholes in the list of prescribed projects, late timing – decision has already been made to proceed, inadequate consideration of alternatives, Incremental rather than cumulative impacts, conflicting interests- public sector projects are often the worst offenders for non-compliance, inadequate qualifications and certification, lack of data – especially cause-effect or dose-response data, systematic under-estimation of costs and Inadequate monitoring plans.
He provided the following recommendations:
Environmental assessment should be implemented earlier (at program or policy formulation stage – (Strategic Environmental Assessment) to identify other alternatives at earliest stage before decisions are locked in. EIA could improve accountability if independent reviewers were to conduct the EIA review process; EIAs should include also possible long-term and decommissioning impacts. Consider moving from target clearance type of assessment to “best effort” types of assessment. “Best-effort” assessments may reveal more effective options than if minimal predefined and static targets were to be achieved. EIAs alone do not suffice. Compliance with EIA process/procedures at the approval stage, does not guarantee enforcement till the end of the project life- cycle. Environmental protection standards and other regulations plus effective compliance and enforcement can increase environmental effectiveness when implemented alongside EIAs.
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PLENARY FORUM Atty. Angela Consuelo Ibay Facilitator
After the presentations, Atty. Ibay gave a summary of the key points contained in the presentation and opened the floor for questions and reactions from the participants. Among the key points discussed were the following: EIA process presents an opportunity to evaluate policies such as environmental standards and market-based instruments (Dr. King). ADB is also into providing technical assistance such as an ambient air quality study in relation to the operation of a coal- fired power plant in Cebu, which if successful, can be replicated for standard setting in specific communities. A suggestion that funding institutions like ADB, JICA, World Bank and USAID help EMB beyond technical cooperation to set up an online database which contains the EIS and other EIA-related documents such as Multipartite Monitoring Team Memorandum of Agreement and Manual of Operations. Environmental Impact Assessment has to be understood in a broader context. Information about what the actual impacts at the various stages of the project life cycle should be fed back into the design and future environmental impact assessment of similar projects or in a similar area. Key part of improvement to the EIA procedure where you can capture information from individual projects and make sure that it is fed back into future projects (Dr. King). The ultimate incentive for going beyond compliance in EIA for developers is avoiding future cost such as delays. There is a need to get across the message that the better use of the system is they internalize impact assessment into their own procedures, project design. Rather than environmental compliance giving a reward, it should reap the reward by early use of assessment. However, the problem is usually the middle or smaller companies who still need to understand and see that it is not just a legal process (Dr. Morgan). The strength of the Philippine EIS System is in the process of evolution, the weaknesses is in the planning area. The Philippines should have much more strategic environmental system of proposed planned programs (Dr. King).
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SESSION 3: PHILIPPINE EIS SYSTEM- COMPLIANCE ASSESSMENT
The session focused on the costs and benefits of compliance as well as the gaps, challenges and strengths of the system based on the experiences and insights of the private sector.
The first speaker for this session was Ms. Regina Victoria J. Pascual, Senior Manager at the Environmental Management Department, Energy Development Corporation. She relayed how EIA helped EDC in promoting environmental stewardship, people empowerment, and social equity.
The second speaker was Mr. Joselito Bacani, former Chairman of the Environment Committee of the Chamber of Mines of the Philippines, who discussed the challenges and opportunities in environmental management.
The third speaker was Mr. Mark Tom Mulingbayan, representing the Environment Committee of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry. He presented “Third Party Audit” as an option to EIA monitoring.
HARMONIZING ENERGY DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION’S ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL INITIATIVES WITH THE PHILIPPINE EIS SYSTEM BY: MS. REGINA VICTORIA PASCUAL, SENIOR MANAGER, ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT DEPARTMENT, EDC
The initiatives of Energy Development Corporation (EDC) for the past 37 years to promote environmental stewardship, people empowerment and social equity, and how these initiatives evolved through the years guided by the Philippine EIS System (PEISS) were presented.
The Company’s environmental management, watershed management and community relations programs are continuously evolving to conform with the changing and increasing expectations of its stakeholders and of the Philippine environment sector. EDC’s environmental history has evolved with the evolution of the PEISS.
As EDC continuously strengthens its environmental leadership in the energy industry, it has embarked on geothermal innovations that minimize environmental impacts and improve the overall sustainability of its projects. The watershed management activities of EDC are geared to promote forest protection, biodiversity conservation, and climate change adaptation. EDC has also benchmarked its social development programs which have sustainably improved the lives of its host communities. These initiatives have paved the way for EDC to achieve environmental and social initiatives that are beyond
22 | P a g e compliance. Despite of all these, EDC sees new frontiers of enhancement that will benefit the stakeholders of PEISS and few were cited in the presentation.
CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES IN ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT: PERSPECTIVE ON EIA COMPLIANCE AND RELATED INITIATIVES OF THE CHAMBER OF MINES OF THE PHILIPPINES BY: MR. JOSELITO BACANI, FORMER CHAIRMAN OF THE ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE, CHAMBER OF MINES OF THE PHILIPPINES (COMP)
Since its inception, the Philippine Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) System has already identified major resource extractive industries like mining as an environmentally critical project (ECP) that requires an EIA. Proponents of large-scale mining projects prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), which, after review by a multi-disciplinary committee, stakeholder consultations, and other processes, an Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) is expectantly issued by the DENR.
Apart from the EIS System, large-scale mining is also governed by the 1995 Mining Act. Its environmental protection chapter complements the EIA through regulations that ensure that mining projects are managed in an environmentally-responsible manner. Thus, large-scale mining companies, depending on their phase of development, are further guided by their approved Environmental Work Program (EWP), Environmental Protection and Enhancement Program (EPEP), and Environmental Monitoring and Audit. Mining companies also set up a Contingent Liability and Rehabilitation Fund (CLRF) – a unique Environmental Guarantee Fund (EGF) mechanism that extends beyond the mine’s life.
Notwithstanding the challenges in complying with EIA and related regulations, the Chamber of Mines continues to work towards strengthened environmental management that is consistent with EIA objectives by taking initiatives (e.g., Corporate Social and Environmental Responsibility Guidebook: Compliance and Beyond, and Industry Scorecard which gauges, among others, progress on environmental management) and seizing opportunities (e.g., International Council on Mining and Metals or ICMM that seeks improvement in environmental performance and sustainability reporting using the Global Reporting Initiative framework) for improved compliance and responsibility.
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VALIDATING ECC COMPLIANCE WITH THIRD PARTY AUDITS BY: MR. MARK TOM MULINGBAYAN, ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE, PHILIPPINE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY (PCCI)
The success and sustainability of a country’s Environmental Impact Statement System does not solely rest on the issuance of Environmental Compliance Certificates to project proponents, but in ensuring that environmental safeguards work for projects are actually done and validated. Currently, the standard mode of monitoring the environmental safeguards work is done through a Multi-partite Monitoring Team (MMT).
A Third Party Audit is an alternate option but has not been used extensively due to the absence of operating guidelines. It can be shown that this alternative offers a more efficient and effective way of monitoring compliance as it makes use of a set of skills and experience not necessarily readily available to the members of a newly-formed MMT. However, some mechanisms need to be put in place such as making third party audit reports available to interested stakeholders, and ensuring that third party auditors are qualified and their integrity unquestioned.
The authors are officers of the Environment Committee of Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, which promotes environmental awareness in the Philippine Business Sector.
PLENARY FORUM Atty. Angela Consuelo Ibay Facilitator
After the presentations, Atty. Ibay gave a summary of the key points contained in the presentation and opened the floor for questions and reactions from the participants. Among the key points discussed were the following:
Thru the years, with the PEISS as among its guide, EDC has been continuously implementing environmental initiatives including carbon sequestration efforts, monitoring and solar power development. The Chamber of Mines of the Philippines (CoMP) is helping mining companies operate without delays thru talks with Mines and Geosciences Bureau-DENR on procedures for securing needed approvals such as the Final Mining
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Rehabilitation and Decommissioning Program (FMRDP) which was cited as one which takes number of years processing. The EIA System provides an opportunity for government agencies to meet and resolve issues on inconsistencies of various issuances such as local ordinances vis-s-a-vis the mining act. Mining companies see social acceptability requirement (under the EIA System) as a challenge because it causes delays on issuance of its ECC. There is a need for guidelines defining specific social acceptance parameters to help mining companies undertake their EIA quicker and more efficiently. PCCI’s recommendation regarding the use of Third Party Audits does not mean compromising the need to inform the public and involve them in the Philippine EIS system. The results of third party audit have to be communicated to the public.
DAY 2: 20 JUNE 2013
SESSION 4: FORGING PARTNERSHIP
This session dealt with the opportunities and challenges of participation in the Philippine EIS System by national government agencies, local government units, NGOs/POs and other stakeholders.
Mr. Luis Awitan, Environment and Natural Resources Officer, Batangas Provincial Government, talked about the Challenges of Participation in the Philippine EIS System from the perspective of the local government units (LGUs).
Engr. Vivian Cerrer-Toledo of the Environmental Department of the Philippine Export Processing Zone Authority (PEZA) discussed partnership through a MOA between EMB and PEZA with regards to streamlining of the processing of ECC application and coordinated monitoring for the locators in the industrial parks.
THE CHALLENGES OF PARTICIPATION IN THE PRESENT EIS SYSTEM: THE EXPERIENCE OF THE PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT OF BATANGAS BY: MR. LUIS AWITAN, ENRO, BATANGAS PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT
The Provincial Government of Batangas has been a member of several multipartite monitoring teams or MMTs for different projects located within its area of jurisdiction. It was only lately that it was understood that those activities were part of the process under the EIS System, and it was further appreciated when Mak-Ban Geothermal Power Plant Facility became one of the pilot plants for the Strengthening Environmental Performance and Monitoring
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Evaluation System of the Philippine Environmental Impact Statement System in 2004. In the present EIA process, aside from ensuring environmental protection, public participation is a very important and indispensable aspect of the process. It was not given emphasis in the early years of the EIS System, that the lack of knowledge about the project among the affected stakeholders and the lack of concern of project proponents to the apprehensions and needs of the affected community resulted to misinformation and misunderstanding, and consequently, social acceptability problem of the project.
Also under the present system, as another venue for public participation, the creation of MMTs for different projects promoted greater stakeholders’ vigilance and provided check and balance mechanisms in monitoring project implementation. Among the many advantages of the involvement of LGUs as members of the MMT is that local government or the local chief executives are informed or updated on issues relative to the project being monitored. However, there are still challenges regarding the creation and operation of MMTs that need to be addressed such as assignment and changes in membership, lifespan, and budget.
PROMOTING COMPLIANCE OF LOCATOR ENTERPRISES THROUGH THE PEZA- DENR MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT BY: ENGR. VIVIAN CERRER-TOLEDO, ENVIRONMENTAL DEPARTMENT, PEZA
The partnership between PEZA and DENR was forged to establish a balance between the need to spur economic growth in the countryside and the need to identify and address the environmental impacts of the project through the EIA process. Through the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the two agencies, clear-cut guidelines were established to streamline the requirements for processing of Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) applications in the eco-zones and reduce processing time.
The physical setup of an eco-zone has the elements to facilitate identification of environmental impact of the project and to easily provide mitigating measures: developers of an industrial estate provide water and power to the various locators; locator enterprises share a centralized wastewater treatment facility and has put up systems to ensure that emissions and discharge do not adversely affect the prevailing environmental conditions; and PEZA monitors the movement of people, goods and industrial wastes into and out of the eco-zone.
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Majority of investments in the eco-zones are classified as light to medium industries. The investors of these activities are implementing non-environmentally critical projects (non-ECPs) under the EIS system. Tools and resources established by PEZA, with the guidance of the DENR, are used to assist the investors at the earliest stage of the project cycle to easily identify and manage the industrial wastes and emissions. Existing companies, through their respective Pollution Control Officers (PCOs) have used these guidelines to amend their ECCs whenever expansion projects have impacts to the environment that are not addressed by previous studies. All these elements have come together to simplify and promote compliance in the eco-zones.
PLENARY FORUM Atty. Brenda Jay Angeles-Mendoza
After the presentations, Atty. Mendoza gave a summary of the key points contained in the presentation and opened the floor for questions and reactions from the participants. Among the key points discussed were the following: NGOs accredited by the LGU are eligible to be represented in the MMT and in cases where there are multiple NGOs, the Batangas Province example of NGOs taking turn in MMT membership can be adopted. MOA between EMB and PEZA is basically for streamlining of the processing of ECC application and coordinated monitoring for the locators in the industrial parks. This is part of their “one-stop shop” program. PEZA is not a regulator and thus recurring violations on environmental matters are referred to EMB. Community Relations Officer of PEZA takes charge in matters relating to social acceptability. There are current issues with regards to MMT system implementation and other post- ECC requirements. PEZA as well as the LGUs assisted to resolve these issues and raised these issues to EMB. Among the issues raised are the MMT requirements for individual locators of PEZA, EMF and EGF. PEZA has a procedure for registering wastes as required by various environmental regulations but the locators are responsible for auditing compliance of their facilities. The speakers were also asked of their opinion on nullification of ECC on the grounds that LGU consent was not secured prior to ECC issuance Third Party Audit can be considered in lieu of an MMT, provided that acceptable guidelines were issued.
SESSION 5A: SETTING THE STANDARD
Session 5A was intended for the discussion of the submitted papers on the use of statistical methodologies for monitoring and assessing compliance.
The first speaker for this session was Engr. Jethro Alden Hipe, an ADB Consultant, who discussed a methodology for quantitative assessment of project EIA performance.
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The second speaker, Dr. Rolando Cuano, an EIA Consultant discussed the challenges and opportunities in compliance monitoring.
METHODOLOGY FOR QUANTITATIVE ASSESSMENT OF PROJECT EIA PERFORMANCE BY: ENGR. JETHRO ALDEN HIPE, ADB CONSULTANT
The procedure, called normalized parametric binary scoring, involves assigning a score of one or zero to a specific criterion of Implementation Practice and Performance Output indicators. The EIA performance can be analyzed by calculating the normalized score, defined as the ratio of the sum of review and expected scores, either for an overall performance of a project given a set of indicators (y-axis) or for a performance indicator or a criterion across projects (x-axis). The method is systematic, organized, replicable, and flexible with minimized bias. The resulting scoring matrix allows a numerical analysis of the overall performance of a project against its own requirement, performance of two projects, a cluster of projects, or comparing clusters of projects, and a national performance, regardless of project type and process.
COMPLIANCE MONITORING: CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES BY: DR. ROLANDO CUAÑO, EIA CONSULTANT
Compliance monitoring is a key component of Philippine environmental policy. Involving a range of sampling, reporting, and inspection activities, it enables the detection of environmental impacts of development projects. Based on the assessment, specific actions may be implemented to safeguard the environment. Compliance monitoring is also integral to the environmental impact assessment (EIA). Osenberg and Schmitt (1996) called it the “postdictive process” which aims to test the validity of the likely impacts generated by the “predictive process” of the EIA.
However, compliance monitoring is far from simple. Firstly, it should be able to isolate the effects of the development project from other impacts emanating from other
28 | P a g e human activities and natural causes. Thus, compliance monitoring is strongly dependent on the EIA’s findings on the pre-project environment and predictions of project impacts. Secondly, compliance monitoring relies on measurements which are prone to errors. This must be recognized in the assessment of the project’s environmental impacts and the proponent’s compliance with regulatory requirements. Thirdly, in the face of the stiff requirements and measurement limitations, time and resource constraints limit the monitoring activities. Thus, careful planning of the monitoring in terms of parameters, stations, sampling frequency, data analysis, and quality assurance is crucial.
The presentation reviews the Compliance Monitoring component of the Philippine EIS System. Four areas for improvement: customized field assessment designs to increase statistical power; differentiation of compliance monitoring into the three stages of detection, assessment, and corrective action; statistical analyses including use of quality assurance plan and statistical intervals; and processing of monitoring data and new improved monitoring to establish a more usable database was discussed.
PLENARY FORUM Atty. Brenda Jay Angeles-Mendoza
After the presentations, Atty. Mendoza gave a summary of the key points contained in the presentation and opened the floor for questions and reactions from the participants.
The open forum centered on clarifying the details and applicability of the statistical methodologies presented. It was stressed that these methods are being recommended to provide a standardized and objective/quantitative way of assessing environmental performance and compliance.
SESSION 5B: SETTING THE STANDARDS
Session 5B was intended for the discussion of the submitted papers on setting standards methods in specific EIA modules.
The first speaker for this session was Dr. Maria Lourdes Moreno of the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau-DENR and an EIA Review Committee member. She made a presentation on the significance, methods and issues and concerns in terrestrial flora and fauna investigation in EIA.
The second speaker, Ms. Katherine Gavile presented a risk rating system for geo- hazard and environmental risk assessment.
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TERRESTRIAL FLORA AND FAUNA INVESTIGATION IN EIA: SIGNIFICANCE, METHODS, ISSUES AND CONCERNS BY: DR. MARIA LOURDES MORENO, ECOSYSTEMS RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT BUREAU-DENR
The role of flora and fauna investigations in Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is to provide sufficient data to allow a complete identification, prediction and evaluation of potential impacts of proposed developments upon that flora and fauna. This is to ensure that potential impacts, where identified, are avoided or reduced, if at all possible. Use of standard methodologies should enable impacts to be quantified and impact predictions to be reviewed in a systematic way.
The presentation detailed common methods being used in baseline flora and fauna assessment as well as the issues and concerns observed during the Environmental Impact Assessment Review. Hierarchy for mitigation and other recommendations based on observations and findings during the review process were likewise discussed.
FORMULATION OF A RISK RATING SYSTEM FOR GEOHAZARD AND ENVIRONMENTAL RISK ASSESSMENT BY: MS. KATHERINE GAVILE, AECOM
The environmental impact assessment process has seen considerable improvement over the years with respect to identification and characterization of geo-hazards in parallel with local developments in the geosciences. However, one aspect which is lacking is the determination of the frequency and likelihood of occurrence for the identified geo-hazards for the purposes of impact and environmental risk assessments.
There is no officially established geo-hazard frequency and probability rating in the Philippines comparable to international rating systems such as those of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the United States Geological Survey (USGS). Due to this, discussions of geo-hazard frequency and probability within the EIS are often subjective and undervalued. Current developments in the country’s EIA system and related regulatory requirements as well as integration of climate change adaptation and disaster risk reduction schemes in the EIS call for the establishment and adaptation of a similar rating system. The formulation and adaptation of a geo- hazard risk probability rating system is vital in aiding proponents, preparers and policy makers to 1) Formulate geo-hazard assessment that is site specific; 2) Formulate
30 | P a g e applicable control measures considering the likelihood of occurrence of the geo- hazard pre-mitigation; 3) Prioritize specific geo-hazards in engineering design and controls; 4) Develop applicable hazard scenarios to quantify asset loss in case of occurrence; 5) Promote inter-agency (DENR-EMB, MGB, PHIVOLCS, and PAGASA) cooperation in formulating a local hazard rating scheme; and 6) Communicate frequency and probability assessment to stakeholders and policy makers to enable engagement and participation in emergency response and disaster preparedness.
PLENARY FORUM Atty. Brenda Jay Angeles-Mendoza
After the presentations, Atty. Mendoza gave a summary of the key points contained in the presentation and opened the floor for questions and reactions from the participants.
The open forum centered on clarifying the details and applicability of the recommended standards for the Terrestrial Flora and Fauna Module of the EIA and the proposed rating system for geo-hazard and environmental risk assessment as presented. It was stressed that these are being recommended to provide standards for the specific EIA modules as well as a systematic way of incorporating geo-hazard and environmental risk information through a rating system.
DAY 3: 21 JUNE 2013
SESSION 6: MOVING FORWARD
Presentations for this session were on initiatives and commitments to support and strengthen the Philippine EIS System.
The first speaker was Engr. Esperanza Sajul of EMB-EIAMD. She presented the ADB project on enhancing the Philippines EIS System improvement initiatives.
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The second speaker was, Atty. Dilbert Quetulio, Secretary of the Committee on Ecology of the House of Representatives. He discussed the salient features of the EIA Bill.
ENHANCING THE PHILIPPINE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT SYSTEM IMPROVEMENT INITIATIVES WITH ASSISTANCE FROM ADB TA 7566 BY: ENGR. ESPERANZA SAJUL, CHIEF, REVIEW AND ASSESSMENT SECTION, EIAMD, EMB-DENR
ADB TA 7566-REG: Enhancing the Philippine Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) System Improvement Initiatives, under the Asian Development Bank (ADB) Southeast Asia Energy Division (SEEN) of the Southeast Asia Department (SERD). ADB TA 7566-REG was implemented in partnership with the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) of the Philippines’ Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). The TA-7566-REG is a subproject under TA-7566 that aims to strengthen CSS in one or more of the following areas in each participating developing member country (DMC). The specific outcome of the subproject is an enhanced PEISS performance through strengthened environmental screening and compliance monitoring.
This presentation discussed the eight outputs of the subproject, namely: (1) Revised Environmental Impact Statement Screening Guidelines; (2) Updated and Upgraded Computer-based Project Screening System; (3) Institutionalized Linkage for Continuous Updating of the ECA Maps; (4) Online Web-Based Project Screening Information System; (5) IEC Materials and Plan on the EIA Requirement Coverage; (6) Capacity Development and Updating/Upgrading; (7) Enhanced Compliance Monitoring System; and (8) Technical assistance for the drafting of EIA Bill.
The presentation showed the framework of how specific products were identified and formulated for each of these outputs, particularly the processes and activities involved. A memorandum circular, including a screening manual constitute the products under Output #1. A set of memorandum of understanding with the different partner-national agencies is the core product of Output #3. An upgraded EIS information system is the common product that linked Outputs #2, #4 and #7. An institutional and IEC plan linked both Outputs #5 and #6. Finally, the product for Output #8 is the draft bill on Philippine Environmental Assessment System, approved by the Committee on Ecology of the House of Representatives.
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AN ACT TO ESTABLISH THE PHILIPPINE ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT (EA) SYSTEM BY: ATTY. DILBERT QUETULIO, SECRETARY, COMMITTEE ON ECOLOGY OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Since its conceptualization in 1977 under Presidential Decree 1151 and the establishment of the system through Presidential Decree 1586 in 1978, the implementation of the Philippine EIS System went through a wealth of experiences and lessons learned as developments continue in the international scene of environmental impact assessment practice.
The Committee on Ecology has approved the bill entitled "An Act to Establish the Philippine Environmental Assessment (EA) System" in the 15th Congress after series of consultations with various stakeholders involved and affected by the implementation of the system as well as with professionals with knowledge on international best practices in environmental assessment
As defined in the bill, Environmental Assessment (EA) System covers both (1) Strategic Environmental Assessment or SEA for policies, plans and programs and (2) Environmental Impact Assessment or EIA for projects. The Bill seeks to address the overly-liberal interpretation of the very general law which oftentimes cause confusion among investors, NGOs, NGAs and other stakeholders. It aims to provide long term solution to issues and concerns encountered through the years of the Philippine EIS System implementation which could be strategically accomplished through legislative action.
The Committee on Ecology considered the EIA Convention as an opportunity to present the Bill to a wide audience of stakeholders and make a final call for position papers for consideration in pushing this Bill in the 16th Congress.
PLENARY FORUM Atty. Brenda Jay Angeles-Mendoza
After the presentations, Atty. Mendoza gave a summary of the key points contained in the presentation and opened the floor for questions and reactions from the participants. Questions raised were basically on clarifying certain implementation aspects of existing regulations, on clarifying proposed enhancements that are being undertaken by EMB and that which are being proposed under the environmental assessment bill, and recommendations for inclusion into the environmental
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assessment bill. Among the concerns raised were the following:
how to address existing implementation issues readiness of stakeholders for the proposed enhancements such as accreditation system for EIA preparers the need to strengthen the monitoring capacity of the EMB and the capacity of community and other stakeholders in participating in the EIA process delineating ECAs vis a vis allowing development defining size of projects that are covered by the PEISS replacement of ECC with Certificate of Proponent’s Environmental Commitment (CEPC) Many of the questions were on related provisions of the environmental assessment bill. Among the key recommendations noted for consideration in the proposed bill were the following:
inclusion of mechanisms for settling disputes integration of CCA and DRR in EIA mandatory creation of environmental units in LGUs Fiscal incentives in relation to going beyond compliance.
RECOGNITION AND AWARDING CEREMONIES
In celebration of the 35th Year of the Philippine EIS System, personalities who have made significant contribution to the PEISS, through the years of its evolution were given recognition in Day 3 of the Convention.
Likewise, to promote excellence in EIA Report Preparation, sample good EIA Reports were recognized.
A Recognition Committee was formed as part of the working committee for the Convention to handle the plans and programs for the recognition and awarding ceremonies including the development of the criteria for the evaluation of the EIA Reports.
RECOGNITION OF INDIVIDUALS WITH RENOWNED CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE PEISS
The efforts and contributions of the following former DENR-EMB officials and pioneering members of the EIA Review Committee who have made significant contributions to the improvement of the Philippine EIS System were recognized:
Mr. Reynaldo Alcanses, former EIA Division Chief, EMB-DENR (†)
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Engr. Julian Amador, former Director, EMB-DENR (†) Ms. Beta Balagot, former Assistant Director, EMB-DENR (†) Dr. Marlito Cardenas, former Director, EMB -DENR(†) Mr. Rodrigo Fuentes, former Director, EMB-DENR (†) Dr. Delfin Ganapin Jr., former Director, EMB and former Undersecretary, DENR Mr. Amador Remigio Jr., former EIA Division Chief, NEPC Dr. Celso Roque, former Undersecretary, DENR (†) Ms. Amelia Dulce Supetran, former EIA Division Chief, EMB-DENR Dr. Carlos Tomboc, former Director, EMB-DENR Mr. Eduardo Taala, former EIA Division Chief, NEPC En.P. Sixto Tolentino Jr., former EIA Division Chief, EMB-DENR Ms. Amelia Brillantes-Ward, former EIA Division Chief, EMB-DENR Engr. Benedicto Adan, member, EIA Review Committee (†) Dr. Sylvia Guerrero, member, EIA Review Committee Dr. Reynaldo Lesaca, member, EIA Review Committee (†) Dr. Luzviminda Valencia, member, EIA Review Committee (†) Engr. Pedro Viray, member, EIA Review Committee (†) deceased
Plaque of Appreciation was given to Prof Agerico De Villa for his offering of longest and enduring service as a dedicated member to the EIA Technical Review Committee of the Philippine EIS System, from 1992 to present. Certificate of Appreciation was also given to Engr. Esperanza Sajul for her offering of longest and enduring public service as part of the EMB EIAMD, from 1987 to present.
RECOGNITION OF GOOD EIA REPORTS
To encourage excellence in EIA Report preparation, samples of good EIA Reports were showcased during the First National Convention.
Among the EIA Report types considered were the following:
Main Responsible Entity for EIA Report Type EIA Report Preparation Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) EIS Consultant/Preparer
Compliance Monitoring Report (CMR) Project Proponent
Compliance Monitoring and Validation MMT Report (CMVR)
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Nominated EIA Reports for each of the above-mentioned types were subjected to evaluation by a Technical Evaluation Committee (TEC) headed by Engr. Dodjie Maestrocampo, SVP, Mapua Institute of Technology and with the following members:
Engr. Elsie Cezar, former Chief of the Review and Evaluation Section, EIAMD (currently, Environmental Manager, FSGRI) Mr. Renato Cruz, Chief, Environmental Quality Division, EMB Ms. Soledad Natalia Dalisay, EIARC Member- Anthropology Dr. Agerico De Villa, EIARC Member, Philosophy Dr. Emilyn Espiritu, ADMU Environmental Science Department Head, EIARC Member, Ecotoxicology, Biomonitoring Ecology Dr. Rene Rollon, UP Diliman Environmental Science Department Head, EIARC Member, Marine Biology
Mr. Jason Villegas, EIARC Member, Energy, Geology, Mining Engineer, Engineer Geology
Engr. Pura Pedrosa, Chief, Policy and Special Projects Section, EIAMD-EMB
Engr. Esperanza Sajul, Chief, Review and Evaluation Section, EIAMD-EMB Ms. Michico Venus Navaluna, Chief, Monitoring and Validation Section, EIAMD-EMB
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Prior to the Convention, the nominated sample good EIA Reports were evaluated based on the rating system and the following criteria developed by the Recognition Committeein coordination with the TEC: Scientific Approach and Coherence - technical merits in terms of the use of appropriate methods, adherence to professional standards and consistency or coherence.
Technical Comprehensiveness – completeness in presenting the appropriate and necessary information as well as the corresponding findings and recommendations to achieve the purpose of the Report/Section.
Effectiveness of communication – effectiveness to communicate with intended users in terms of clarity, layout, packaging and overall aesthetics.
EIA Reports for the following projects were given awards during the convention:
EIS for ECP category:
1. Ipilan Nickel Project. The award was received by the Chief Operating Officer of Ipilan Nickel Corporation, Mr. Pierre Charlent together with the EIA Preparer Country Manager of GHD Pty. Ltd., Ms. Anne Lavers 2. Therma South Energy Project. The award was received by the Chief Operating Officer of Therma South Inc., Mr. Benjie Cariaso, Jr. together with the EIA Preparer Managing Director of Apercu Consultants Inc.,Ms. Lilibeth Yazon 3. Viba Aggregates Projects. The award was received by the EIA Preparer, President of BMP Environment and Community Care Inc., Dr. Rolando Cuano
EIS for Non ECP category:
1. Rizal Provincial Sanitary Landfill Project. The award was received by the EIA Preparer, represented by its President, Environmental Concepts Corporation, Mr. Delfin San Pedro 2. Robinsons Place Calasiao. The award was received by the Regional Operations Manager, Robinsons Land Corporation, Ms. Cathy Alejandro and the Head, Environmental Compliance of Robinsons Land, Ms. Cleofas Maceda together with the EIA Preparer represented by Ms. Carol Varias of Homeland Builders 3. Sweet Pineapple Production. The award was received by the Manager, Administrative Services Makati Office, SUMIFRU Philippines Corporation, Ms. Tina Cruz.
Compliance Monitoring Reports (CMRs):
1. Manila Third Sewerage Project. The award was received by the Environmental Manager, Manila Water Company Incorporated, Mr. Mark Tom Mulingbayan and Group Director Operations, MWCI, Mr. Ding Carpio 2. Santa Rita 1000MW Combined Cycle Power Station. The award was received by Mr. Chito Panzo and Ms. Melchy Enriquez of First Gas Power Corporation 3. 210MW Mindanao Coal Fired Power Plant. The award was received by Mr. Jerome Soldevilla and Mr. Francis Libao of Steag State Power Inc.
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Compliance Monitoring and Validation Reports (CMVRs):
1. Santa Rita 1000MW Combined Cycle Power Station and San Lorenzo 500MW Combined Cycle Power Station. The award was received by MMT members of First Gas Power Corporation headed by EMB Region 4A Regional Director Carlos Magno 2. 210MW Mindanao Coal Fired Power Plant Power Generation. The award was received by MMT members of Steag State Power Inc. headed by EMB Region 10 Director Sabdullah Abubacar 3. 1200MW Natural Gas Power Plant Project. The award was received by EMB Region 4A Director Carlos Magno assisted by Mr. Hwa Yeon Hwang of Kepco Ilijan Power Corporation
SYNTHESIS AND NEXT STEPS
SYNTHESIS BY: ENGR. PURA VITA G. PEDROSA, CHIEF, SYSTEMS PLANNING & MANAGEMENT SECTION, EIAMD, EMB-DENR
The presentation of the synthesis included the following:
How the convention was conceptualized, planned and implemented through the ideas from various volunteer EIA Practitioners and inspiration from Dr. Peter King whom she met in an international EIA Forum in Bangkok in 2012. Recognition of the representation of the entire country in the Convention with NCR and Regions IV having the most number of participants. Regions VIII, XI and XIII are the most well represented for those coming far from the venue. A summary of the “take away” items for each technical session
A slideshow presentation on the three-day photo-documentation was played at the last part of the synthesis.
CLOSING PROGRAM
CLOSING REMARKS BY: ATTY. MICHAEL DRAKE P. MATIAS, OIC- CHIEF, EIAMD, EMB-DENR
Atty. Michael Drake Matias thanked the speakers, EIA practitioners, MMT members, EMB Regional Directors, guests, participants to the Convention. He hoped that everyone has had a fruitful exchange of views for the past three- days that he said will help, in one way or another, to promote the common objective of having sustainable
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development, which, according to the Brundtland Report, would have the following characteristics: 1. Maintain the overall quality of life. 2. Maintain continuing access to natural resources. 3. Avoid lasting environmental damage.
He said that this objective is the bedrock, not only of the EIA law, but also of other equally significant environmental laws that are being implemented by DENR. The speakers educated the participants on how to further improve the system, particularly on some areas such as: 1. Focusing on system as a useful planning tool, rather than mere compliance to secure an Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC); 2. Providing for a policy that clearly defines the extent of public participation required in coming up with an exhaustive and open review of ECC application which is consistent with the public’s right to information as guaranteed in our constitution; 3. Making the Multi-partite Monitoring Teams (MMTs) an effective tool in assisting EMB in ensuring companies’ continuous compliance by defining its functions and limitations in relation to the mandates and jurisdictions of our EMB Regional Offices.
He further said that in the Philippines, businesses and industries are partners in achieving economic growth. He expressed hope that this also holds true for other governments of the world. As such, he enjoined the continued working together towards improving the EIA system with the goal of achieving sustainable development, because of the solemn responsibility to protect and improve the environment for present and future generations.
CLOSING REMARKS BY: ENGR. FLORANTE PANGANIBAN, PRESIDENT, PCAPI REGION 4A CHAPTER
Engr. Florante Panganiban expressed that PCAPI-Region 4A Chapter always lives up with a vision to be a reliable organization of pollution control officers and a responsible partner of DENR, LGUs and other local and international institutions in helping the various industry sectors attain full compliance to environmental regulations, and in attaining balance between development and environment. Looking back, he hoped that, for the last three days, the objectives of the Convention were attained, such as: 1. Promote common understanding and appreciation of the Philippine EIS System among its various stakeholders. 2. Identify challenges and gaps in the implementation of the Philippine EIS System, building on lessons learned and practical experiences of key stakeholders and sectors.
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In closing, he said that indeed, the organizers and participants have written history by holding this very first national convention on Philippine EIS System. He added, however, that this is not the end of it. Instead, this is just the beginning of a more challenging journey to improve the Philippines EIS system in attaining balance between socio-economic growth and environmental protection of our country.
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ANNEXES
ANNEX I – LIST OF COMMITTEE MEMBERS, CONVENTION PARTNERS, MAJOR SPONSORS, SPONSORS, EMB AND PICAPI IV-A SECRETARIAT
Committee Members Sponsors
Ms. Jo Rowena Garcia Taganito Mining Corporation
Dr. Jacob Tio Coral Bay Nickel Corporation
Mr. Vanderleaf Capalungan APERCU Consultants, Incorporated
Ms. Elvira Balinang Geosphere Technologies, Incorporated
Mr. Angelito David GHD Pty. Ltd.
Mr. Jorge Delas Alas GAIA South, Incorporated
Engr. Rene Morente Lafarge Cement Services (Phils.), Inc.
Engr. Joel Espinelli AXCELTECHS, Incorporated
Mr. Teddy Guerrero Manila Water Company, Inc.
Mr. Jess Bayrante Far Southeast Gold Resources, Incorporated (FSGRI) ConventionMr. Florante Partners Panganiban Mapua Institute of Technology (MIT)
ABOITIZ Power Corp. Silangan Mindanao Mining Company, Incorporated AECOM Philippines, Incorporated Oceana Gold Philippines, Incorporated (OGPI) Energy Development Corporation KEPCO Ilijan Corporation SM Prime Holdings, Incorporated OSTREA Mineral Laboratories, Incorporated
Major Sponsors Sagittarius Mines, Incorporated Asian Development Bank (ADB) Shell Companies in the Philippines First Gas Power Corporation
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EMB Secretariat PCAPI IVA Secretariat Atty. Michael Drake Matias Mr. Florante Panganiban Engr. Esperanza Sajul Mr. Jerome Lascano Engr. Pura Vita Pedrosa Mr. Henry Malibiran Ms. Michico Venus Navaluna Ms. Socorro Patindol Engr. Marivic Yao Ms. Miah Malixi For. Verna Vidal Mr. Ismael Dayanghirang Engr. Regina Paula Eugenio Mr. Melino Navalta Engr. Joel Polintan Mr. Raymond Reyes Engr. Jose Paolo Aragoncillo Mr. Ramon Reyes de Roma Engr. Mary Therese Gonzales Mr. Eladio Ebreo Mr. Carl Louie Santiago Ms. Anabela Pineda Mr. Vermon Timbas Mr. Arnold Fonollera Ms. Sonia Alcon Mr. Francisco Vivas Ms. Leonora Leones Mr. Camilo Tolentino Ms. May Guillermo Mr. Dan Reyes Ms. Lanie Dizon Mr. Fred Dumpit Ms. Joena Pagulayan Mr. Teodoro Guerrero Mr. Gemini Candelario Mr. Angelito David Mr. Jess Tañola Ms. Joana Alba Mr. Noel Tolentino Ms. Luzviminda Veril Ms. Beth Robles Ms. Bernadette Ronquillo Ms. Adelina Gutierrez Mr. Ronel Reyes Mr. Dan Reyes Ms. Joann Roxas-Glorioso Ms. Marianne Pan-Saniano Ms. Hera Patindol-Lopez
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ANNEX II - LIST OF PARTICIPANTS
A ASIS, JULES JASON C. ABAD, EMIE T. ATOMPAG, MELANIO B. ABAŃO, GERALDINE UY AVORQUE, BENEDICTO P. ABDON, FLORENCIO AWITAN, LUIS A. ABELA, BRICCIO T. ABELLA, JOSEPH ANDERS JR. B ABIERTAS, PONCIANO A. BACUÑO, DONNA P. ABRERA, MA. VICTORIA BAELLO, MARITES G. ABROGAR, RODERICK M. BALA, ERNESTO E. ABUBACAR, SABDULLAH C. BALAGTAS, LOU FRANCISCO A. ACDA, MANOLITO N. BALITE, REY GHALE D. ACOSTA, ENRICO G. BALLESTEROS, ALFREDO, JR. ACOSTA, MARITES A. BALUGO, JEFFREY T. ADDAWE, JESS M. BANAAG, MANUEL A. ADDAWE, CATHERINE L. BANDALA, JAMESON O. AGBAY, ZALDY V. BANJIALAN, RUFINO C. AGUINALDO, EMELITA T. BARBER, MARIA HAEZEL M. ALABASTRO, EDGARDO G. BARIBAR, MARIA MAY ANNE O. ALAREZ, ALNULFO M. BAROL, BIETO M. ALCALA, GLENN B. BARRA, REYNALDO B. ALFARO, JOSE JR C. BARTOLOME, KATHERINE ANNE S. ALMOCERA, SIELA T. BASCON, JENNIFER V. ALONZO, MARILYN M. BASCOS, JOSE ELMER C. ALTAREJOS, EMMANUEL BASUG, ELENIDA AMBROCIO, RONALD A. BAUTISTA, RENA ANGELA S. ANA, MYLENE P. BAYAN, EDNA C. ANDRES-PO, ANDREA VALENTINE BAYSA, JOEY ALVIC M. ANG, LORENZ BELOCURA, JOSEFINO JR. ANGELES, ANTHONY P. BERANGO, RIA ANGELES, LUCILLE B. BERBANO, MARIO C. ANINGYAO, MICHAEL L. BERBANO, LESLIE L. ANTONIO, ROY D. BERBANO, LESSANDRA L. ANZIA, ISABEL B. BLASTIQUE, TERESITA T. ANZURES, RAQUEL C. BONDAD, ANGELINE C. APUADA, NILO A. BORCI, CHRISTOPHER Y. AQUENDE, JAMES M. BRABANTE, ANGELITA T. AQUINO, WINIFRED M. BUBAN, ALBERTO C. ARADO, MANUEL R. BUDAC, JESSIE C. ARAÑES, JR., FRANCISCO J. BUENAVENTURA, KRISHNA V. ARANA, GRACIELA E. BUENO, MARYANN ARANAS, GELIAN P. BUKAS, ARAVILLA G. ARCAMO, GABCER V. BULACAN, MARIO N. ARELLANO, FRANCISCO A. BULOS, JONATHAN AREOLA, CYNTHIA C. BUNIEL, JENGKE S. ARGUELLES, MA. MARGARITA A. BUÑAO, RAUL R. ASANZA, JAIME R. BUOT, GLYNIS IRENE S. ASILOM, NEONE P. BUTIC, NELY
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ANNEX II - LIST OF PARTICIPANTS
CUAÑO, ROLANDO V. C CUAÑO, MARITA G. CAASI, HAZEL E. CUBERO, RUEL B. CABANAYAN, OSCAR CUÑADO, WILLIAM CABANCE, MELVIN E. CABAYA, JOE MAR R. D CABONEGRO, WILFREDO R. DACANAY, LEO S. CABRERA, EDITHA DACO, GLENDA A. CABRERA, MA. SHELLA S. DALISAY, SOLEDAD NATALIA CAGUIMBAL, RORY S. DALIUAG, ALEXANDER S. CAGUIOA, NONITA S. DALIUAG, PATROCINA P. CALDEO, RICARDO A. DANGANAN, SAMUEL C. CALIPES, DANICA MARI D. DAÑO, VERNA LUZ CALO, FRANKLIN G. DARROLES, EMERSON B. CALUMPANG, RAUL B. DE CHAVEZ, EDWIN S. CALVO, JOSEPH BUSTAMANTE DE GUZMAN, JULIE ROSE G. CAMPOS, LEO B. DE JESUS, JOEL CANAPI, GEORGE DE JESUS, JOHN PHILIP S. CAÑADA, ABIGAIL Z. DE LEOZ, FRANCIS CANON, MA. LOURDES C. DE LOS SANTOS, CONDESA VICTORIA D. CANONOY, ALEX DE TORRES, ERICK P. CARAMOAN, RIA MARCIANO DE VILLA, TEODORA G. CARCER, FE M. DE VILLA, AGERICO CARIÑO, JULIUS MARIANO DEBUQUE, REX Q. CARMONA, DOROTHEA P. DEJOLDE, PETER B. CASTAÑEDA, PROCULO C. DEL ROSARIO, ERIC R. CASTIL, PROCESO M. DELA CRUZ, ESLI I. CAUSING, ELMER R. DELA CRUZ, LEDICIA CELEMEN, SEGUNDINA I. DELA FUENTE, LUZVIMINDA P. CELESTIAL, DENNIS O. DEL NERO, BETHELA C. CELZO, MARILOU C. DENAYA, GAY CEMBRANO, VILMA S. DEOCADIZ, ELLA CERUJANO, MARIA LUISA DERIADA, MARTIN DOMINIC B. CHAN, ARMANDO ADONIS G. DERON, RYSA D. CHAVEZ, NOEL T. DERPO, ANNA LYNN D. CHU, SANDRA DIGAMO, REYNALDO S. CHUA, ERNEST KARL L. DELIGENCIA, LOU JASON P. CLAUDIO, LORMELYN E. DINEROS, REOLITA L. COLADILLA, CLAIRE T. DOBLUIS, PANFILO O. COLLANTES, EDILBERTO R. DOCTO, RAMON M. COMIDOY, JOEL DONAAL, NESTOR CONCEPCION, EDWIN C. DOREGO, NOEL A. CORNELLA, LUDIVINA M. DOYSABAS, JAMAICA LAE T. CORTES, JOSELITO Y. DULAY, MAGDALENA D. CRISOLOGO, PACIFICO C. DURAN, NEIL JAMES E. CRISOSTOMO, ALFREDO P. DUYA, CHERYL D. CRISOSTOMO, CONSOLACION CRUZ, ALMA J. E CRUZ, KATHLEEN ANNE A. ECHAVEZ, JULIA W. CRUZ, RENATO T. ECRAELA, ROMEO B. CRUZ, SUSAN S. ELEGADO, JONALYN C.
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ANNEX II - LIST OF PARTICIPANTS
EMPIZO, MARIVIC S. GONZALES, REYNALDO ENAD, DYNA C. GONZALES, ARLYN A. ENCARNACION, MARIAN JOY B. GOOCO, PAULO M. ENGRACIAL, MARIE LOUISE E. GOZE, AGNES L. ENRIQUEZ, MELCHY C. GRAELLOS, JOSE D. ENSOMO, JR., ALILO C. GUAMOS, DARLITO ERASGA, ARIEL L. GUERZON, EMELITA T. ESMAS, MARIVIC P. GUIMALAN, JUNESSA DV ESPIRITU, EMELYN GUNTINAS, HENRY P. ESTEBAN, NICANOR GUNTINAS, JOSEPH ARNEL B. EUGENIO, JOY R. GUTIERREZ, SHERYL JOY ANN S. EVANGELISTA, SHIELA R. EXCLAMADO, CHARESMA H HAGADA, MARIA AMBER V. F HALILI, JENIFER M. FABRONERO, VIRGILIO HANDUGAN, JOEL P. FELIZARTA, JOSEPH DOMINIC S. HARTLEY, MICHAEL FERNANDEZ, LILIAN G. HERBITO, AURORA S. FERNANDO, MATILDE J. HERNANDEZ, AUDREY JILL A. FESTIJO, EDGAR G. HILARIO, EMELITA C. FIANZA, DEMETRIO G. HIPE, MA. DORICA NAZ FLORES, ENGELLAU DUPONT F. HONRADO, MARIA PERPETUA T. FLORES, ERNESTO HUFANCIA, DULCE FORNIS, BONIFACIO Z. FORTUITO, JUBIE FRANZ M. I FRANCISCO, VICTOR A. ICBAN, LOURDES M. FREDO, JEFFREY D. IGLESIAS, LEA E. FRONDA, MELROSE E. ILDEFONSO, ELIGIO T. FUENTES, RODOLFO I R. IMPORTANTE, RICHARD C. ISIDRO, FELIX I. G ISIP, MARCIA G. ISIP, AMANDO C. GABRIEL, GABRIEL Y. GALANG, GREG F. J GALERIO, LEONILA P. JAGO-ON, KAREN ANN B. GALINDO, LILIAN I. JAMERO, RAIAN E. GAMALLO, RUSS MARK T. JAVIER, JESS GAMPONIA, CRISANTO D. JAVIER, MARICEL G. GAMUEDA, ROLANDO M. JAVIER, RAMON E. GARCIA, ANABEL H. JIMENEZ, ALBERTO JR. GARCIA, FRANCISCO VICENTE V. JOLONGBAYAN, OLIVIA U. GARCIA, GUALTER M. JUCUTAN, CELSO H. GARCIA, JUNEL C. GARCIA, LUISA M. K GARCIA, RICHARD S. KEMPIS, EMILIANO P. JR. GAVILE, KATHERINE H. GAYASCO, CHARLIE C. L GIRON, VIRGINIA D. LADIA, RONEL M.I. GOLLE, CHINKIE P. LAGANTE, ADELAIDA R. GOLVEQUE, PRINCESS KAREN G. LAGUNZAD, MA. GLENDA C. GOMEZ, ROMEO A. JR PhD LAID, JUAN C.
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ANNEX II - LIST OF PARTICIPANTS
LALUAN, ISIDRA G. MARUZZO, JENALYN S. LAO, ABBAS MEDICO, APRIL JOY R. LAUS, MARIA ELIZABETH S. MENDOZA, NELLY I. LAYUG, CARLOS C. MENDOZA, ENRILE II A. LAYUGAN, OFELIA MENGUITO, BABYLYN D. LAZARO, SOLEDAD R. MERCADO, EMILIANO I. LEDESMA, CESAR C. MERCADO, JUNISSE LEDESMA, CHARISSE S. MEREZ, GIBBRYLYN T. LIM, ALEXANDER V. METIN, ROBERT ANGELO M. LIM, MUNDITA MINGAO, MARIO, JR A. LIM, ELADIO III L. MONSANTO, ELSIE B. LIMPIO, ADJIANEIB A. MOOG, ALFA O. LIN, ZHI MORADA, DARWYN H. LITAN, DENNIS H. MORENO, MARIA LOURDES Q. LITON, LIEZYL S MULINGBAYAN, MARK TOM Q. LIWAG, CARMELITA MUNCAL, JOSEPHINE E. LIWANAG, RYAN G. MUNSAYAC, MARIBEL LLEVA, EMMANUEL M. MUSA, MARILYNN P. LOMBOY, HAZEL S. LOPEZ, EDSON C. LOPEZ, CRISFE Z. N LOSORATA, GARRY S. NAGALES, JOCELYN D. LOZADA, GILBERT G. NAGALES, MERVIN D. LUIS, ALEX C. NAMOCATCAT, JAIME A. NAPALAN, ARCELI T. M NAPALAN, MJA DEANE MACALALAD, ABIGAIL S. NARCIZA, BERNARDINO O. MACALDO, MARIJO D. NAVALUNA, EDWIN ROMEL MACASA, JONATHAN NAVARETTE, MERLY D. MACEDA, LETECIA R. NAZI, NARCISO I. MACEDA, MA. CLEOFAS O. NUNAG, CHARLIE M. MACEDA, MARIEL JOY R. MACEREN, JOCELYN H. O MAESTRECAMPO, DODJIE OCTA, EDGAR MAGLALANG, RAFFY OGASAWARA, KOYO MAGNO, CARLOS J. OLARTE, LURYLEE B. MALABUNGA, MELISSA OLAVIDES, ESTER A. MALAPITAN, JENNIELYN L. OPADA, ELVIRA M. MALIGALIG, SUSANA M. ORCILLA, ROLANDO R. MALLARI, EVE M. ORDOÑO, AGNES C. MALLONGA, RODRIGO B. ORILLOSA, ISABELLE B. MANALO, RICO C. OSORIO, VIZMINDA A. MANGAKO, NOMER O. OSTREA, NOEL R. MANGULABNAN, CZARINA MAY S. OUANO, EDMOND DANTES G. MANGUNDAYAO, PEPITO L. MANTO, ARTURO T. P MARCOS, JOHN MARK A. PADRINAO, LALINKA YANA M. MARIANO, ROSE ANN G. PADULLO, MARCELINA P. MARTINEZ, JOHN EMMANUEL B. PAEZ, MARY JEAN R. MARTINEZ, EMILLE F. PAGALILAUAN, DAVID MARTINEZ, CARMELITA P. PAJARITO, MARIA ERLINDA P.
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ANNEX II - LIST OF PARTICIPANTS
PAJE, MARIANNE J. REOLA, GILDA PALARUAN, RENELL V. REQUINALA, RAINIER ALLAN PAÑA, MARIE ANTONETTE S. REYES, RAINIER D. PANGAN, CATHERINE Q. REYES, JOEL B. PANGANIBAN, GHELEN M. REYES, JR., GERARDO C. PANGANIBAN, LEONOR G. REYES, ALBERT C. PANZO, IGNACITO P. REYES, ROLANDO C. PARANADA, NOEMI A. REYES, ROMMEL M. PARCON, AGUSTIN S. RICARDO, LONE S. PASCUAL, TERESITA V. RIOFLORIDO, BUENA FE A. PASCUAL, REGINA VICTORIA J. RIOS, ANITA F. PASTRANA, QUINTIN JOSE V. RIVAS, REYNALDO B. PATTAGUAN, VICTORIA B. RIVERA, BENIGNO R. PE BENITO, RAYMUNDO R. RIVERA, JR., MARCELINO PELLEJERA, CYPRIAN A. ROBLES, BREFELIN J. PENA, CARLITO B. RODRIGUEZ, DANILO V. PEÑARANDA, JANE C. ROLLON, RENE PEPITO, RUFINO M. ROMARATE II, RODOLFO A. PERALTA, LEONARDO G. ROMERO, ELOISA A. PERALTA, GENANDRIALINE L. RONTOS, MARIA CATHERINE PEREDA, EMMA CLAIRE P. ROSALES, VICENTE JR C. PEREZ, OLIVIA P. ROSARIO, ANNALYN C. PEREZ, CALVIN V. ROSETE, JEAN N. PEREZ, ROMISETH M. ROSILLAS, MARIA JOCELYN R. PERILLO, ELEONOR P. RUZ, GRACIANO A. PERODA, JESSIE M. PIALA, FELIX L. S PINTOR, MARIA TERESITA T. SABANDO, LEONITA P. POLESTICO, BEDEREJUN M. SACEDA, MANUEL J. PRINCIPE, JUN SACLAG, MARK R. SAGUID, RODOLFO B. SALAC, LAUDEMIR S. Q SALAYON, ANITA C. QUETULIO, DILBERT N. SALCEDO, EDMUND T. QUILING, PERLITA I. SALUBRE, LEO M. QUINALAYO, MA. CRISTINA SALVADOR, JOEL QUIÑONES, ARTHUR I. SALVADOR, TEODORA H. QUINTO, WILLIAM SANTELLA, TEOFILA T. SAN PEDRO, DELFIN C. R SANTIAGO, CHERRYLANE E. RAMBOANGA, JOSE G. SARI, CARISA B. RAMIREZ, EDWIN D. SARONA, ANTONINO D. RAMOS, WNNIE S. SARTHOU, ALBEUS G. RANA, FERDINAND G. SEBARILLO, GIRLIESINA E. RANAS, GAUDENCIO R. SEBASTIAN, MARK ANTHONY UY RAVELO, MERLE M. SEBUA, JOSE C. REBAY, NILO R. SEGUI, CARMELO R. REGALADO, JOCELYN DC SERVIDAD, VICENTE L. SHEEN, ROBERTO D. REGALADO, ALMA BERNADETTE L. SIADOR, CESAR S. JR. REGUNAY, JOSE M. SIASOCO, JAY RICHARD REHAL, ELIZA P. SIBILSKI, ULRICH RELATIVO, LAURO C. SILVA, RONEIL C.
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ANNEX II - LIST OF PARTICIPANTS
SIMPAL, FARRIDA S. VILLANUEVA, ANTONIO G. SINAY, RAYMOND R. VILLAVICENCIO, MELGAR S. SIOSON, LOUIE JUNE D. VILLEGAS, JASON JUDE SOLATORIO, AARON VILLEGAS, LEONARDO SORIANO, BETHANY A. VILORIA, BENHUR R. SOSA, ROY Dy VINARAO, VANESSA CLAIRE B. SUAN, EDUARDO E. VIÑAS, MARIO E. SUAREZ, MARIA NICCA S. VINLUAN, CONRADA C. SUELTO, ANACLETO JR. VOSOTROS, VICENTE B. SUGIMOTO, RYUZO SULAPAS, ERNESTO P. Y SUMABAT, HELIODORO YAZON, LILLI BETH S. SYBOCO, EDUARDO, JR YEPES, ROY D. YUBAL, LEDANE JOY M. T YUSON, RICHELLIE MAE H. TABASA, CEZAR G. TALAMAYAN, VILMA F. Z TALICURAN, GRACHELLE Z. ZABALA, REYNALDO TAÑARES, HAZEL P. ZAMORA, JEFFERSON TANCINCO, FEDERICO B. TANSINGCO, BENJAMIN A. TAUTHO, DIEGO B. TEJADA, REYNALDO S. TENEFRANCIA, JONAS G. TENORIO, BLESILDA F. TERCERO, MARIO U. TINOY, PAULINO B. TOBIAS, PAQUITO V. TOBIAS, WILLY V. TOJOS, DENNIS TOLENTINO, ASTERIO C. JR. TORRES, REBECCA F. TORRES, JEFFREY R. TRAJICO, WILSON TRIA, ANTONIO S. TUMBAGAHAN, ENRICA I. TURBELLA, METODIO U.
U UGDORACION, FERNANDO C. UY, RICHARD BRYAN C. UY, MELCHOR Q.
V VARIAS, CAROLYN M. VASQUEZ, RACHEL A. VELASQUEZ, ELSA A. VELEZ, YOLANDA C. VENTURA, JEA MILEN T. VERGARA, EDWARD C. VEYRA, GRACIANO A. VILLAFLOR, FREDERICK JOHN A. VILLALON, MARCOS B.
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