DENR launches Environmental Compliance Assistance Center for local government units

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) on Friday (Dec. 9) formally launched its Environmental Compliance Assistance Center (ECAC) to assist local government units (LGUs) on technical concerns and compliance to environmental laws.

DENR Secretary Ramon J. P. Paje said the establishment of the assistance center is the DENR’s response “to continually educate our local officials and employees on environmental management, including environmental laws.”

“LGUs are instruments of the national government in enforcing compliance with environmental laws and regulations, especially since some of these laws are devolved to them. The ECAC will therefore strengthen the LGU’s capacity in efficiently performing their duties and obligations as environmentally-regulated institutions, and being operators of regulated public facilities such as hospitals, schools, and markets,” he stated.

The environment chief added that the ECAC is a one-stop center “to guide LGUs in understanding and complying with the many complex environmental laws and standards we have in the country.” He also expected the ECAC to contribute in fast-tracking the implementation of laws such as the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act and the Clean Water Act, to name a few.

The launch at the Sulo Hotel in Quezon City with Paje visiting the website (www.emb.gov.ph/ecacenter) was witnessed by representatives from the Department of Interior and Local Government, the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and Metro Manila’s LGUs.

The LGU-dedicated ECAC website contains environmental laws, regulations and resolutions, as well as information on the different permits and clearances issued by the DENR. The website also features an “Ask the Expert” section monitored by dedicated technical personnel to respond to online queries.

The ECAC is located at the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) building within the D ENR compound in Quezon City, and manned by technical personnel to assist LGUs. It can also be reached at telephone number 920-2260 or through the email address eca.center@emb.gov.ph. PAO-DENR