By Jhelyn G. Andal

 

            “PCSD is not meant to be the DENR of Palawan – neither is DENR to substitute for PCSD in Palawan simply because by clear legislative intendment, PCSD and DENR and all other member agencies are working partners to achieve Palawan’s sustainable development goals,” Vice-Gov. David Ponce de Leon said during the privilege hour of the 48th regular session of the Provincial Board July 8, Tuesday.

 

In his speech, the vice-governor questioned Executive Order (EO) 734 issued by Pres. Arroyo, transferring the Palawan Council for Sustainable Development (PCSD) from the Office of the President to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). Ponce de Leon, co-author of Republic Act 7611 or the Strategic Environmental Plan (SEP) for Palawan which created PCSD, emphasized that “PCSD was meant to work with DENR, not under the DENR.”

 

DENR is a member of the PCSD though the Council had already questioned the Department’s absences during regular meetings. According to Ponce de Leon, DENR was already reminded by Gov. Joel Reyes, PCSD chairman, to give importance to scheduled meetings of the Council.

 

“PCSD is being transferred to DENR whose repeated absence in council meetings may constitute neglect of duty,” Ponce de Leon added.

 

He also cited the vagueness of EO 734. The order did not specify what is involved in the transfer, which Ponce de Leon regarded as “where the danger lies.”

 

“With no restrictions to it, the DENR can promulgate rules to supervise and even control PCSD as one of its agencies. This may mean reviewing and reversing PCSD’s decisions,” he explained.

 

The Chainsaw Act, Caves Act, and Wildlife Protection Act, which PCSD enforces in the province as mandated by the Congress and the President herself, were cited by Ponce de Leon as proof of the Council’s efficiency.

 

“Do we need any stronger proof of PCSD’s capability and efficiency than this?” he asked.

 

“Perhaps PCSD’s failure, if at all, has been its refusal to surrender to the many ill-motivations against Palawan’s environment,” he added.

 

The vice-governor also emphasized the Congress’ decision that PCSD should be with the Office of the President and not in any other government agency.

 

Ponce de Leon also called for the Provincial Board to adopt a resolution to recall EO 734. According to him, the action is possible taking to account when an executive order was also issued declaring Palawan as part of Region VI.

 

EO 429 (May 2005) was recalled when the President issued Administrative Order 129 (August 2005) stating Palawan to be under Region IV-B again after Palaweños criticized the transfer, citing lack of consultation.