PAMPANGA- The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Region III and the ASEZ World Mission Society Church of God University Student Volunteer Group (ASEZ WAO) signed a one-year Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on August 5, 2026.
The agreement aims to strengthen collaboration on reforestation, biodiversity conservation, and pollution reduction initiatives across Central Luzon.
Both parties committed to implement joint projects that promote environmental protection and sustainable development in the region.
The agreement, signed by DENR Regional Executive Director Ralph Pablo and ASEZ WAO Branch Director Byunggwang Park, provides a framework for implementing joint environmental programs through volunteerism, environmental education, and community participation.
Under the agreement, the DENR will identify priority areas for ecosystem restoration and protection, provide technical guidance, and facilitate volunteer activities in accordance with existing environmental laws, policies, and programs.
ASEZ WAO, for its part, committed to mobilizing volunteers for agreed environmental activities, conduct awareness campaigns and environmental education seminars, and work with local communities and partner organizations to encourage greater public participation in environmental protection.
Pablo said the partnership recognizes the important role of volunteers and community organizations in complementing government efforts to conserve and protect the environment.
“This partnership strengthens our capacity to protect our natural resources while empowering communities to take meaningful action. By combining DENR’s technical guidance with ASEZ WAO’s volunteer network and outreach programs, we can accelerate reforestation, reduce pollution, and build resilience against climate impacts for present and future generations,” he added.
Following the signing ceremony, ASEZ WAO conducted an environmental seminar that focused on the Great Pacific Garbage Patch, one of the world’s largest accumulations of marine plastic waste.
The seminar discussed how plastic pollution reaches oceans through rivers and waterways, its effects on marine ecosystems and biodiversity, and practical actions that communities can undertake to reduce plastic waste at the source.
Participants also learned proper waste segregation and waste reduction practices, as well as the importance of volunteer-driven coastal and river cleanup activities in preventing marine pollution.
The partnership forms part of DENR’s continuing efforts to strengthen collaboration with civil society organizations and volunteer groups in advancing environmental protection, ecosystem restoration, and sustainable development across Central Luzon.
