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Natural resources

Prime Infrastructure Capital Inc. Commits to Protect Biodiversity and Coastal Resources of Verde Island Passage

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

Prime Infrastructure Capital Inc. has taken a significant step towards environmental conservation by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the Department of Energy (DOE). The MOU aims to protect and enhance the biodiversity and coastal resources of the Verde Island Passage (VIP), a national asset considered the 'center of the center' of marine shore fish biodiversity in the world. The commitment is part of Prime Infra's 'ridge-to-reef' approach to marine and terrestrial conservation, which involves leveraging existing biodiversity research and development programs, as well as employing innovative technology and science-based methods.

Key Takeaways:

  • Prime Infrastructure Capital Inc. has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the Department of Energy (DOE) to protect and enhance the biodiversity and coastal resources of the Verde Island Passage (VIP).
  • The MOU recognizes Prime Infra's commitment to the 'ridge-to-reef' approach to marine and terrestrial conservation, leveraging existing biodiversity research and development programs and employing innovative technology and science-based methods.
  • The VIP is prioritized for protection and conservation by virtue of Executive Order 578, and the strait is subject to the conduct of the 'Protected Areas Suitability Assessment' by the Biodiversity Management Bureau.
  • The DENR Secretary Raphael Perpetuo M. Lotilla highlighted that environmental stewardship and economic development must go together, and protecting the VIP is a responsibility shared not just nationally, but globally.
  • Prime Infra recently signed a Memorandum of Agreement and Deed of Donation with the DENR, committing P6.225 million in support of the agency's watershed instrumentation program.
  • The 'ridge-to-reef' approach involves a partnership with the Brotherhood of St. Francis and the Luisita Watersheds program to have 100% reforestation in the Marikina River Watershed and rehabilitation of the Amangsaki Watershed.
  • Prime Infra's commitment to the VIP is also reflected in its existing partnership with the Provincial Government of Batangas, managing the Brgy. Bagalangit watershed to maintain water quality.

Statistics:

  • P6.225 million: The amount committed by Prime Infra in support of the DENR's watershed instrumentation program.
  • 100%: The target reforestation rate for the Marikina River Watershed and rehabilitation of the Amangsaki Watersheds under the 'ridge-to-reef' approach.

Sources:

  • Prime Infra: Memorandum of Understanding signed with DENR and DOE to protect Verde Island Passage biodiversity.
  • Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR): Executive Order 578, Republic Act (RA) 7586, and RA 11038.
  • DENR Secretary Raphael Perpetuo M. Lotilla: Quote on environmental stewardship and economic development.
  • Energy Secretary Sharon S. Garin: Statement on DOE's support for initiatives that align with energy development with environmental protection.

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