by Maria Angelica Rillorta and Julius Solano
BAGUIO CITY—On November 16, 2024, Development Management Officer IV, Engr. Simeon M. Micklay, of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-CAR (DENR-CAR), presented an overview of his agency’s functions on Natural Resources Management relative to Rural and Urban Planning to the Graduate School students of MPA 205 under the tutelage of Dr. Ma. Remedios O. Laroco
Rural and Urban Development is a course offered by Baguio Central University (BCU) in the Master of Public Administration (MPA) program. With the objective of further enhancing the knowledge of students, it was agreed that resource speakers from outside the academe be invited hence the presence of Engr. Micklay who supplemented the students’ understanding and provided an informative discussion on natural resources management.
The lecture initially discussed DENR’s vital role in managing the country’s natural resources, delving further into the different mandates of its line bureaus relative to rural and urban planning.
A key point that was discussed was the introduction of the ‘333 Principle,’ which Engineer Micklay explained that humans can survive three weeks without food, three days without water, and only three minutes without air, underscoring the critical importance of environmental preservation and responsible resource management.
He also shared an impactful statement: “The work can support everyone’s needs, but not anyone’s greed.” This concept stresses that natural resources should be used to satisfy the current generation’s needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs. It calls for balancing urban and rural planning, ensuring development supports economic growth and environmental sustainability. This shift from short-term gains to long-term solutions prioritizes the common good.
The lecture also covered different environmental laws in the Philippines such as the Mining Act, Clean Water Act, and Ecological Solid Waste Management Act. To give a clearer example, he shared how DENR enforces the Clean Water Act to protect
watersheds and water bodies from pollution. Along with that, rapid urbanization often leads to deforestation and improper waste disposal, prompting the need for regulations on waste management and land classification to protect the environment while allowing for development.
After Engr. Micklay’s in-depth lecture, the students had the opportunity to reflect on the information presented. ” I thought of the application of what I’ve learned on this activity to the Organization I am working for.” shared one student. This reflection shows how the lecture not only inspired individual students but also sparked an interest in applying the concepts learned to their professional roles.
The event successfully bridged the gap between academic theory and real-world challenges. “This event helped me understand how environmental policies and urban planning directly impact our communities, making our lessons much more relevant and meaningful,” remarked Crismerian Culop, MPA student. In addition, some challenges with the existing policies were also addressed. “Government should look into existing environmental policies as some of them need to be updated to prevent potential exploitation”, by Rhaymer Pangesfan, another student.
Furthermore, students look forward to participating in follow-up activities, such as fieldwork or trips to local projects and information campaigns focused on the environmental impact. Whereas others expressed interest in researching the effects of climate change and how environmental policies affect rural and urban development, particularly in terms of their potential to either hinder or foster growth.
As cities expand and rural areas develop, there also comes an increase in the demand for natural resources such as water, soil, plants, minerals, gas, coal, and others. Therefore, it is fundamental for everyone to understand and apply environmental conservation. The lecture doesn’t just aim to enrich students’ academic experience, but also motivate them to take action and integrate the lessons into their future careers and efforts in sustainable development.