DENR's Mobile Permitting Initiative Serves 670 Clients in Tagbilaran City, Bohol
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) successfully served 670 clients in Tagbilaran City, Bohol during the recent rollout of its innovative mobile permitting program. This initiative, designed to bring essential environmental services directly to communities, marks a significant step toward more accessible governance.
Nationwide Launch of Permitting on Wheels
The DENR Express: Permitting on Wheels (POW) was held at Island City Mall on April 14–15, 2026, as part of a comprehensive nationwide launch spanning 17 regions. This program aims to provide easier access to environmental permitting services, eliminating the need for lengthy travel to regional offices.
Among the beneficiaries was Edwin Sardido from the Pilar Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office, who processed an environmental compliance certificate for his local government unit's integrated potable water system. "Thank you for this easy access from DENR. Our purpose was to go to EMB Region 7. It is good that they are here, so we took advantage of the opportunity to help our LGU save on travel expenses," Sardido expressed gratefully.
Streamlined Processes and Real-Time Assistance
DENR 7 Executive Director Laudemir Salac emphasized that the program represents a transformative shift toward more responsive governance. "With Permitting on Wheels, the DENR no longer waits for the people to come to us, we go to them. We bring with us not just services but solutions to your concerns and problems," Salac stated. The initiative features real-time validation and on-site assistance, significantly reducing processing time and associated costs.
Environmental Management Bureau 7 Director John Edward Ang highlighted how the program simplifies complex permitting procedures, addressing long-standing challenges faced by stakeholders, particularly small and medium enterprises. "Allow us to demonstrate our ability to provide technical assistance. We hope that through this, we can give a significant change to our stakeholders," Ang remarked.
Local Government Support and Expanded Services
Bohol Governor Erico Aristotle Aumentado warmly welcomed the initiative, noting its substantial benefits for local entrepreneurs and investors while reinforcing the province's commitment to environmental protection. "The services provided by DENR-EMB are of great help to the Boholanos. We support the DENR-EMB's goal of speeding up and simplifying applications for environmental permits for our people," Aumentado affirmed.
Tagbilaran City Mayor Jane Yap pointed out that the initiative aligns perfectly with the city's push for ease of doing business and environmental stewardship, supporting her administration's directive to digitalize government services.
The program offered expedited processing for various permits, including Environmental Compliance Certificates, permits to operate, and discharge permits. Additionally, it provided on-site technical assistance and consultations to minimize travel and delays.
Comprehensive Range of Environmental Services
Beyond permitting, the mobile initiative delivered a wide array of services such as:
- Free patent applications
- Land status verification
- Subdivision surveys
- Land title distribution
- Wildlife permits
- Chainsaw registration
- Foreshore lease applications
- Mines and Geosciences Bureau services including mineral permits and geohazard certifications
The activity also included educational orientations on critical environmental laws and policies, covering:
- Environmental Impact Statement System
- Clean Air Act
- Clean Water Act
- Hazardous waste management
- Solid waste management
- Pollution control
- Climate-resilient practices
These sessions aimed to improve public awareness and compliance with environmental regulations, fostering a culture of sustainability within the community.
