PH-EITI briefs Environment Sec on transparency initiative

DENR Secretary Roy Cimatu

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is the primary agency responsible for the conservation, management, development, and proper use of the country’s environment and natural resources, including specifically mineral resources.

While the Finance Secretary chairs the PH-EITI MSG, the Environment Secretary plays an equally crucial role in implementing EITI as head of the principal regulator of mining and minerals development in the country.

Thus, on January 16, 2018, PH-EITI, through DOF Asst. Secretary Ma. Teresa Habitan and the Secretariat led by National Coordinator Atty. Karla Espinosa paid a courtesy visit to newly-appointed DENR Secretary Roy Cimatu to strengthen the Environment Department’s engagement in EITI.

Secretary Cimatu, a retired general, was the 30th Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. The Commission on Appointments confirmed his appointment on October 4, 2017, making him the 16th DENR Secretary.
​During the visit, the group briefed the Secretary on the purpose, objectives, operations, and accomplishments of PH-EITI. The meeting also became an opportunity to provide him with a copy of the Fourth Country Report, a resource that the Secretary received with much appreciation and enthusiasm.