The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), through the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) in Catanduanes, launched its two-day “permitting on wheels” initiative in Virac town on Monday.

In a phone interview, Shiela Conche, information officer at PENRO Catanduanes, said the initiative decentralizes frontline services and makes permitting processes more accessible, convenient, and efficient for communities.

“The activity will run until Tuesday here at Plaza Rizal in Virac. Various services from various DENR attached agencies are providing information, education and communication to raise awareness of the department’s programs,” she said.

Services offered by the Environmental Management Bureau include the issuance of Environmental Compliance Certificates (ECCs), Certificates of Non-Coverage (CNCs), and permits related to hazardous waste management and clean air.

For the Mines and Geosciences Bureau, services include the issuance of mineral processing permits, geohazard certificates, and industrial sand and gravel permits.

The DENR personnel, for their part, offer services such as land titling, issuing cutting and transport permits, wood recovery permits, chainsaw registration, lot status certifications, land classification, and wildlife registration certificates.

Conche accentuated that through the activity, clients no longer need to travel to the PENRO office.

“We are inviting everyone to avail themselves of the DENR’s permitting on wheels for your queries and concerns,” she added.

In a statement, PENRO chief Vivian Escoto said the activity reinforces the office’s dedication to making government services more accessible to the community while promoting environmental responsibility and sustainable growth. (PNA)