by Leilanie Adriano/PNA
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has simplified the process of issuing environmental clearance certificate (ECC) which can now be accessible online or secured from the provincial environment offices.
After attending the Monday flag-raising ceremony at the Ilocos Norte Capitol, Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer Victor Dabalos told government workers the application for ECC by mining and quarry operators can now be done by just a few click of the mouse at the newly-created environment and management unit in the province.
“For those who are applying for ECC, there is no need to go to San Fernando City (DENR Regional Office) as you can now directly apply in our office,” said Dabalos, noting this is one of the innovations of DENR Secretary Roy Cimatu to expedite the issuance of ECC.
As part of the Duterte administration’s serious effort to promote ease of doing business in the country, Cimatu has removed the burden of project proponents whose applications for ECCs remained pending at the central and regional offices.
Quarry operators in the province like Arlene Domingsil, a resident of Laoag City, said this is a welcome development for them as they will no longer have to travel far to secure their ECC permits.
“This is good news for us. It saves us so much time and effort to do business,” she said.
