DENR-8 marks World Wetlands Day in EV

TACLOBAN CITY, Philippines —The Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Region 8 on Friday led in the observance of the World Wetlands Day in Eastern Visayas, as it joined global efforts to raise awareness on the value of wetlands for the community and the environment.

DENR-8 Regional Director Crizaldy Barcelo said the annual observance of World Wetlands Day marks the adoption of the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands of International Importance, which was launched in Ramsar City in Iran.

This also coincides with the celebration of the National Wetlands Day, as mandated by Proclamation No. 74 dated February 2, 1999, he said.

Barcelo said this year's celebration carries the theme, “Wetlands for a Sustainable Urban Future,” which focuses on disseminating the importance of wetlands in making cities livable and integrating wetlands into the city's sustainable planning and development.

Wetlands "reduce flooding, replenish drinking water, filter waste, provide urban green spaces, and provide sources of livelihood," he said.

Barcelo said the public must support government efforts for the conservation and proper use of wetlands, such as lakes, swamps, damps, marshes, mudflats, mangroves, coral reefs or land areas saturated with water either permanently or seasonally.