Cotabato, Philippines – In a significant contribution to peace and environmental sustainability, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) 12-PENRO Cotabato successfully spearheaded the distribution of 6,000 indigenous tree seedlings from the Modern Mechanized Forest Nursery (MMFN) to decommissioned combatants of Camp Omar and Camp Badre in Maguindanao del Sur. This event was part of the 3rd Leg of the Inter-Cabinet Cluster Mechanism on Normalization (ICCMN) simultaneous Caravan, held on August 29, 2024, at Datu Hoffer and Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Sur.

The ICCMN Caravan, an initiative under the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU), aims to provide essential services to communities and former Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) combatants, supporting their transition to civilian life. The DENR, as a key member agency, played a pivotal role in this initiative by providing tree seedlings that will not only aid in reforestation efforts but also contribute to the long-term sustainability of the communities involved. The seedlings distributed during the caravan are expected to thrive in the local environment, contributing to the reforestation of the area and providing long-term ecological and economic benefits to the community. The DENR 12-PENRO Cotabato continues to stand by its commitment to support initiatives that foster peace, development, and environmental protection.