KIDAPAWAN CITY – Rooting for each other in determining the extent of the transitioning of the 2050 hectares covered the subject NGP established from 2012-2018 and in light of the agreed points by the principals, a key officials from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Region 12 and the Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources, and Energy (MENRE) of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) have once again assembled on February 26,2025 held at PENRO Cotabato.

The meeting focused on addressing critical issues surrounding the transfer of management of NGP sites spanning 23 barangays across four municipalities in Cotabato Province, now part of BARMM’s Special Geographic Area (SGA), in accordance with Republic Act No. 11054 or the Bangsamoro Organic Law.

A key outcome of the discussion was the drafting of the Terms of Reference (TOR), which outlines the framework and procedures for ground verification activities, including site visits and assessments. The creation of a joint verification team was also agreed upon to ensure a smooth transition of responsibilities from DENR 12 to MENRE-BARMM.

The meeting was attended by key officials from MENRE-BARMM, led by Director II Jalil S. Umngan, Legal Officer Atty. Noronissa A. Aliudin, Forester Datumama K. Makartur of CENRO 2A Maguindanao, and Forester Faisal U. Akmad of CENRO 1A Maguindanao. Representing DENR 12 were PENR Officer Radzak B. Sinarimbo, CENR Officer Shirley P. Uy, and Atty. Salymah Kusingan, who represented ARD for Technical Services Engr. Mama Samaon, along with division and section chiefs from PENRO Cotabato and other officials from both agencies.