As Earth’s largest marine conservation nonprofit, Oceana commends the trail-blazing achievements of outgoing DENR Secretary Gina Lopez in bravely pushing for policies to sustainably protect the country’s environmentally-critical areas including protected seascapes and save them from destructive activities that threaten their ecological integrity.
Secretary Lopez has set the highest standards for environmental stewardship and mainstreamed partnerships with civil society organizations – a feat that merits replication by her successor.
Her commitment and sterling leadership in ensuring justice and equity especially to affected communities most dependent on a vibrant web of life is her most precious legacy for all of us. Oceana is most grateful.