ILOILO CITY – Top environment officials have launched the Philippine Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (PBSAP) 2024-2040 to implement the country’s roadmap for biodiversity conservation and align it with global conservation targets.

“If we want to leave this planet in a better shape than when we found it, when we were born, then it is important for us to be guided by a common vision, said Assistant Director Mariglo Rosaida I. Laririt of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources’ Biodiversity Management Bureau.

“A common roadmap will allow us to achieve and accomplish something in the next 15 years,” she said.

Laririt and Raul L. Lorilla, executive director of the DENR’s office in Western Visayas, presented the PBSAP during its official launch as part of the 32nd Philippine Biodiversity Symposium, now on its last day at the Central Philippine University in Jaro District. Lorilla delivered the keynote message on Aug. 12 on behalf of Environment Secretary Raphael Lotilla.

The PBSAP is a comprehensive framework designed to guide the Philippines’ efforts in conserving its rich biological diversity. One key feature is the assessment of biodiversity status, which offers an overview of the current state of the nation’s biodiversity, highlighting trends, emerging threats, and ongoing challenges.

Anchored on the Philippine Development Plan, the PBSAP ensures that biodiversity conservation is integrated into the broader national development agenda. This alignment reflects the government’s commitment to making environmental sustainability a cornerstone of economic growth.

The plan lays out a robust foundation for policy and governance, detailing the policies, institutional frameworks, and financing mechanisms required to support the nationwide conservation effort.

To translate these commitments into action, the PBSAP identifies nine strategic priorities, including the protection of ecosystems, the promotion of sustainable resource use, and the enhancement of public awareness and engagement in biodiversity issues.

It recognizes the importance of stakeholder involvement, underscores the vital roles played by local government units, communities, and various sectors of society. Through inclusive and participatory approaches, it seeks to foster a shared responsibility in safeguarding the Philippines’ natural heritage.

The action plan emphasizes stronger partnerships with indigenous peoples and local communities, LGUs, the private sector, civil society, and the academe.

It addresses emerging issues like urban biodiversity and agrobiodiversity. It is aligned with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and aims to halt and reverse biodiversity loss and species extinction by 2040.

The launch included the PBSAP’s adoption through Department Administrative Order 2025-23, which amends the previous DAO 2016-12 establishing a mechanism for its implementation.

Regional cluster consultation workshops will be held to disseminate the documents, prepare the 7th National Report to the Convention on Biological Diversity, and review Republic Act No. 11038, or the Expanded National Integrated Protected Areas System (Enipas) Act of 2018.

The updated action plan was developed through nationwide stakeholder consultations and multisectoral dialogues led by the Biodiversity Management Bureau. It is aligned with the global Convention on Biological Diversity, and serves as the country’s principal instrument for implementing the convention at the national level.

It builds on previous efforts and integrates biodiversity conservation into the national development agenda, and includes measurable targets that align with the global Aichi Biodiversity Targets.

It is the first time for the Philippine Biodiversity Symposium to be held in Iloilo City, gathering scientists, conservationists, government agencies, academics, researchers, students, grassroots organizations, and other stakeholders to share research findings, exchange best practices, and strengthen collaboration in implementing the project.

The 32^nd edition was organized by the Biodiversity Conservation Society of the Philippines, and co-hosted by Central Philippine University and the Haribon Foundation.

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