DENR CALABARZON Leads the Way: First Region to Capacitate RTST for Project TRANSFORM Implementation

DENR CALABARZON made history as the first region to conduct a Facilitators’ Training to fully capacitate its Regional Technical Support Team (RTST) for Project TRANSFORM, a groundbreaking initiative advancing climate resilience, environmental sustainability, and inclusive governance.

Held in Batangas City, the two-day training aimed to equip RTST members and focal persons with advanced facilitation skills, multi-stakeholder engagement strategies, and participatory planning tools to drive the successful rollout of Project TRANSFORM across CALABARZON.

DENR CALABARZON Regional Executive Director Nilo Tamoria underscored the program’s strong foundation in Rizal province and its critical role in fostering science-based, community-led conservation efforts. He cited the linkage of Project TRANSFORM with other regional conservation milestones, such as the recent PH Eagle MOU.

Supporting the initiative, DENR Chief of Staff and Supervising Undersecretary Marilou Erni lauded CALABARZON’s pioneering efforts, emphasizing that it is the first region nationwide to organize and institutionalize RTST training under the DENR-DILG Joint Memorandum Circular No. 01, series of 2024. She also reaffirmed Project TRANSFORM’s distinction as a model for public-private partnerships and multisectoral collaboration.

Anchored on the NEXUS Approach, Resilience Framework, and Theory of Change, the training marks a strategic move toward sustaining ecosystem integrity, enhancing human well-being, and achieving inclusive economic growth.

Project TRANSFORM continues to rally local governments, communities, and partners toward a resilient and sustainable future—starting with CALABARZON leading the charge.