BY GILBERT P. BAYORAN
Two Saraviahanons were among the environmentalists from the different local governments of Negros Occidental who were honored yesterday during the Negros Occidental Governor’s Conservation Achievement Award (LCA Category) and Abanse Babaye Para sa Dunang Manggad awarding rites held at the Negros Residences in Bacolod City.
The EB Magalona Blue Crab and Bird Sanctuaries, as well as and Mangrove Reserve Conservation Area adjudged as 2nd Place in Best Local Conservation Area (LCA) Initiatives in Negros Occidental, for environmental protection and conservation.
On the other hand, the Abanse Babaye Para sa Dunang Manggad Award was also given to Ma. Eliza Paz Dioneo-Ebojo of EB Magalona, Negros Occidental for her exemplary contribution in environmental conservation, protection and rehabilitation.
“The positive impact you have made on the environment help bring greater visibility to work of women,” Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson said.
The BPI-Victorias and Sagay branches “Oplan Save Tuburan” project in EB Magalona, where Dioneo-Ebojo is presently employed, was among the five grand winners of the BPI Bayan Projects several years ago.
It was later replicated in Sitio Roma, Brgy. Batea, EB Magalona, where Dioneo-Ebojo and BPI employees organized residents in the community to protect the coastal area from erosion and siltation.
Municipal Environment Natural Resources Officer Jojo Vargas received the award for EB Magalona LGU.
The Tomongtong Mangrove Eco-Trail, which is now a popular tourist destination in EB Magalona is part of the town blue crab and bird sanctuaries and mangrove reserve conservation area.
Vargas cited the support of Mayor Marvin Malacon and the entire municipal officials for their support in the establishment of Local Conservation Area.
Lacson thanked the awardees for their dedicated service and commitment in pursuing a healthy climate resilient in Negros Occidental.*
