Information Officers (IOs) from the Regional Strategic Communication and Initiatives Group (RSCIG) and the different Provincial ENROs and Community ENROs all over Western Visayas held their annual meeting and exposure trip on November 22-24, 2023, at Sibalom Natural Park (SNP) and Villa Valderrama Mountain Resort (VVMR) in Antique.

After years of hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the IOs once again had the opportunity to reconnect, present this year’s highlight of activities from their respective PENROs and CENROs, and discuss pressing matters for next year.

“It’s great to see everyone gather again and foster stronger connections with each other. I would like to congratulate everyone for the job well done and your continued dedication despite hectic schedules and heavy workload. There’s more work to be done next year and we need to prepare,” RSCIG Chief Artemio Salvador C. Colacion said.

DENR 6 Regional Executive Director Livino B. Duran reminded the IOs about the importance of their job and their responsibility to inform the public accurately and consistently.

“You need to always be prepared because you are the mouthpiece of our organization. The people must know the programs and projects of DENR 6. We must be visible and felt, that we are always on the move to fulfill our mandate, enforce governing laws, and protect our environment,” RED Duran expressed.

As the voices of DENR Region 6, the Information Officers were also briefed with current trends in people-to-people engagements and ensuring the satisfaction of clients visiting DENR offices.

“Good morning! Mabuhay! Always greet with a smile and let’s try our best to help our clients have smooth transactions in our offices. We are not here just to inform, but also build positive connections to the people we serve,” Chief Colacion also expressed.

Aside from the said meetings, the IOs were exposed as well to the natural wonders and conservation efforts being done at SNP and VVMR, a reforestation project site of DENR 6 turned into a tourism destination by the Local Government Unit of Valderrama, Antique.