The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Regional Office 1 awarded the Institute of Environmental Governance (IEG) of DMMMSU as the Best Environmental Partner (Academe Category) on July 15, 2024. 

This recognition highlights DMMMSU IEG’s remarkable and noteworthy contributions as a force multiplier and active partner in building a network of young green leaders through environmental action in support of the achievement of the mandate of the DENR in Region 1

Established in November 2019 alongside Tanggol Kalikasan, Inc., DMMMSU IEG addresses the growing need for environmental governance training and capacity building for local governments and stakeholders. The institute has actively participated in initiatives and served as one of the implementersof the Environmental Justice Sector Reform Program Phase 2, supported by the US Department of Interior – International Technical Assistance Program (DOI-ITAP) and the US Department of State. 

Since its establishment, DMMMSU IEG has implemented various capability-building sessions and green initiatives, including environmental governance webinars, law enforcement support, and educational programs on laws and environmental regulations. Additionally, they have undertaken green initiatives like mangrove enrichment, agroforestry projects, and spring development. Notably, eighteen (18) projects based on Area-Specific Action Plans formulated during IEG’s webinars have been implemented by Provincial Local Government Units (LGUs).

The DENR’s Gawad Kalikha-san 2024 was held on July 15, 2024, at Hotel Ariana and Restaurant, Paringao, Bauang, La Union, during the culmination of the 2024 Philippine Environment Month Celebration. Mr. Celso H. Jucutan, DMMMSU IEG Coordinator, and Prof. Desiree A.Vilar, IEG Faculty Trainer, received the award on behalf of the institute and the university. (by Celso H. Jucutan)