29/06/2026
𝐃𝐄𝐍𝐑-𝟕 𝐋𝐚𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐬 “𝐁𝐚𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐢 𝐬𝐚 𝐊𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐢𝐲𝐚𝐡𝐚𝐧: 𝐊𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐛𝐮𝐡𝐢, 𝐊𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐧, 𝐮𝐠 𝐊𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐮𝐩𝐚𝐧” 𝐄𝐱𝐡𝐢𝐛𝐢𝐭 𝐚𝐭 𝐒𝐌 𝐂𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐂𝐞𝐛𝐮
CEBU CITY, June 18, 2026 – The Department of Environment and Natural Resources Region 7 (DENR-7) officially launched “Bahandi sa Kinaiyahan: Kinabuhi, Kabilin, ug Kalikupan,” a Biodiversity and Protected Area Exhibit that showcases the rich natural heritage, diverse ecosystems, and protected landscapes and seascapes of Cebu and Bohol.
Held at SM City Cebu, the four-day exhibit runs from June 18 to 21, 2026, featuring the 22 Protected Areas of Cebu and Bohol and highlighting the importance of biodiversity conservation, environmental stewardship, and sustainable development.
Anchored on the theme “Pag-ila, Pag-amuma, ug Pagpanalipod sa mga Bahandi sa Kinaiyahan sa SugBohol,” the exhibit aims to deepen public appreciation of the region’s ecological treasures and inspire collective action in protecting the environment.
The opening program was attended by key regional leaders, including Cebu Provincial Administrator Secretary Ace Durano, NRDC Executive Vice President Joel Erestain, DOT-7 Regional Director Gelena Dimpas, and Cebu City Chief of Staff Kenneth Siasar. They joined officials from DENR-7, representatives from partner agencies, local government units, environmental advocates, and students who gathered to celebrate the region’s biodiversity and conservation milestones.
Through captivating visual displays, educational materials, interactive exhibits, and stunning photographs of protected areas, visitors are given an opportunity to explore the unique ecosystems that support countless species of plants and animals, many of which are found only in the Philippines.
Regional Executive Director Laudemir S. Salac emphasized that biodiversity is not merely an environmental concern but a foundation of life, culture, and sustainable communities.
“Every protected area tells a story of life, resilience, and stewardship. Through this exhibit, we hope to strengthen public awareness that conserving biodiversity is not solely the responsibility of government agencies—it is a shared responsibility of every Filipino,” Salac said.
The exhibit highlights the ecological significance of forests, wetlands, mangrove areas, marine protected zones, watersheds, caves, and other critical habitats found across Cebu and Bohol. It also showcases ongoing conservation initiatives undertaken by DENR and its partners to protect threatened species, restore degraded ecosystems, and strengthen community participation in environmental protection.
More than an educational showcase, Bahandi sa Kinaiyahan serves as a platform for connecting people with nature and fostering a deeper understanding of how biodiversity contributes to food security, climate resilience, water resources, tourism, and local livelihoods.
Complementing the exhibit is the DENR Express on Wheels, which brings selected frontline services directly to the public. The mobile service center offers information and assistance on land, forestry, wildlife, environmental compliance, mining, and biodiversity-related concerns, reflecting DENR’s commitment to making government services more accessible and responsive.
As visitors journey through the exhibit, they are encouraged not only to admire the beauty of nature but also to become active partners in its protection. By showcasing the invaluable natural treasures of Cebu and Bohol, DENR-7 hopes to cultivate a stronger culture of environmental responsibility and inspire future generations to safeguard the country’s biodiversity.
The exhibit stands as a testament to DENR-7’s continuing commitment to environmental education, biodiversity conservation, and the protection of the nation’s natural heritage—ensuring that these precious treasures remain a source of life, pride, and inspiration for generations to come.