By Tara Yap

Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Region VI (DENR-6) Director Jim Sampulna recently discussed the role indigenous populations on Panay island play in conservation.
“Indigenous peoples are on the frontline of conserving nature because of their deep connection to the natural environment,” he explained. “Preserving the balance of the ecosystem has always been the indigenous way of life.”
Last week, a forum for indigenous people was held in Barotac Viejo, Iloilo as a precursor for the Earth Day observance, set to take place today, April 22.
DENR-6 also urged the public to ride a bike instead of drive a car during Earth Day./WDJ