Comprehensive Management and Sustainability

The core mandate is to champion sustainable development in the Municipality of Paombong by:

• Formulating and ensuring the implementation of regulatory policies, strategic plans, and actionable programs focused on environmental protection, resource conservation, and pollution prevention.
• Developing and managing a comprehensive pollution control program, including Ecological Solid Waste Management (ESWM), air pollution management, and water quality management.
• Establishing and operating the Municipal Ecological Solid Waste Management System (ESWMS), which involves:
  • Overseeing the operation of the municipal composting center.
  • Coordinating with the Municipal Solid Waste Management Board to prepare the Solid Waste Management Plan.
  • Coordinating with the Municipal General Services Office for efficient garbage collection and disposal.

Legislative and Executive Support

The MENRO provides crucial support to the local government structure:

• Formulating technical measures for the consideration of the Sangguniang Bayan (Municipal Council).
• Providing technical assistance and advisory support to the Municipal Mayor in executing measures related to basic environmental services and facilities.
• Designing, planning, and implementing strategies for natural resources and environment programs that the Municipal Mayor and the Sangguniang Bayan are mandated to execute under the Local Government Code of 1991 (R.A. 7160).
• Advising and recommending to the Sangguniang Bayan and the Municipal Mayor on all aspects concerning the protection, conservation, utilization, and application of appropriate environmental technology.

Regulatory Functions and Enforcement

The Office acts as the primary enforcement arm for environmental laws:

• Issuing, renewing, or denying permits for operations, subject to reasonable conditions, to control and prevent pollution, discharges, and environmental nuisances.
• Authorizing representatives to conduct environmental inspections and investigations—without causing damage—on any public domain or private industrial, manufacturing, processing, or commercial property to check for pollution-related conditions.
• Assuming responsibility for the enforcement of the penal provisions of all pertinent national and municipal ordinances concerning environmental protection.

Cross-Sectoral and Disaster Management

• Coordinating with government agencies (including DENR) and Non-Government Organizations (NGOs) to implement measures for the prevention and control of land, air, and water pollution.
• Serving as the frontline service provider for environment and natural resources, particularly in the renewal and rehabilitation of the environment during and after human-induced and natural disasters or calamities.

Division-Specific Responsibilities

LAND MANAGEMENT DIVISION

• Focuses on the conservation and ecological balance of the municipality’s terrestrial and coastal domain.
• Ensuring the conservation and sustainability of Paombong’s land resources.
• Developing and implementing programs for ecological solid waste management, community greening (reforestation/mangrove planting), wildlife protection, and the establishment of sanctuaries.
• Promoting the development of environmentally sound methods that optimize resource utilization and promote resource recovery.

POLLUTION CONTROL, INFORMATION AND ADMINISTRATIVE DIVISION (PCOD)

• Focuses on resource quality, regulation, and public outreach.
• Ensuring the protection, preservation, and rehabilitation of freshwater resources and maintaining air quality to safeguard public health and welfare.
• Formulating an integrated water quality management framework and a comprehensive air quality management program.
• Conducting inventory and monitoring of all agricultural, commercial, industrial, and institutional establishments that discharge wastewater or air pollutants.
• Regulating the utilization of fresh water, managing the disposal of effluent, sewage, and septage, and preventing air pollution, noise, and odor nuisance.
• Enforcing all laws and policies related to environmental management and pollution control.
• Conducting research, investigation, and survey analysis to review, evaluate, and validate plans and strategies for environmental law implementation, coupled with public awareness and campaign drives.