The Legacy of Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga’s DENR Tenure

Under Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga’s leadership, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) became more efficient and forward-thinking. Now, what can we learn from her DENR tenure? And how can we apply these traits to our daily lives?

1. Do your research.

A key initiative Yulo-Loyzaga pushed in her DENR tenure was the passing of the Philippine Ecosystem and Natural Capital Accounting System (PENCAS) Law, which helps account for the country’s natural resources in national planning. 

Like tracking your expenses or utilities, using data helps you make informed decisions. Whether you’re job-hunting, managing your health, or building a business, thorough research and development can guide you toward better outcomes. 

2. Use technology wisely.

In her DENR tenure, Yulo-Loyzaga continued her scientific and data-driven approach to policy-making. She created the agency’s geospatial database to help map and monitor the Philippines’ natural resources and ensure that they’re managed properly.

Today, we use technology not just for entertainment but to stay informed, spread awareness, and support meaningful causes. So before uploading anything, we need to ask ourselves if what we’re seeing is helpful, respectful, and true.

READ: Who’s afraid of DENR Secretary Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga?

3. Always think long-term. 

Yulo-Loyzaga launched cumulative impact assessments for the Manila Bay reclamation projects to study how all these together could affect the environment and nearby communities. This helped the DENR pause 22 projects in 2023, after the CIA showed they may worsen flooding, harm marine life, and displace local communities.

Before making big lifestyle changes—like moving houses or switching careers—it’s wise to consider their long-term effects. How will this affect your loved ones? Will your path still be sustainable in five to ten years? Keep these in mind.

4. Stand up for what’s right.

The DENR’s cancellation of the 2002 JVA with Blue Star Construction Development Corporation showed Yulo-Loyzaga’s firm stance against questionable land use. This move helped preserve the area for conservation, for the local community, and for future generations.

Even when it’s hard, things like saying “no” to peer pressure or reporting a wrongdoing at work help protect what matters most. Because when you stand up for what’s right, you defend your values, your community, and, in this case, the environment.

Yulo-Loyzaga’s DENR tenure shows us that leading well means making smart, honest, and efficient choices. So on our end, we should apply these values by staying informed, fighting for what’s right, and caring for our communities.